San Francisco, CA vs Tucson, AZ: 267 vs 76

$2,419/mo ↑ 124%

Median Rent

$1,079/mo ↓ 55%

$141,446/yr ↑ 159%

Median Income

$54,546/yr ↓ 61%

$1,380,500 ↑ 470%

Home Value

$242,200 ↓ 82%

$2,620/mo ↑ 143%

Owner Costs

$1,076/mo ↓ 59%

836,321

Population

543,348

Detailed Comparison

When comparing San Francisco, CA and Tucson, AZ, the overall cost of living indices are 267 and 76 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $1,340/month cheaper in Tucson, saving renters about $16,080/year.

Median household income is $86,900/year higher in San Francisco. Home values also differ significantly — the median in San Francisco is $1,380,500 compared to $242,200 in Tucson.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

San Francisco vs Tucson — common questions

Is San Francisco or Tucson cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Tucson is cheaper to live in with an index of 76 compared to 267 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between San Francisco and Tucson?

Median rent in San Francisco is $2,419/month and in Tucson it's $1,079/month — a difference of $1,340/month.

Which city has higher income, San Francisco or Tucson?

Median household income is $141,446 in San Francisco and $54,546 in Tucson. Median household income is $86,900/year higher in San Francisco.

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 Francisco or Tucson?

It depends on your priorities. San Francisco has a cost index of 267 with median rent of $2,419/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 Francisco, CA vs Tucson, AZ (2026)

San Francisco

Tucson

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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