Tempe, AZ vs Metairie, LA: 120 vs 88

$1,623/mo ↑ 40%

Median Rent

$1,159/mo ↓ 29%

$77,643/yr ↑ 6%

Median Income

$73,256/yr ↓ 6%

$421,900 ↑ 37%

Home Value

$308,900 ↓ 27%

$1,554/mo ↑ 31%

Owner Costs

$1,186/mo ↓ 24%

186,419

Population

138,995

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Tempe, AZ and Metairie, LA, the overall cost of living indices are 120 and 88 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $464/month cheaper in Metairie, saving renters about $5,568/year.

Median household income is $4,387/year higher in Tempe. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Tempe is $421,900 compared to $308,900 in Metairie.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Tempe vs Metairie — common questions

Is Tempe or Metairie cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Metairie is cheaper to live in with an index of 88 compared to 120 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Tempe and Metairie?

Median rent in Tempe is $1,623/month and in Metairie it's $1,159/month — a difference of $464/month.

Which city has higher income, Tempe or Metairie?

Median household income is $77,643 in Tempe and $73,256 in Metairie. Median household income is $4,387/year higher in Tempe.

How do taxes compare between Arizona and Louisiana?

Arizona has 2.5% income tax, 5.6% sales tax, and 0.62% property tax. Louisiana has 4.25% income tax, 4.45% sales tax, and 0.55% property tax.

Should I move to Tempe or Metairie?

It depends on your priorities. Tempe has a cost index of 120 with median rent of $1,623/mo, while Metairie has a cost index of 88 with rent of $1,159/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Tempe, AZ vs Metairie, LA (2026)

Tempe

Metairie

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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