Moving from Phoenix to Tucson (2026)
Tucson has a COL index of 93 vs 100 for Phoenix (100 = US average). You'd pay about 7% less for the same lifestyle.
Save ~$280/mo
on core expenses · $75K salary baseline
Key differences
COL index
10093
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$1,500$1,250
per month
State tax
2.5%2.5%
income tax
Take-home at $75K
$4,584$4,584
per month
Salary needed in Tucson to match your Phoenix lifestyle
Based on the 7% cost of living decrease between the two cities.
| Your salary in Phoenix | Equivalent in Tucson |
|---|---|
| $40K | $37,200 |
| $50K | $46,500 |
| $60K | $55,800 |
| $75K | $69,750 |
| $80K | $74,400 |
| $100K | $93,000 |
| $120K | $111,600 |
| $150K | $139,500 |
Monthly budget at $75K — Phoenix vs Tucson
| Expense | Phoenix | Tucson |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly take-home | $4,584 | $4,584 |
| 1BR rent | $1,500 | $1,250 |
| Groceries | $369 | $365 |
| Transport | $64 | $48 |
| Utilities | $210 | $200 |
| Internet | $60 | $60 |
| Left after essentials | $2,381 | $2,661 |
Frequently asked questions
Is Tucson cheaper than Phoenix?
Yes. Tucson has a cost of living index of 93 vs 100 for Phoenix (100 = US average). That's about 7% cheaper.
How much will I save moving from Phoenix to Tucson?
On a $75K salary, moving from Phoenix to Tucson could save roughly $280/month on core expenses. That's ~$3,360/year.
What salary do I need in Tucson to match my Phoenix lifestyle?
To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Phoenix, you'd need roughly $69,750/year in Tucson. This is based on the overall COL index difference between the two cities.
Moving from Tucson to PhoenixPhoenix vs Tucson — full comparisonPhoenix cost of livingTucson cost of living
Estimates based on Q1 2026 COL index and market data. Budget uses simplified federal/state tax rates at $75K. Zillow · BLS · Numbeo · For general guidance only