Cost of Living in Tucson, AZ
Population 543,348 · Arizona · Data vintage 2023
(100 = US avg)
With a population over half a million, Tucson functions as the economic anchor for a much larger metropolitan region. Unemployment has stayed elevated relative to the national figure — 6.4% as of the most recent ACS release — which shows up in household-income and poverty figures as well.
Cost Overview
Scale: 100 = US national average. Green < 90, Red > 110.
About the Cost of Living in Tucson
The median home value in Tucson is $242,200 — 21% below the national median of $305,000. Median rent runs $1,079/month, 18% lower than the national median of $1,314/month. The median household income of $54,546/year is 27% lower than the US median of $74,580. The local unemployment rate is 6.4%, above the national average of 4.8%. Arizona's top state income tax rate is 2.5% and the combined sales tax is 8.4%. Overall, Tucson has a cost of living index of 80 versus the US average of 100, meaning it is 20% less expensive.
🏠 Housing
HUD Fair Market Rents by Bedroom
💰 Estimated Monthly Budget
Estimates based on median data and national averages. Actual costs vary.
🛒 Food & Groceries
National BLS average prices (2023). Local prices may vary.
🚗 Transportation
Commute Mode
⚡ Utilities
📋 Taxes
💼 Income & Employment
🎓 Education
👥 Demographics
💨 Air Quality
EPA AQS 2023 — county-level monitoring data
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cost of living in Tucson, AZ?
Tucson has a cost index of 80 (100 = national average). It is 20% below the national average.
What is average rent in Tucson, AZ?
The median gross rent in Tucson is $1,079 per month based on 2023 Census data.
What is the average home price in Tucson?
The median home value in Tucson is $242,200 according to Zillow and Census data.
What is the median income in Tucson?
The median household income in Tucson is $54,546 per year (2023 ACS 5-year estimates).
What is the sales tax in Tucson, AZ?
The combined state and local sales tax rate in Tucson is 8.4%. The Arizona state income tax top rate is 2.5%.
Is Tucson, AZ affordable?
Yes, Tucson is generally considered affordable, with a cost of living index of 80 — about 20% below the US national average of 100.
Tucson at a Glance
- Population
- 543,348
- Median Income
- $54,546
- Home Value
- $242,200
- Median Rent
- $1,079/mo
- Unemployment
- 6.4%
- Sales Tax
- 8.4%
Nearby Cities
Compare Tucson
Explore county-level cost of living data
Arizona Rankings
Similar Cost Cities
Cities in other states with comparable housing costs