Tempe, AZ vs Lakewood, CO: 120 vs 141

$1,623/mo ↓ 7%

Median Rent

$1,746/mo ↑ 8%

$77,643/yr ↓ 9%

Median Income

$85,789/yr ↑ 10%

$421,900 ↓ 23%

Home Value

$548,200 ↑ 30%

$1,554/mo ↓ 10%

Owner Costs

$1,729/mo ↑ 11%

186,419

Population

156,309

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Tempe, AZ and Lakewood, CO, the overall cost of living indices are 120 and 141 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $123/month cheaper in Tempe, saving renters about $1,476/year.

Median household income is $8,146/year higher in Lakewood. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Tempe is $421,900 compared to $548,200 in Lakewood.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Tempe vs Lakewood — common questions

Is Tempe or Lakewood cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Tempe is cheaper to live in with an index of 120 compared to 141 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Tempe and Lakewood?

Median rent in Tempe is $1,623/month and in Lakewood it's $1,746/month — a difference of $123/month.

Which city has higher income, Tempe or Lakewood?

Median household income is $77,643 in Tempe and $85,789 in Lakewood. Median household income is $8,146/year higher in Lakewood.

How do taxes compare between Arizona and Colorado?

Arizona has 2.5% income tax, 5.6% sales tax, and 0.62% property tax. Colorado has 4.4% income tax, 2.9% sales tax, and 0.51% property tax.

Should I move to Tempe or Lakewood?

It depends on your priorities. Tempe has a cost index of 120 with median rent of $1,623/mo, while Lakewood has a cost index of 141 with rent of $1,746/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Tempe, AZ vs Lakewood, CO (2026)

Tempe

Lakewood

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

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