Cost of Living: Phoenix, AZ vs Tucson, AZ (2026)

Phoenix

Arizona
109
VS

Tucson

Arizona
76

Phoenix is 43% more expensive than Tucson.

$1,458/mo ↑ 35%
Median Rent
$1,079/mo ↓ 26%
$77,041/yr ↑ 41%
Median Income
$54,546/yr ↓ 29%
$381,900 ↑ 58%
Home Value
$242,200 ↓ 37%
$1,430/mo ↑ 33%
Owner Costs
$1,076/mo ↓ 25%
1,624,832
Population
543,348

Tax Comparison

2.5%
Income Tax
2.5%
5.6%
State Sales Tax
5.6%
0.62%
Property Tax
0.62%

Affordability

22.7%
rent-to-income
Affordability
23.7%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Phoenix, AZ and Tucson, AZ, the overall cost of living indices are 109 and 76 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $379/month cheaper in Tucson, saving renters about $4,548/year.

Median household income is $22,495/year higher in Phoenix. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Phoenix is $381,900 compared to $242,200 in Tucson.

Both cities share the same state tax structure since they are in Arizona.

Frequently Asked Questions

Phoenix vs Tucson — common questions

Is Phoenix or Tucson cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Tucson is cheaper to live in with an index of 76 compared to 109 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Phoenix and Tucson?
Median rent in Phoenix is $1,458/month and in Tucson it's $1,079/month — a difference of $379/month.
Which city has higher income, Phoenix or Tucson?
Median household income is $77,041 in Phoenix and $54,546 in Tucson. Median household income is $22,495/year higher in Phoenix.
How do taxes compare between Arizona and Arizona?
Both cities are in Arizona and share the same state tax rates: 2.5% income tax, 5.6% sales tax, and 0.62% property tax.
Should I move to Phoenix or Tucson?
It depends on your priorities. Phoenix has a cost index of 109 with median rent of $1,458/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.
View Phoenix details → View Tucson details →

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