Virginia Beach, VA vs Tempe, AZ: 117 vs 120

$1,649/mo ↑ 2%

Median Rent

$1,623/mo ↓ 2%

$90,685/yr ↑ 17%

Median Income

$77,643/yr ↓ 14%

$366,300 ↓ 13%

Home Value

$421,900 ↑ 15%

$1,704/mo ↑ 10%

Owner Costs

$1,554/mo ↓ 9%

457,066

Population

186,419

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Virginia Beach, VA and Tempe, AZ, the overall cost of living indices are 117 and 120 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is comparable in both cities, with less than $50/month separating them.

Median household income is $13,042/year higher in Virginia Beach. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Virginia Beach is $366,300 compared to $421,900 in Tempe.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Virginia Beach vs Tempe — common questions

Is Virginia Beach or Tempe cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Virginia Beach is cheaper to live in with an index of 117 compared to 120 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Virginia Beach and Tempe?

Median rent in Virginia Beach is $1,649/month and in Tempe it's $1,623/month — a difference of $26/month.

Which city has higher income, Virginia Beach or Tempe?

Median household income is $90,685 in Virginia Beach and $77,643 in Tempe. Median household income is $13,042/year higher in Virginia Beach.

How do taxes compare between Virginia and Arizona?

Virginia has 5.75% income tax, 5.3% sales tax, and 0.8% property tax. Arizona has 2.5% income tax, 5.6% sales tax, and 0.62% property tax.

Should I move to Virginia Beach or Tempe?

It depends on your priorities. Virginia Beach has a cost index of 117 with median rent of $1,649/mo, while Tempe has a cost index of 120 with rent of $1,623/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Virginia Beach, VA vs Tempe, AZ (2026)

Virginia Beach

Tempe

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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