Is Tempe, AZ a Good Place to Live in 2024?

What is Tempe, AZ known for?

Tempe is located in Maricopa County, Arizona, adjacent to Phoenix. The city is a melting pot of vibrant college life thanks to a major university, outdoor recreational activities like kayaking on Tempe Town Lake, and a technology-driven job market. It's also a hotspot for indie music and festivals.

Tempe leans moderately liberal, as evidenced by its diverse population, various racial groups, and an LGBTQ+ friendly environment. Minority communities are increasingly visible, actively participating in local politics and social causes.

Couples can enjoy paddleboarding on Tempe Town Lake or a romantic walk through the Arboretum. Students revel in a lively campus culture that spills into the city. For families, top-rated schools and kid-friendly parks are abundant. Retirees can soak up the sun year-round and participate in senior community events. Singles will be full of bar-hopping or outdoor adventure options. Regardless of one's background, belief, or gender, Tempe provides an inclusive atmosphere, offering many cultural events year-round.

Highlights

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Pros and Cons

The Pros of living in Tempe, AZ, include recreation, job opportunities, education, and more. While some Cons are around heat, traffic, and cost of living.
Read more in Pros and Cons.

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Safety and Crime

Tempe, AZ is ranked 219th out of the top 333 most populated cities in the US for highest overall safety, is ranked 188th on safety from violent crime, and 282nd on safety from property crime.
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Cost of Living

Compared to the rest of the US, the cost of living in Tempe, AZ is 16% lower than the national average.
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Discretionary Income

A gross annual salary of $80,000 in Tempe, AZ leaves $1,866 of “money in the pocket” per month on average.
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Climate and Weather

The average daily temperature in Tempe, AZ in January is 56°F and 94°F in July. Compared to the rest of the 333 most populated cities in the US, this city is on average +13°F warmer in January and is on average +15°F warmer in July.
Read more in Climate and Weather.

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Politics and Voting

Tempe, AZ voted for the Democrat party in the 2020 Presidential election, with 50.3% of the votes counted going to this party.
Read more in Politics and Voting.