Is Sacramento or Tucson more affordable?
Sacramento has a median rent of $1,650/month, while Tucson is $1,000/month. Tucson is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Sacramento, CA vs Tucson, AZ
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Sacramento and Tucson.
1
Sacramento wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
4
Tucson wins
CA
Sacramento
vs
AZ
Tucson
Overview
524,943
Population
546,574
$60,715✓
Median Income
-29.7%$42,672
Cost of Living
$1,650
Median Rent / mo
-39.4%$1,000✓
$500,000
Median Home Price
-50.0%$250,000✓
33%
Rent-to-Income %
28%
Taxes
9.30%
State Income Tax
2.50%✓
8.75%
Local Tax Rate
8.70%
Climate & Weather
73°F
Avg High Temp
80°F
50°F
Avg Low Temp
53°F
269 days
Sunny Days / Year
286 days✓
18"
Annual Rainfall
12"
Who should choose
Sacramento, CA
Sacramento is a city in California with a population of 524,943.
Read full Sacramento guide →Who should choose
Tucson, AZ
Tucson is a city in Arizona with a population of 546,574.
Read full Tucson guide →Sacramento vs Tucson — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Sacramento or Tucson?
California has a 9.30% state income tax. Arizona has a 2.50% state income tax. Tucson wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Sacramento and Tucson?
Sacramento gets 269 sunny days/year. Tucson gets 286 sunny days/year. Avg high in Sacramento: 73°F. Avg high in Tucson: 80°F
Which city is better for families — Sacramento or Tucson?
Sacramento. 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.