Tucson, AZ

Below Avg · 76

Arizona · Population 543,348 · Updated March 2026

$1,079
Median Rent / Month
$54,546
Median Income
$242,200
Median Home Value
$1,076
Owner Costs / Month

Affordability

How far your income goes in Tucson

23.7%
Rent-to-Income Ratio
Affordable
Rent takes less than 25% of median income — considered affordable by HUD standards.

Tax Burden in Arizona

State-level tax rates that affect your costs

2.5%
Income Tax (Top Rate)
5.6%
Sales Tax
0.62%
Property Tax Rate

Estimated Annual Costs

$12,948
Annual Rent
$1,364
State Income Tax
$1,502
Property Tax (est.)

Cost of Living Overview

Tucson is significantly cheaper than the national average, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious individuals and families. With a cost index of 76 (where 100 equals the national median), Tucson residents can expect to pay median rent of $1,079/month while earning a median household income of $54,546/year.

The median home value in Tucson, AZ is $242,200, with typical monthly owner costs around $1,076 including mortgage, insurance, and taxes. The median rent-to-income ratio of 23.7% means housing is relatively affordable here — well below the 30% threshold that HUD considers cost-burdened.

Arizona has a moderate income tax rate of 2.5%. Combined with a 5.6% sales tax rate and 0.62% effective property tax rate, the overall tax environment is a factor in the total cost of living in Tucson.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about living costs in Tucson

What is the cost of living in Tucson, AZ?
The cost of living index in Tucson, AZ is 76 (US average = 100). Median monthly rent is $1,079, median household income is $54,546/year, and the median home value is $242,200.
Is Tucson, AZ affordable?
Yes, Tucson is more affordable than the national average with a cost index of 76. The rent-to-income ratio is 23.7%—below the 30%% threshold considered affordable by HUD.
What is the average rent in Tucson, AZ?
The median gross rent in Tucson, AZ is $1,079 per month according to the US Census Bureau ACS 2023 data. Annual rent costs approximately $12,948.
What is the median household income in Tucson?
The median household income in Tucson, AZ is $54,546 per year. This compares to the national median of approximately $80,000.
What are the taxes like in Arizona?
Arizona has a top income tax rate of 2.5%, a sales tax of 5.6%, and an effective property tax rate of 0.62%.

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