Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
18% cheaper
Oklahoma City is 18% more affordable than Tempe. A $75,000 salary in Tempe is equivalent to $61,557 in Oklahoma City.
Index values shown. National average = 100. Lower is cheaper.
To maintain the same standard of living:
See exact take-home pay: Oklahoma salaries · Arizona salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Oklahoma City has a housing index of 68 while Tempe sits at 114 (national average = 100). The median home in Oklahoma City costs $195,000 compared to $400,000 in Tempe, a difference of $205,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $1,000 in Oklahoma City versus $1,600 in Tempe.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a notable difference: Oklahoma City scores 95 while Tempe scores 100. Both cities are close to the national average for grocery costs.
Healthcare costs in Oklahoma City (92) are lower than Tempe (95).
Median household income in Oklahoma City is $55,458 compared to $56,068 in Tempe. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Oklahoma City.
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