Tempe, AZ vs Lancaster, CA: 120 vs 124

$1,623/mo ↓ 4%

Median Rent

$1,696/mo ↑ 4%

$77,643/yr ↑ 2%

Median Income

$76,083/yr ↓ 2%

$421,900 ↑ 3%

Home Value

$409,100 ↓ 3%

$1,554/mo ↓ 11%

Owner Costs

$1,746/mo ↑ 12%

186,419

Population

170,013

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Tempe, AZ and Lancaster, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 120 and 124 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $73/month cheaper in Tempe, saving renters about $876/year.

Median household income is $1,560/year higher in Tempe. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Tempe is $421,900 compared to $409,100 in Lancaster.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Tempe vs Lancaster — common questions

Is Tempe or Lancaster cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Tempe is cheaper to live in with an index of 120 compared to 124 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Tempe and Lancaster?

Median rent in Tempe is $1,623/month and in Lancaster it's $1,696/month — a difference of $73/month.

Which city has higher income, Tempe or Lancaster?

Median household income is $77,643 in Tempe and $76,083 in Lancaster. Median household income is $1,560/year higher in Tempe.

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 Lancaster?

It depends on your priorities. Tempe has a cost index of 120 with median rent of $1,623/mo, while Lancaster has a cost index of 124 with rent of $1,696/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

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

Tempe

Lancaster

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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