Cost of Living: Tucson, AZ vs Lincoln, NE (2026)

Tucson

Arizona
76
VS

Lincoln

Nebraska
77

Tucson and Lincoln have a similar cost of living.

$1,079/mo ↑ 3%
Median Rent
$1,045/mo ↓ 3%
$54,546/yr ↓ 22%
Median Income
$69,991/yr ↑ 28%
$242,200 ↓ 2%
Home Value
$248,200 ↑ 2%
$1,076/mo ↓ 6%
Owner Costs
$1,140/mo ↑ 6%
543,348
Population
291,932

Tax Comparison

2.5%
Income Tax
6.64%
5.6%
State Sales Tax
5.5%
0.62%
Property Tax
1.73%

Affordability

23.7%
rent-to-income
Affordability
17.9%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Tucson, AZ and Lincoln, NE, the overall cost of living indices are 76 and 77 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is comparable in both cities, with less than $50/month separating them.

Median household income is $15,445/year higher in Lincoln. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Tucson is $242,200 compared to $248,200 in Lincoln.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Tucson vs Lincoln — common questions

Is Tucson or Lincoln cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Tucson is cheaper to live in with an index of 76 compared to 77 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Tucson and Lincoln?
Median rent in Tucson is $1,079/month and in Lincoln it's $1,045/month — a difference of $34/month.
Which city has higher income, Tucson or Lincoln?
Median household income is $54,546 in Tucson and $69,991 in Lincoln. Median household income is $15,445/year higher in Lincoln.
How do taxes compare between Arizona and Nebraska?
Arizona has 2.5% income tax, 5.6% sales tax, and 0.62% property tax. Nebraska has 6.64% income tax, 5.5% sales tax, and 1.73% property tax.
Should I move to Tucson or Lincoln?
It depends on your priorities. Tucson has a cost index of 76 with median rent of $1,079/mo, while Lincoln has a cost index of 77 with rent of $1,045/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
View Tucson details → View Lincoln details →

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