Tempe, AZ vs Elk Grove, CA: 120 vs 168

$1,623/mo ↓ 26%

Median Rent

$2,180/mo ↑ 34%

$77,643/yr ↓ 36%

Median Income

$122,229/yr ↑ 57%

$421,900 ↓ 30%

Home Value

$603,400 ↑ 43%

$1,554/mo ↓ 30%

Owner Costs

$2,227/mo ↑ 43%

186,419

Population

177,221

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Tempe, AZ and Elk Grove, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 120 and 168 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $557/month cheaper in Tempe, saving renters about $6,684/year.

Median household income is $44,586/year higher in Elk Grove. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Tempe is $421,900 compared to $603,400 in Elk Grove.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Tempe vs Elk Grove — common questions

Is Tempe or Elk Grove cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Tempe is cheaper to live in with an index of 120 compared to 168 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Tempe and Elk Grove?

Median rent in Tempe is $1,623/month and in Elk Grove it's $2,180/month — a difference of $557/month.

Which city has higher income, Tempe or Elk Grove?

Median household income is $77,643 in Tempe and $122,229 in Elk Grove. Median household income is $44,586/year higher in Elk Grove.

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 Elk Grove?

It depends on your priorities. Tempe has a cost index of 120 with median rent of $1,623/mo, while Elk Grove has a cost index of 168 with rent of $2,180/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

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

Tempe

Elk Grove

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

More Comparisons