Is Houston or Tucson more affordable?
Houston has a median rent of $1,250/month, while Tucson is $1,000/month. Tucson is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Houston, TX vs Tucson, AZ
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Houston and Tucson.
2
Houston wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
3
Tucson wins
TX
Houston
vs
AZ
Tucson
Overview
2,304,580
Population
546,574
$52,338✓
Median Income
-18.5%$42,672
Cost of Living
$1,250
Median Rent / mo
-20.0%$1,000✓
$265,000
Median Home Price
-5.7%$250,000✓
29%
Rent-to-Income %
28%
Taxes
None✓
State Income Tax
2.50%
8.25%
Local Tax Rate
8.70%
Climate & Weather
77°F
Avg High Temp
80°F
57°F
Avg Low Temp
53°F
204 days
Sunny Days / Year
286 days✓
50"
Annual Rainfall
12"
Who should choose
Houston, TX
Houston is a city in Texas with a population of 2,304,580.
Read full Houston guide →Who should choose
Tucson, AZ
Tucson is a city in Arizona with a population of 546,574.
Read full Tucson guide →Houston vs Tucson — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Houston or Tucson?
Texas has no state income tax. Arizona has a 2.50% state income tax. Houston wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Houston and Tucson?
Houston gets 204 sunny days/year. Tucson gets 286 sunny days/year. Avg high in Houston: 77°F. Avg high in Tucson: 80°F
Which city is better for families — Houston or Tucson?
Houston. 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.