Tempe, AZBest Places to Live in the U.S. in 2024

Temperatures rarely drop below freezing, but summers tend to be in the triple digits. The area is dry, with little humidity and mild rainfall. The average highs and lows are 104°F and 71°F (summer) and 68°F and 38°F (winter).

The average annual snowfall in Tempe is 0 inches. While the city may experience occasional frost or freezing temperatures during winter, snowfall is extremely rare.

The average annual rainfall in Tempe is under 10 inches and can be influenced by factors such as the El Niño or La Niña weather patterns.

Tempe averages 299 sunny days a year.

The city of Tempe has maps for self-guided history and public art walking tours that are a great way to get comfortable in the city while learning more about it. And since they’re self-guided, no one will mind when you want to stop for a drink or snack.

Tempe is a college town, and since ASU is a state university, many of its campus amenities are free to the public. The ASU Art Museum, Ceramic Research Center, Lunar Exploration Museum & NASA’s Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter Camera Operations Center Visitor Gallery, Mars Space Flight Facility, and galleries for students in design, art and more are all great places to explore.

Arizona SeaLife Aquarium and Legoland are right next to each other, and each sells a combined ticket that gets you into both attractions. Both will let your kids’ imaginations run wild while keeping the adults entertained.

All that sunshine calls Tempe residents outside. The Desert Botanical Garden in nearby Phoenix is a stunning spot to stop and smell the roses … literally. The garden features a vast collection of desert plants, including rare and endangered species. And on top of that, there are fun-filled events, light displays and educational programs all year long.

There are a few popular shopping haunts in Tempe. Mill Avenue District is a popular combination shopping and dining destination with vintage stores and boutique shops, while Arizona Mills is more geared toward those looking for outlets and discount stores.

The ambiance at Pier 54 is absolutely perfect for a fun night out. You’re outside on the water, and the sunset views are breathtaking. The menu is great for sharing, and they have an excellent dinner-for-two special that includes a complimentary bottle of wine.

The Marquee Theatre in Tempe’s business and entertainment district is a prominent venue for live music. Local music enthusiasts often praise its spacious layout and intimate atmosphere.

The folks at Infusion Coffee and Tea Crafters are serious about their coffee. They have an onsite coffee lab, a barista academy, and more than 70 coffee bean and tea varieties. Come hungry and try the Boozy Sweet or Savory Waffle.

Tempe has a diverse economy with several major industries contributing to its development, including technology, education and advanced manufacturing. Some of the largest employers include Arizona State University, State Farm Insurance and Wells Fargo.

In 2024, the sales tax rate in Tempe is 8.1%.

Yes, Arizona has a state income tax.

Tempe St. Luke’s Hospital is a full-service acute care facility with a Level III Trauma Center and comprehensive medical services.

There are several colleges and universities in Tempe, including Arizona State University, Rio Salado College and the Southwest College of Naturopathic Medicine & Health Sciences.