Is Denver or Tucson more affordable?
Denver has a median rent of $1,495/month, while Tucson is $1,000/month. Tucson is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Denver, CO vs Tucson, AZ
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Denver and Tucson.
1
Denver wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
4
Tucson wins
CO
Denver
vs
AZ
Tucson
Overview
706,799
Population
546,574
$78,177✓
Median Income
-45.4%$42,672
Cost of Living
$1,495
Median Rent / mo
-33.1%$1,000✓
$459,100
Median Home Price
-45.5%$250,000✓
23%
Rent-to-Income %
28%
Taxes
4.40%
State Income Tax
2.50%✓
0.00%
Local Tax Rate
8.70%
Climate & Weather
56.19°F
Avg High Temp
80°F
51.3°F
Avg Low Temp
53°F
N/A
Sunny Days / Year
286 days✓
N/A
Annual Rainfall
12"
Who should choose
Denver, CO
Denver is a city in Colorado with a population of 706,799.
Read full Denver guide →Who should choose
Tucson, AZ
Tucson is a city in Arizona with a population of 546,574.
Read full Tucson guide →Denver vs Tucson — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Denver or Tucson?
Colorado has a 4.40% state income tax. Arizona has a 2.50% state income tax. Tucson wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Denver and Tucson?
Tucson gets 286 sunny days/year. Avg high in Denver: 56.19°F. Avg high in Tucson: 80°F
Which city is better for families — Denver or Tucson?
Denver. Tucson. The right choice depends on your priorities — income, affordability, taxes, and climate all play a role.
More city comparisons
Data sourced from U.S. Census Bureau, Bureau of Labor Statistics, and NOAA. Green values indicate a better outcome for that metric.