Phoenix, AZ vs Tuscaloosa, AL: 109 vs 73

$1,458/mo ↑ 45%

Median Rent

$1,005/mo ↓ 31%

$77,041/yr ↑ 59%

Median Income

$48,536/yr ↓ 37%

$381,900 ↑ 61%

Home Value

$236,600 ↓ 38%

$1,430/mo ↑ 38%

Owner Costs

$1,038/mo ↓ 27%

1,624,832

Population

107,699

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Phoenix, AZ and Tuscaloosa, AL, the overall cost of living indices are 109 and 73 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $453/month cheaper in Tuscaloosa, saving renters about $5,436/year.

Median household income is $28,505/year higher in Phoenix. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Phoenix is $381,900 compared to $236,600 in Tuscaloosa.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Phoenix vs Tuscaloosa — common questions

Is Phoenix or Tuscaloosa cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Tuscaloosa is cheaper to live in with an index of 73 compared to 109 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Phoenix and Tuscaloosa?

Median rent in Phoenix is $1,458/month and in Tuscaloosa it's $1,005/month — a difference of $453/month.

Which city has higher income, Phoenix or Tuscaloosa?

Median household income is $77,041 in Phoenix and $48,536 in Tuscaloosa. Median household income is $28,505/year higher in Phoenix.

How do taxes compare between Arizona and Alabama?

Arizona has 2.5% income tax, 5.6% sales tax, and 0.62% property tax. Alabama has 5.0% income tax, 4.0% sales tax, and 0.41% property tax.

Should I move to Phoenix or Tuscaloosa?

It depends on your priorities. Phoenix has a cost index of 109 with median rent of $1,458/mo, while Tuscaloosa has a cost index of 73 with rent of $1,005/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Phoenix, AZ vs Tuscaloosa, AL (2026)

Phoenix

Tuscaloosa

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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