Tempe, AZ vs Pomona, CA: 120 vs 143

$1,623/mo ↓ 7%

Median Rent

$1,738/mo ↑ 7%

$77,643/yr ↓ 2%

Median Income

$78,869/yr ↑ 2%

$421,900 ↓ 26%

Home Value

$569,600 ↑ 35%

$1,554/mo ↓ 12%

Owner Costs

$1,758/mo ↑ 13%

186,419

Population

148,391

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Tempe, AZ and Pomona, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 120 and 143 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $115/month cheaper in Tempe, saving renters about $1,380/year.

Median household income is $1,226/year higher in Pomona. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Tempe is $421,900 compared to $569,600 in Pomona.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Tempe vs Pomona — common questions

Is Tempe or Pomona cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Tempe is cheaper to live in with an index of 120 compared to 143 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Tempe and Pomona?

Median rent in Tempe is $1,623/month and in Pomona it's $1,738/month — a difference of $115/month.

Which city has higher income, Tempe or Pomona?

Median household income is $77,643 in Tempe and $78,869 in Pomona. Median household income is $1,226/year higher in Pomona.

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 Pomona?

It depends on your priorities. Tempe has a cost index of 120 with median rent of $1,623/mo, while Pomona has a cost index of 143 with rent of $1,738/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

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

Tempe

Pomona

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

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