Cost of Living: Tucson, AZ vs Spokane, WA (2026)

Tucson

Arizona
76
VS

Spokane

Washington
90

Tucson is 16% cheaper than Spokane.

$1,079/mo ↓ 5%
Median Rent
$1,141/mo ↑ 6%
$54,546/yr ↓ 17%
Median Income
$65,745/yr ↑ 21%
$242,200 ↓ 26%
Home Value
$326,200 ↑ 35%
$1,076/mo ↓ 11%
Owner Costs
$1,213/mo ↑ 13%
543,348
Population
229,228

Tax Comparison

2.5%
Income Tax
0%
5.6%
State Sales Tax
6.5%
0.62%
Property Tax
0.92%

Affordability

23.7%
rent-to-income
Affordability
20.8%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Tucson, AZ and Spokane, WA, the overall cost of living indices are 76 and 90 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $62/month cheaper in Tucson, saving renters about $744/year.

Median household income is $11,199/year higher in Spokane. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Tucson is $242,200 compared to $326,200 in Spokane.

Washington has no state income tax, giving Spokane residents a significant tax advantage over Arizona's 2.5% rate.

Frequently Asked Questions

Tucson vs Spokane — common questions

Is Tucson or Spokane cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Tucson is cheaper to live in with an index of 76 compared to 90 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Tucson and Spokane?
Median rent in Tucson is $1,079/month and in Spokane it's $1,141/month — a difference of $62/month.
Which city has higher income, Tucson or Spokane?
Median household income is $54,546 in Tucson and $65,745 in Spokane. Median household income is $11,199/year higher in Spokane.
How do taxes compare between Arizona and Washington?
Arizona has 2.5% income tax, 5.6% sales tax, and 0.62% property tax. Washington has 0% income tax, 6.5% sales tax, and 0.92% property tax.
Should I move to Tucson or Spokane?
It depends on your priorities. Tucson has a cost index of 76 with median rent of $1,079/mo, while Spokane has a cost index of 90 with rent of $1,141/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
View Tucson details → View Spokane details →

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