Scottsdale, AZ vs Tempe, AZ: Cost of Living Comparison
Tempe has the lower overall cost of living. (100 = US national average)
Category-by-Category Comparison
| Category | Scottsdale | Tempe | Cheaper |
|---|---|---|---|
| Overall cost of living | 160 | 112 | Tempe |
| Housing | 204 ($1,337) | 121 ($1,136) | Tempe |
| Transportation | 100 ($3.50) | 104 ($3.50) | Scottsdale |
| Food & groceries | 144 ($590) | 104 ($426) | Tempe |
| Utilities | 152 ($367) | 111 ($218) | Tempe |
| Healthcare | 152 ($265) | 111 ($157) | Tempe |
| Median annual wage | 103 ($50,060) | 103 ($50,060) | Tie |
Index 100 = US national average. Lower = cheaper. For wage, higher = better.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Scottsdale, AZ or Tempe, AZ cheaper to live in?
Tempe, AZ is cheaper overall by about 48 index points (Scottsdale, AZ: 160, Tempe, AZ: 112; 100 = US national average).
What salary do I need in Scottsdale, AZ vs Tempe, AZ?
A single adult needs roughly $56,000/year in Scottsdale, AZ and $39,200/year in Tempe, AZ to cover basic living costs.