Is Raleigh or Tucson more affordable?
Raleigh has a median rent of $1,450/month, while Tucson is $1,000/month. Tucson is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Raleigh, NC vs Tucson, AZ
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Raleigh and Tucson.
1
Raleigh wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
4
Tucson wins
NC
Raleigh
vs
AZ
Tucson
Overview
467,665
Population
546,574
$72,571✓
Median Income
-41.2%$42,672
Cost of Living
$1,450
Median Rent / mo
-31.0%$1,000✓
$400,000
Median Home Price
-37.5%$250,000✓
24%
Rent-to-Income %
28%
Taxes
4.75%
State Income Tax
2.50%✓
7.25%
Local Tax Rate
8.70%
Climate & Weather
71°F
Avg High Temp
80°F
50°F
Avg Low Temp
53°F
213 days
Sunny Days / Year
286 days✓
46"
Annual Rainfall
12"
Who should choose
Raleigh, NC
Raleigh is a city in North Carolina with a population of 467,665.
Read full Raleigh guide →Who should choose
Tucson, AZ
Tucson is a city in Arizona with a population of 546,574.
Read full Tucson guide →Raleigh vs Tucson — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Raleigh or Tucson?
North Carolina has a 4.75% state income tax. Arizona has a 2.50% state income tax. Tucson wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Raleigh and Tucson?
Raleigh gets 213 sunny days/year. Tucson gets 286 sunny days/year. Avg high in Raleigh: 71°F. Avg high in Tucson: 80°F
Which city is better for families — Raleigh or Tucson?
Raleigh. 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.