Tempe, AZ vs Springfield, MA: 120 vs 79

$1,623/mo ↑ 46%

Median Rent

$1,114/mo ↓ 31%

$77,643/yr ↑ 51%

Median Income

$51,339/yr ↓ 34%

$421,900 ↑ 89%

Home Value

$222,700 ↓ 47%

$1,554/mo ↑ 22%

Owner Costs

$1,276/mo ↓ 18%

186,419

Population

154,751

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Tempe, AZ and Springfield, MA, the overall cost of living indices are 120 and 79 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $509/month cheaper in Springfield, saving renters about $6,108/year.

Median household income is $26,304/year higher in Tempe. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Tempe is $421,900 compared to $222,700 in Springfield.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Tempe vs Springfield — common questions

Is Tempe or Springfield cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Springfield is cheaper to live in with an index of 79 compared to 120 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Tempe and Springfield?

Median rent in Tempe is $1,623/month and in Springfield it's $1,114/month — a difference of $509/month.

Which city has higher income, Tempe or Springfield?

Median household income is $77,643 in Tempe and $51,339 in Springfield. Median household income is $26,304/year higher in Tempe.

How do taxes compare between Arizona and Massachusetts?

Arizona has 2.5% income tax, 5.6% sales tax, and 0.62% property tax. Massachusetts has 9.0% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 1.15% property tax.

Should I move to Tempe or Springfield?

It depends on your priorities. Tempe has a cost index of 120 with median rent of $1,623/mo, while Springfield has a cost index of 79 with rent of $1,114/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Tempe, AZ vs Springfield, MA (2026)

Tempe

Springfield

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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