Tempe, AZ vs Salem, OR: 120 vs 105

$1,623/mo ↑ 23%

Median Rent

$1,323/mo ↓ 18%

$77,643/yr ↑ 8%

Median Income

$71,900/yr ↓ 7%

$421,900 ↑ 10%

Home Value

$382,400 ↓ 9%

$1,554/mo ↑ 8%

Owner Costs

$1,440/mo ↓ 7%

186,419

Population

176,666

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Tempe, AZ and Salem, OR, the overall cost of living indices are 120 and 105 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $300/month cheaper in Salem, saving renters about $3,600/year.

Median household income is $5,743/year higher in Tempe. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Tempe is $421,900 compared to $382,400 in Salem.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Tempe vs Salem — common questions

Is Tempe or Salem cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Salem is cheaper to live in with an index of 105 compared to 120 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Tempe and Salem?

Median rent in Tempe is $1,623/month and in Salem it's $1,323/month — a difference of $300/month.

Which city has higher income, Tempe or Salem?

Median household income is $77,643 in Tempe and $71,900 in Salem. Median household income is $5,743/year higher in Tempe.

How do taxes compare between Arizona and Oregon?

Arizona has 2.5% income tax, 5.6% sales tax, and 0.62% property tax. Oregon has 9.9% income tax, 0% sales tax, and 0.93% property tax.

Should I move to Tempe or Salem?

It depends on your priorities. Tempe has a cost index of 120 with median rent of $1,623/mo, while Salem has a cost index of 105 with rent of $1,323/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Tempe, AZ vs Salem, OR (2026)

Tempe

Salem

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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