Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
30% cheaper
Tempe is 30% more affordable than Seattle. A $75,000 salary in Seattle is equivalent to $52,303 in Tempe.
Index values shown. National average = 100. Lower is cheaper.
To maintain the same standard of living:
See exact take-home pay: Washington salaries · Arizona salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Seattle has a housing index of 224 while Tempe sits at 114 (national average = 100). The median home in Seattle costs $750,000 compared to $400,000 in Tempe, a difference of $350,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $2,300 in Seattle versus $1,600 in Tempe.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a notable difference: Seattle scores 109 while Tempe scores 100.
Healthcare costs in Seattle (109) are higher than Tempe (95).
Median household income in Seattle is $97,185 compared to $56,068 in Tempe. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Tempe.
Amazon affiliate links