Philadelphia, PA vs Tucson, AZ: 85 vs 76

$1,323/mo ↑ 23%

Median Rent

$1,079/mo ↓ 18%

$60,698/yr ↑ 11%

Median Income

$54,546/yr ↓ 10%

$232,400 ↓ 4%

Home Value

$242,200 ↑ 4%

$1,233/mo ↑ 15%

Owner Costs

$1,076/mo ↓ 13%

1,582,432

Population

543,348

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Philadelphia, PA and Tucson, AZ, the overall cost of living indices are 85 and 76 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $244/month cheaper in Tucson, saving renters about $2,928/year.

Median household income is $6,152/year higher in Philadelphia. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Philadelphia is $232,400 compared to $242,200 in Tucson.

Arizona has a lower income tax rate, making Tucson slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Philadelphia vs Tucson — common questions

Is Philadelphia or Tucson cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Tucson is cheaper to live in with an index of 76 compared to 85 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Philadelphia and Tucson?

Median rent in Philadelphia is $1,323/month and in Tucson it's $1,079/month — a difference of $244/month.

Which city has higher income, Philadelphia or Tucson?

Median household income is $60,698 in Philadelphia and $54,546 in Tucson. Median household income is $6,152/year higher in Philadelphia.

How do taxes compare between Pennsylvania and Arizona?

Pennsylvania has 3.07% income tax, 6.0% sales tax, and 1.49% property tax. Arizona has 2.5% income tax, 5.6% sales tax, and 0.62% property tax.

Should I move to Philadelphia or Tucson?

It depends on your priorities. Philadelphia has a cost index of 85 with median rent of $1,323/mo, while Tucson has a cost index of 76 with rent of $1,079/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Philadelphia, PA vs Tucson, AZ (2026)

Philadelphia

Tucson

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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