Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Tempe, AZ
Considering a move to Tempe, AZ? With a vibrant population of 184,118 and a median home price around $433,000, Tempe blends affordable living with urban amenities. Boasting short 22-minute average commutes and 86% sunny days, the city is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts and professionals alike. Renters make up the majority, and the local education scene shines with Arizona State University and strong public schools. While property crime rates are higher than average, Tempe offers a youthful vibe, dynamic culture, and convenient access to Phoenix metro attractions.
Demographics - Tempe, AZ
Tempe is home to about 184,000 residents, with a youthful median age of 29.7 and a diverse population where over a quarter speak a language other than English at home. The city features a balanced gender ratio and a strong mix of ethnic backgrounds, creating a vibrant and inclusive community.
Population:
184,118
Density:
4,900 per sq mi
Median Age:
29.7
Gender Ratio:
104 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
26.8%
Ethnic Composition
White:
62.3%
Black:
7.9%
Asian:
7.5%
Others:
22.3%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Tempe, AZ?
Living in Tempe comes with a cost of living index slightly above the national average at 112.2, primarily due to housing costs with a median home value of $433,000 and average rents around $1,710. Utilities and groceries are close to national rates, making overall expenses manageable for many households.
Median House Value:
$433,000
Gross Rent:
$1,710
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$145
Auto Insurance:
$1,540
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$2,050
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$610
State Taxes:
Low:
2.59%
|
High:
4.5%
Cost Of Living Index:
112.2
Grocery:
97.5
Housing:
120.3
Utilities:
102.8
Transportation:
108.2
Health Care:
98.7
Miscellaneous:
101.4
Crime
Is Tempe, AZ a safe place to live?
Tempe experiences higher property crime rates compared to national averages, with residents facing a 1 in 31 chance of property crime and a 1 in 238 chance of violent crime. While caution is advised in certain neighborhoods, the city maintains active law enforcement and community safety programs.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
421
Property Crimes Per 100k:
3,187
Crime Index:
3,608
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 238
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 31
Weather
What is the weather like in Tempe, AZ year-round?
Tempe enjoys a warm, sunny climate with 86% sunny days annually and an average rainfall of just over 9 inches. Summers are hot, often exceeding 100°F, while winters are mild and pleasant, making the city perfect for year-round outdoor activities.
Winter
Min:
41°F
Max:
68°F
Spring
Min:
54°F
Max:
87°F
Summer
Min:
78°F
Max:
106°F
Fall
Min:
61°F
Max:
89°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
9.1 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
86%
Neighbors
Tempe’s neighborhoods are characterized by a median household income of $69,800 and a high educational attainment, with nearly 93% having completed high school. Commute times average around 22 minutes, and the area benefits from a diverse, active community.
Median Income:
$38,900
Household Income:
$69,800
Family Income:
$87,200
Per Capita Income:
$36,900
Income Male:
$46,600
Income Female:
$39,200
Poverty Rate:
16.0%
Non English Speakers:
26.8%
Rent:
$1,710
Unemployment Rate:
3.6%
Public Transport Usage:
4.4%
Commute Time:
22.1 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
92.9%
Bachelors or More:
44.0%
Education
How are the schools in Tempe, AZ?
Tempe boasts a strong education system with reputable public and private schools, including Tempe High School and Kyrene de la Mariposa Elementary, and is home to large higher education institutions like Arizona State University. The city’s schools offer favorable student-to-teacher ratios and a vibrant academic environment.
Public Schools
Name:
Tempe High School
Street:
1730 S Mill Ave
Phone:
480-967-1661
Students:
1,650
Student Teacher Ratio:
18.2
Name:
Kyrene de la Mariposa Elementary
Street:
50 E Knox Rd
Phone:
480-541-3800
Students:
700
Student Teacher Ratio:
17.5
Private Schools
Name:
Our Lady of Mount Carmel School
Street:
2117 S Rural Rd
Phone:
480-967-5567
Students:
350
Colleges
Name:
Arizona State University
City:
Tempe
State:
AZ
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
55,000
Name:
Rio Salado College
City:
Tempe
State:
AZ
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
52,000
Healthcare
Residents have access to major hospitals like Banner Desert Medical Center and Tempe St. Luke’s Hospital, along with a solid network of physicians at 2.1 per 1,000 people. Health insurance coverage is high at 90.5%, ensuring most locals can access quality medical care.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Banner Desert Medical Center
Address:
1400 S Dobson Rd, Mesa, AZ 85202
Phone:
(480) 412-3000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
Tempe St. Luke’s Hospital
Address:
1500 S Mill Ave, Tempe, AZ 85281
Phone:
(480) 784-5500
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.1
Health Insurance Coverage:
90.5%
Health Care Index:
75.8
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Tempe, AZ?
The housing market in Tempe features a median home price of $433,000 and average two-bedroom rents at $1,710, with home values appreciating by over 5% in the past year. While only about 40% of homes are owner-occupied, the rental market is active and offers a variety of options.
Median Home Price:
$433,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$1,710
Owner Occupied Rate:
40.2%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
7.6%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
5.2%
New Construction Rate:
2.4%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.4%
DMV Information
Tempe residents are served by the Arizona Department of Transportation Motor Vehicle Division, conveniently located in town. Services such as licensing, registration, and title transfers are easily accessible both in-person and online.
State:
Arizona
Department:
Arizona Department of Transportation – Motor Vehicle Division
Address:
1703 E. Larkspur Lane, Tempe, AZ 85281
Phone:
602-255-0072
Website:
Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is based on publicly available sources including AccuWeather, U.S. Census Bureau, local government data, and third-party partners such as Neustar. While we strive to ensure accuracy, all data is provided “as is” and should be independently verified before making any decisions. Movers.com makes no guarantees regarding the completeness or reliability of the information.