Tempe vs Gilbert
Compare these two popular Phoenix neighborhoods side-by-side.Gilbert is more affordable with 2BR rents at $1,600/mo.
Tempe
College town, energetic, young
2BR Rent$1,700/mo
62
Walk
52
Transit
68
Bike
Gilbert
MORE AFFORDABLESuburban, family-oriented, growing
2BR Rent$1,600/mo
35
Walk
28
Transit
48
Bike
Rent Price Comparison
Monthly rent by bedroom type
| Unit Type | Tempe | Gilbert | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio | $950 | $900 | +$50(+5.6%) |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,200 | $1,200 | $0(0.0%) |
| 2 Bedroom | $1,700 | $1,600 | +$100(+6.3%) |
| 3 Bedroom | $2,300 | $2,200 | +$100(+4.5%) |
Which Neighborhood Wins?
affordability
Gilbert
Average rent is $50/mo higher
transit
Tempe
Transit score: 52 vs 28
walkability
Tempe
Walk score: 62 vs 35
nightlife
Tempe
Very active
families
Gilbert
Top-rated public schools
young Professionals
Tempe
College town, energetic, young
commute
Tempe
15-25 min to downtown
Tempe Overview
College town home to ASU with Mill Avenue entertainment, Tempe Town Lake, and young energy.
Best For
StudentsYoung professionalsActive lifestylesBudget-conscious
Pros
- +Affordable
- +Active scene
- +Light rail
- +Lake access
Cons
- -Student-heavy
- -Noisy areas
- -Hot summers
- -Parking difficult near ASU
Safety
Good
Commute
15-25 min
Nightlife
Very active - college bars, clubs, Mill Avenue
Schools
Good public schools, ASU
Gilbert Overview
Fast-growing suburban town southeast of Phoenix with excellent schools, family focus, and modern development.
Best For
Families with kidsSchool quality seekersSafe suburbsSpace seekers
Pros
- +Best schools in area
- +Very safe
- +Affordable
- +Family amenities
Cons
- -Very car-dependent
- -Far from downtown
- -Cookie-cutter
- -Hot summers
Safety
Excellent
Commute
30-45 min
Nightlife
Minimal - family-focused
Schools
Top-rated public schools
Key Takeaways: Tempe vs Gilbert
- Affordability: Gilbert offers lower rents with 2BR averaging $1,600/mo compared to $1,700/mo.
- Walkability: Tempe has the edge with a Walk Score of 62.
- Transit: Tempe offers better public transit access (Transit Score: 52).
- Commute: Tempe (15-25 min) vsGilbert (30-45 min) to downtown.
Which Neighborhood is Right for You?
Tempe is ideal for students and young professionals, offering college town, energetic, young vibes. Gilbert suits families with kids and school quality seekers, known for its suburban, family-oriented, growing atmosphere.