Tempe, AZ vs Downey, CA: 120 vs 169

$1,623/mo ↓ 14%

Median Rent

$1,892/mo ↑ 17%

$77,643/yr ↓ 11%

Median Income

$87,400/yr ↑ 13%

$421,900 ↓ 42%

Home Value

$728,500 ↑ 73%

$1,554/mo ↓ 22%

Owner Costs

$1,997/mo ↑ 29%

186,419

Population

111,793

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Tempe, AZ and Downey, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 120 and 169 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $269/month cheaper in Tempe, saving renters about $3,228/year.

Median household income is $9,757/year higher in Downey. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Tempe is $421,900 compared to $728,500 in Downey.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Tempe vs Downey — common questions

Is Tempe or Downey cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Tempe is cheaper to live in with an index of 120 compared to 169 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Tempe and Downey?

Median rent in Tempe is $1,623/month and in Downey it's $1,892/month — a difference of $269/month.

Which city has higher income, Tempe or Downey?

Median household income is $77,643 in Tempe and $87,400 in Downey. Median household income is $9,757/year higher in Downey.

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 Downey?

It depends on your priorities. Tempe has a cost index of 120 with median rent of $1,623/mo, while Downey has a cost index of 169 with rent of $1,892/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

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

Tempe

Downey

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

More Comparisons