Tempe, AZ
Population 186,419 · Arizona
About Tempe, AZ
Tempe is a major city located in Arizona with a population of 186,419 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $77,643 per year, which is 3% above the national median of $75,149. The median age of 29.9 years is notably younger the US median age of 38.9 years, indicating a younger, often more dynamic population base.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Tempe features a median home value of $421,900, which is 72% above the national median of $244,900. This places Tempe in a higher-cost housing market, where property demand often outpaces supply. Median monthly rent is $1,623, 40% above the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 84,664 total housing units, 42% are owner-occupied (32,030 units) and 58% are renter-occupied (45,023 units). The higher proportion of renters may reflect a transient population, younger demographics, or high housing costs relative to income.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Tempe shows an unemployment rate of 5.6%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 16.2%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Tempe have an average one-way commute time of 21.4 minutes.
Education & Demographics
49.5% of Tempe residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. This significantly higher educational attainment rate often correlates with access to knowledge-economy jobs and higher household incomes. The community's demographic composition includes 18.3% White, 4.8% Hispanic or Latino, 0.6% Black or African American, and 3.8% Asian residents, with 13.8% of the population being foreign-born.
Climate & Weather
Tempe experiences an annual average temperature of 74.5°F with 9.28" of precipitation per year. The warm climate makes it appealing for those who prefer mild winters and plenty of sunshine. Summer highs average around 109°F (July–August), while winter lows dip to approximately 43°F (December–January).
How Tempe Ranks in Arizona
Cost of Living in Tempe, AZ
Compared to national averages, Tempe has a median household income of $77,643 (3% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $421,900, which is 72% above the national median. Monthly rent at $1,623 is 40% above the US average of $1,163. Within Arizona, Tempe's income is 25% above the state average of $62,086, and home values are 78% above the state median of $237,048.
Why Live in Tempe, AZ?
Tempe offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $77,643, well above the national average, and a well-educated community where 49.5% of residents hold a bachelor’s degree or higher, and short commute times averaging just 21.4 minutes.
Potential considerations include a competitive housing market where the typical home costs $421,900. However, as a major city, Tempe provides access to a wide range of amenities and services.
Tempe has a population of 186,419 with a median age of 29.9 years. Compare Tempe with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Arizona.
Similar Cities Near Tempe
Cities in Arizona with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Peoria | 194,338 | $93,403 | $429,400 | Compare |
| Surprise | 149,519 | $93,371 | $396,000 | Compare |
| Scottsdale | 242,169 | $107,372 | $709,900 | Compare |
| Glendale | 250,193 | $70,139 | $347,000 | Compare |
| San Tan Valley | 105,231 | $93,642 | $365,900 | Compare |
| Goodyear | 102,891 | $101,814 | $441,900 | Compare |
| Gilbert | 271,118 | $121,351 | $518,600 | Compare |
| Buckeye | 99,844 | $98,778 | $384,100 | Compare |
Demographics
Racial & Ethnic Composition
Economy & Education
Housing
Climate & Weather in Tempe
| Month | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| High °F | 61 | 66 | 71 | 88 | 94 | 101 | 112 | 106 | 100 | 92 | 78 | 69 |
| Low °F | 41 | 43 | 47 | 59 | 69 | 73 | 88 | 84 | 73 | 65 | 54 | 46 |
| Rain " | 2.2 | 1.4 | 1.9 | 0.0 | 0.0 | 0.0 | 0.0 | 0.7 | 0.4 | 0.0 | 1.0 | 1.7 |
Other Cities in Arizona
Data source: US Census Bureau ACS 5-Year Estimates. Last updated: 2026-04-05.
Compare Tempe With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Tempe
What is the population of Tempe, AZ?
The population of Tempe, AZ is 186,419 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a major city in Arizona.
What is the median household income in Tempe?
The median household income in Tempe, AZ is $77,643 per year, which is 3% above the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Tempe?
The median home value in Tempe, AZ is $421,900, which is 72% above the national median of $244,900. A significant portion of residents rent their homes.
What is the average rent in Tempe?
The median monthly rent in Tempe, AZ is $1,623, which is 40% above the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Tempe?
The unemployment rate in Tempe, AZ is 5.6%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Tempe, AZ a good place to live?
Tempe offers above-average incomes, a competitive housing market, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 186,419 and a median age of 29.9, the city appeals to young professionals and families.
How educated is Tempe, AZ?
49.5% of residents in Tempe aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. This above-average educational attainment often reflects a knowledge-based local economy.
What is the cost of living in Tempe?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Tempe, AZ: median home value is $421,900 (72% above national), median rent is $1,623/month, and median household income is $77,643. The home-value-to-income ratio is 5.4x, a moderate figure by national standards.
What is the poverty rate in Tempe?
The poverty rate in Tempe, AZ is 16.2%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. Residents and prospective movers should be aware of the economic challenges facing parts of this community.
How diverse is Tempe, AZ?
Tempe's population is 18.3% White, 4.8% Hispanic or Latino, 0.6% Black or African American, 3.8% Asian, and 7.4% two or more races. 13.8% of residents are foreign-born.