Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
36% cheaper
Tempe is 36% more affordable than Los Angeles. A $75,000 salary in Los Angeles is equivalent to $47,892 in Tempe.
Index values shown. National average = 100. Lower is cheaper.
To maintain the same standard of living:
See exact take-home pay: California salaries · Arizona salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Los Angeles has a housing index of 262 while Tempe sits at 114 (national average = 100). The median home in Los Angeles costs $850,000 compared to $400,000 in Tempe, a difference of $450,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $2,700 in Los Angeles versus $1,600 in Tempe.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a notable difference: Los Angeles scores 107 while Tempe scores 100.
Healthcare costs in Los Angeles (103) are higher than Tempe (95). Both are close to the national average.
Median household income in Los Angeles is $65,290 compared to $56,068 in Tempe. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Tempe.
Amazon affiliate links