Tempe, AZ vs Murrieta, CA: 120 vs 175

$1,623/mo ↓ 30%

Median Rent

$2,330/mo ↑ 44%

$77,643/yr ↓ 29%

Median Income

$109,780/yr ↑ 41%

$421,900 ↓ 30%

Home Value

$606,900 ↑ 44%

$1,554/mo ↓ 35%

Owner Costs

$2,380/mo ↑ 53%

186,419

Population

111,621

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Tempe, AZ and Murrieta, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 120 and 175 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $707/month cheaper in Tempe, saving renters about $8,484/year.

Median household income is $32,137/year higher in Murrieta. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Tempe is $421,900 compared to $606,900 in Murrieta.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Tempe vs Murrieta — common questions

Is Tempe or Murrieta cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Tempe is cheaper to live in with an index of 120 compared to 175 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Tempe and Murrieta?

Median rent in Tempe is $1,623/month and in Murrieta it's $2,330/month — a difference of $707/month.

Which city has higher income, Tempe or Murrieta?

Median household income is $77,643 in Tempe and $109,780 in Murrieta. Median household income is $32,137/year higher in Murrieta.

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 Murrieta?

It depends on your priorities. Tempe has a cost index of 120 with median rent of $1,623/mo, while Murrieta has a cost index of 175 with rent of $2,330/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

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

Tempe

Murrieta

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

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