Is Tucson or Phoenix more affordable?
Tucson has a median rent of $1,000/month, while Phoenix is $1,650/month. Tucson is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Tucson, AZ vs Phoenix, AZ
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Tucson and Phoenix.
2
Tucson wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
2
Phoenix wins
AZ
Tucson
vs
AZ
Phoenix
Overview
546,574
Population
1,608,139
$42,672
Median Income
+45.3%$62,000✓
Cost of Living
$1,000✓
Median Rent / mo
+65.0%$1,650
$250,000✓
Median Home Price
+68.0%$420,000
28%
Rent-to-Income %
32%
Taxes
2.50%
State Income Tax
2.50%
8.70%
Local Tax Rate
8.60%
Climate & Weather
80°F
Avg High Temp
86°F
53°F
Avg Low Temp
63°F
286 days
Sunny Days / Year
299 days✓
12"
Annual Rainfall
8"
Who should choose
Tucson, AZ
Tucson is a city in Arizona with a population of 546,574.
Read full Tucson guide →Who should choose
Phoenix, AZ
Phoenix is a city in Arizona with a population of 1,608,139.
Read full Phoenix guide →Tucson vs Phoenix — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Tucson or Phoenix?
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 Tucson and Phoenix?
Tucson gets 286 sunny days/year. Phoenix gets 299 sunny days/year. Avg high in Tucson: 80°F. Avg high in Phoenix: 86°F
Which city is better for families — Tucson or Phoenix?
Tucson. Phoenix. 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.