Tempe, AZ vs Lowell, MA: 120 vs 119

$1,623/mo ↑ 1%

Median Rent

$1,603/mo ↓ 1%

$77,643/yr ↑ 2%

Median Income

$76,205/yr ↓ 2%

$421,900 ↑ 7%

Home Value

$395,100 ↓ 6%

$1,554/mo ↓ 7%

Owner Costs

$1,672/mo ↑ 8%

186,419

Population

114,799

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Tempe, AZ and Lowell, MA, the overall cost of living indices are 120 and 119 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is comparable in both cities, with less than $50/month separating them.

Median household income is $1,438/year higher in Tempe. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Tempe is $421,900 compared to $395,100 in Lowell.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Tempe vs Lowell — common questions

Is Tempe or Lowell cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Lowell is cheaper to live in with an index of 119 compared to 120 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Tempe and Lowell?

Median rent in Tempe is $1,623/month and in Lowell it's $1,603/month — a difference of $20/month.

Which city has higher income, Tempe or Lowell?

Median household income is $77,643 in Tempe and $76,205 in Lowell. Median household income is $1,438/year higher in Tempe.

How do taxes compare between Arizona and Massachusetts?

Arizona has 2.5% income tax, 5.6% sales tax, and 0.62% property tax. Massachusetts has 9.0% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 1.15% property tax.

Should I move to Tempe or Lowell?

It depends on your priorities. Tempe has a cost index of 120 with median rent of $1,623/mo, while Lowell has a cost index of 119 with rent of $1,603/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Tempe, AZ vs Lowell, MA (2026)

Tempe

Lowell

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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