San Diego, CA vs Tucson, AZ: 197 vs 76

$2,223/mo ↑ 106%

Median Rent

$1,079/mo ↓ 51%

$104,321/yr ↑ 91%

Median Income

$54,546/yr ↓ 48%

$848,500 ↑ 250%

Home Value

$242,200 ↓ 71%

$2,308/mo ↑ 114%

Owner Costs

$1,076/mo ↓ 53%

1,385,061

Population

543,348

Detailed Comparison

When comparing San Diego, CA and Tucson, AZ, the overall cost of living indices are 197 and 76 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $1,144/month cheaper in Tucson, saving renters about $13,728/year.

Median household income is $49,775/year higher in San Diego. Home values also differ significantly — the median in San Diego is $848,500 compared to $242,200 in Tucson.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

San Diego vs Tucson — common questions

Is San Diego or Tucson cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Tucson is cheaper to live in with an index of 76 compared to 197 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between San Diego and Tucson?

Median rent in San Diego is $2,223/month and in Tucson it's $1,079/month — a difference of $1,144/month.

Which city has higher income, San Diego or Tucson?

Median household income is $104,321 in San Diego and $54,546 in Tucson. Median household income is $49,775/year higher in San Diego.

How do taxes compare between California and Arizona?

California has 13.3% income tax, 7.25% sales tax, and 0.71% property tax. Arizona has 2.5% income tax, 5.6% sales tax, and 0.62% property tax.

Should I move to San Diego or Tucson?

It depends on your priorities. San Diego has a cost index of 197 with median rent of $2,223/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: San Diego, CA vs Tucson, AZ (2026)

San Diego

Tucson

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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