Is Phoenix or Tucson more affordable?
Phoenix has a median rent of $1,650/month, while Tucson is $1,000/month. Tucson is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Phoenix, AZ vs Tucson, AZ
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Phoenix and Tucson.
2
Phoenix wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
2
Tucson wins
AZ
Phoenix
vs
AZ
Tucson
Overview
1,608,139
Population
546,574
$62,000✓
Median Income
-31.2%$42,672
Cost of Living
$1,650
Median Rent / mo
-39.4%$1,000✓
$420,000
Median Home Price
-40.5%$250,000✓
32%
Rent-to-Income %
28%
Taxes
2.50%
State Income Tax
2.50%
8.60%
Local Tax Rate
8.70%
Climate & Weather
86°F
Avg High Temp
80°F
63°F
Avg Low Temp
53°F
299 days✓
Sunny Days / Year
286 days
8"
Annual Rainfall
12"
Who should choose
Phoenix, AZ
Phoenix is a city in Arizona with a population of 1,608,139.
Read full Phoenix guide →Who should choose
Tucson, AZ
Tucson is a city in Arizona with a population of 546,574.
Read full Tucson guide →Phoenix vs Tucson — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Phoenix or Tucson?
Arizona has a 2.50% state income tax. Arizona has a 2.50% state income tax. Both have the same state income tax rate.
What is the weather difference between Phoenix and Tucson?
Phoenix gets 299 sunny days/year. Tucson gets 286 sunny days/year. Avg high in Phoenix: 86°F. Avg high in Tucson: 80°F
Which city is better for families — Phoenix or Tucson?
Phoenix. 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.