Cost of Living: Tucson, AZ vs Providence, RI (2026)

Tucson

Arizona
76
VS

Providence

Rhode Island
99

Tucson is 23% cheaper than Providence.

$1,079/mo ↓ 19%
Median Rent
$1,333/mo ↑ 24%
$54,546/yr ↓ 18%
Median Income
$66,772/yr ↑ 22%
$242,200 ↓ 25%
Home Value
$322,800 ↑ 33%
$1,076/mo ↓ 27%
Owner Costs
$1,467/mo ↑ 36%
543,348
Population
190,214

Tax Comparison

2.5%
Income Tax
5.99%
5.6%
State Sales Tax
7.0%
0.62%
Property Tax
1.53%

Affordability

23.7%
rent-to-income
Affordability
24.0%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Tucson, AZ and Providence, RI, the overall cost of living indices are 76 and 99 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $254/month cheaper in Tucson, saving renters about $3,048/year.

Median household income is $12,226/year higher in Providence. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Tucson is $242,200 compared to $322,800 in Providence.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Tucson vs Providence — common questions

Is Tucson or Providence cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Tucson is cheaper to live in with an index of 76 compared to 99 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Tucson and Providence?
Median rent in Tucson is $1,079/month and in Providence it's $1,333/month — a difference of $254/month.
Which city has higher income, Tucson or Providence?
Median household income is $54,546 in Tucson and $66,772 in Providence. Median household income is $12,226/year higher in Providence.
How do taxes compare between Arizona and Rhode Island?
Arizona has 2.5% income tax, 5.6% sales tax, and 0.62% property tax. Rhode Island has 5.99% income tax, 7.0% sales tax, and 1.53% property tax.
Should I move to Tucson or Providence?
It depends on your priorities. Tucson has a cost index of 76 with median rent of $1,079/mo, while Providence has a cost index of 99 with rent of $1,333/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
View Tucson details → View Providence details →

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