Tempe, AZ vs Carlsbad, CA: 120 vs 253

$1,623/mo ↓ 39%

Median Rent

$2,678/mo ↑ 65%

$77,643/yr ↓ 44%

Median Income

$139,326/yr ↑ 79%

$421,900 ↓ 64%

Home Value

$1,156,900 ↑ 174%

$1,554/mo ↓ 45%

Owner Costs

$2,801/mo ↑ 80%

186,419

Population

114,500

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Tempe, AZ and Carlsbad, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 120 and 253 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $1,055/month cheaper in Tempe, saving renters about $12,660/year.

Median household income is $61,683/year higher in Carlsbad. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Tempe is $421,900 compared to $1,156,900 in Carlsbad.

Arizona has a lower income tax rate, making Tempe slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Tempe vs Carlsbad — common questions

Is Tempe or Carlsbad cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Tempe is cheaper to live in with an index of 120 compared to 253 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Tempe and Carlsbad?

Median rent in Tempe is $1,623/month and in Carlsbad it's $2,678/month — a difference of $1,055/month.

Which city has higher income, Tempe or Carlsbad?

Median household income is $77,643 in Tempe and $139,326 in Carlsbad. Median household income is $61,683/year higher in Carlsbad.

How do taxes compare between Arizona and California?

Arizona has 2.5% income tax, 5.6% sales tax, and 0.62% property tax. California has 13.3% income tax, 7.25% sales tax, and 0.71% property tax.

Should I move to Tempe or Carlsbad?

It depends on your priorities. Tempe has a cost index of 120 with median rent of $1,623/mo, while Carlsbad has a cost index of 253 with rent of $2,678/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Tempe, AZ vs Carlsbad, CA (2026)

Tempe

Carlsbad

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

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