Wichita, KS vs Tempe, AZ: 65 vs 120

$960/mo ↓ 41%

Median Rent

$1,623/mo ↑ 69%

$63,072/yr ↓ 19%

Median Income

$77,643/yr ↑ 23%

$179,500 ↓ 57%

Home Value

$421,900 ↑ 135%

$994/mo ↓ 36%

Owner Costs

$1,554/mo ↑ 56%

396,488

Population

186,419

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Wichita, KS and Tempe, AZ, the overall cost of living indices are 65 and 120 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $663/month cheaper in Wichita, saving renters about $7,956/year.

Median household income is $14,571/year higher in Tempe. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Wichita is $179,500 compared to $421,900 in Tempe.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Wichita vs Tempe — common questions

Is Wichita or Tempe cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Wichita is cheaper to live in with an index of 65 compared to 120 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Wichita and Tempe?

Median rent in Wichita is $960/month and in Tempe it's $1,623/month — a difference of $663/month.

Which city has higher income, Wichita or Tempe?

Median household income is $63,072 in Wichita and $77,643 in Tempe. Median household income is $14,571/year higher in Tempe.

How do taxes compare between Kansas and Arizona?

Kansas has 5.7% income tax, 6.5% sales tax, and 1.41% property tax. Arizona has 2.5% income tax, 5.6% sales tax, and 0.62% property tax.

Should I move to Wichita or Tempe?

It depends on your priorities. Wichita has a cost index of 65 with median rent of $960/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: Wichita, KS vs Tempe, AZ (2026)

Wichita

Tempe

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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