Tempe, AZ vs Ontario, CA: 120 vs 152

$1,623/mo ↓ 15%

Median Rent

$1,916/mo ↑ 18%

$77,643/yr ↓ 6%

Median Income

$82,806/yr ↑ 7%

$421,900 ↓ 26%

Home Value

$568,000 ↑ 35%

$1,554/mo ↓ 21%

Owner Costs

$1,967/mo ↑ 27%

186,419

Population

178,347

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Tempe, AZ and Ontario, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 120 and 152 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $293/month cheaper in Tempe, saving renters about $3,516/year.

Median household income is $5,163/year higher in Ontario. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Tempe is $421,900 compared to $568,000 in Ontario.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Tempe vs Ontario — common questions

Is Tempe or Ontario cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Tempe is cheaper to live in with an index of 120 compared to 152 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Tempe and Ontario?

Median rent in Tempe is $1,623/month and in Ontario it's $1,916/month — a difference of $293/month.

Which city has higher income, Tempe or Ontario?

Median household income is $77,643 in Tempe and $82,806 in Ontario. Median household income is $5,163/year higher in Ontario.

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 Ontario?

It depends on your priorities. Tempe has a cost index of 120 with median rent of $1,623/mo, while Ontario has a cost index of 152 with rent of $1,916/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

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

Tempe

Ontario

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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