Tempe, AZ vs Bellevue, WA: 120 vs 250

$1,623/mo ↓ 35%

Median Rent

$2,505/mo ↑ 54%

$77,643/yr ↓ 52%

Median Income

$161,300/yr ↑ 108%

$421,900 ↓ 65%

Home Value

$1,203,100 ↑ 185%

$1,554/mo ↓ 40%

Owner Costs

$2,586/mo ↑ 66%

186,419

Population

151,199

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Tempe, AZ and Bellevue, WA, the overall cost of living indices are 120 and 250 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $882/month cheaper in Tempe, saving renters about $10,584/year.

Median household income is $83,657/year higher in Bellevue. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Tempe is $421,900 compared to $1,203,100 in Bellevue.

Washington has no state income tax, giving Bellevue residents a significant tax advantage over Arizona's 2.5% rate.

Frequently Asked Questions

Tempe vs Bellevue — common questions

Is Tempe or Bellevue cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Tempe is cheaper to live in with an index of 120 compared to 250 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Tempe and Bellevue?

Median rent in Tempe is $1,623/month and in Bellevue it's $2,505/month — a difference of $882/month.

Which city has higher income, Tempe or Bellevue?

Median household income is $77,643 in Tempe and $161,300 in Bellevue. Median household income is $83,657/year higher in Bellevue.

How do taxes compare between Arizona and Washington?

Arizona has 2.5% income tax, 5.6% sales tax, and 0.62% property tax. Washington has 0% income tax, 6.5% sales tax, and 0.92% property tax.

Should I move to Tempe or Bellevue?

It depends on your priorities. Tempe has a cost index of 120 with median rent of $1,623/mo, while Bellevue has a cost index of 250 with rent of $2,505/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Tempe, AZ vs Bellevue, WA (2026)

Tempe

Bellevue

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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