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

Tucson

Arizona
76
VS

Tacoma

Washington
126

Tucson is 40% cheaper than Tacoma.

$1,079/mo ↓ 32%
Median Rent
$1,597/mo ↑ 48%
$54,546/yr ↓ 35%
Median Income
$83,857/yr ↑ 54%
$242,200 ↓ 47%
Home Value
$454,600 ↑ 88%
$1,076/mo ↓ 38%
Owner Costs
$1,747/mo ↑ 62%
543,348
Population
220,482

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
22.9%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Tucson, AZ and Tacoma, WA, the overall cost of living indices are 76 and 126 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $518/month cheaper in Tucson, saving renters about $6,216/year.

Median household income is $29,311/year higher in Tacoma. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Tucson is $242,200 compared to $454,600 in Tacoma.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Tucson vs Tacoma — common questions

Is Tucson or Tacoma cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Tucson is cheaper to live in with an index of 76 compared to 126 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Tucson and Tacoma?
Median rent in Tucson is $1,079/month and in Tacoma it's $1,597/month — a difference of $518/month.
Which city has higher income, Tucson or Tacoma?
Median household income is $54,546 in Tucson and $83,857 in Tacoma. Median household income is $29,311/year higher in Tacoma.
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 Tacoma?
It depends on your priorities. Tucson has a cost index of 76 with median rent of $1,079/mo, while Tacoma has a cost index of 126 with rent of $1,597/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
View Tucson details → View Tacoma details →

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