Worcester, MA vs Tempe, AZ: 104 vs 120

$1,415/mo ↓ 13%

Median Rent

$1,623/mo ↑ 15%

$67,544/yr ↓ 13%

Median Income

$77,643/yr ↑ 15%

$339,500 ↓ 20%

Home Value

$421,900 ↑ 24%

$1,521/mo ↓ 2%

Owner Costs

$1,554/mo ↑ 2%

205,501

Population

186,419

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Worcester, MA and Tempe, AZ, the overall cost of living indices are 104 and 120 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $208/month cheaper in Worcester, saving renters about $2,496/year.

Median household income is $10,099/year higher in Tempe. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Worcester is $339,500 compared to $421,900 in Tempe.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Worcester vs Tempe — common questions

Is Worcester or Tempe cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Worcester is cheaper to live in with an index of 104 compared to 120 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Worcester and Tempe?

Median rent in Worcester is $1,415/month and in Tempe it's $1,623/month — a difference of $208/month.

Which city has higher income, Worcester or Tempe?

Median household income is $67,544 in Worcester and $77,643 in Tempe. Median household income is $10,099/year higher in Tempe.

How do taxes compare between Massachusetts and Arizona?

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

Should I move to Worcester or Tempe?

It depends on your priorities. Worcester has a cost index of 104 with median rent of $1,415/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: Worcester, MA vs Tempe, AZ (2026)

Worcester

Tempe

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

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