Tempe, AZ vs Fairfield, CA: 120 vs 167

$1,623/mo ↓ 26%

Median Rent

$2,191/mo ↑ 35%

$77,643/yr ↓ 24%

Median Income

$102,321/yr ↑ 32%

$421,900 ↓ 29%

Home Value

$592,500 ↑ 40%

$1,554/mo ↓ 30%

Owner Costs

$2,226/mo ↑ 43%

186,419

Population

119,985

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Tempe, AZ and Fairfield, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 120 and 167 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $568/month cheaper in Tempe, saving renters about $6,816/year.

Median household income is $24,678/year higher in Fairfield. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Tempe is $421,900 compared to $592,500 in Fairfield.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Tempe vs Fairfield — common questions

Is Tempe or Fairfield cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Tempe is cheaper to live in with an index of 120 compared to 167 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Tempe and Fairfield?

Median rent in Tempe is $1,623/month and in Fairfield it's $2,191/month — a difference of $568/month.

Which city has higher income, Tempe or Fairfield?

Median household income is $77,643 in Tempe and $102,321 in Fairfield. Median household income is $24,678/year higher in Fairfield.

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 Fairfield?

It depends on your priorities. Tempe has a cost index of 120 with median rent of $1,623/mo, while Fairfield has a cost index of 167 with rent of $2,191/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

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

Tempe

Fairfield

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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