Cost of Living in Tucson

Arizona · Population: 547,073 · Updated 2026

Below Average
Cost Index
96.9
100 = US avg
Median Income
$57K
Annual household
Median Rent
$1,145/mo
2-bedroom unit
Rent Burden
24%
Income to rent ratio
Cost Category Breakdown

Indexed to national average (100)

Housing67.4
Groceries100.0
Utilities100.0
Transportation100.0
Healthcare100.0
Economic Details
Median Home Value$266K
State Income Tax2.5%
Unemployment Rate4.1%
Est. Net Income$56K/yr
Affordability Score
102
out of 100
Below national average cost
Salary Converter for Tucson

See what salary you'd need in another city to match your purchasing power in Tucson.

$75,000

About Tucson

Tucson is an affordable desert city surrounded by stunning mountain scenery. The University of Arizona is a major economic driver, and the growing tech sector is attracting new investment to this Sun Belt city.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is Tucson expensive?

Tucson has a cost of living index of 96.9, where 100 represents the national average. This is close to the national average.

What salary do you need to live comfortably in Tucson?

Based on a rent-to-income ratio of 30%, you'd need at least $45,800 to afford the median 2-bedroom apartment in Tucson and maintain basic expenses.

What is the median rent in Tucson?

The median 2-bedroom rent in Tucson is $1,145 per month, according to HUD Fair Market Rent data.