Posted on April 21, 2025
Tucson is not just a desert city, it’s a place full of charm, character, and sunshine. Located in the Sonoran Desert and surrounded by mountain ranges, Tucson offers beautiful scenic views, a rich culture, and a peaceful life with all the modern amenities.
Whether you are looking for job opportunities, good weather, or the scenery, Tucson has everything. That’s why people from all over the country are moving here to raise their families. However, it’s important to plan and budget your move properly to avoid any unexpected burdens. So if you’re planning a move, this guide will cover the cost of living in Tucson along with other important information you should know.
Housing Costs in Tucson
Housing is usually the largest monthly expense for most people and in Tucson, it’s a major reason why so many are relocating. Compared to many urban areas, the housing costs are lower in Tucson. Along with this, you also rent great spaces at a budget-friendly price, which makes Tucson a good option to relocate.
According to Zillow, the average home price is $327,578 while the average rent for an apartment is $1500/month. Here’s what you can expect to pay on average in 2025:
- 1-bedroom apartment: ~$1,100/month
- 2-bedroom apartment: ~$1,350/month
- Family-sized home (3+ bedrooms): $1,800–$2,400/month depending on location and amenities
That means you could save nearly $75,000 just by choosing Tucson over the average U.S. city. So it’s okay to say that the average cost of living here is low and you can live comfortably while paying less.
Best Neighborhoods for Affordable Living
Many neighborhoods in Tucson offer a great mix of affordability, amenities, and community feel. So if you’re researching, here are some options:
- Midvale Park – This is a family-friendly neighborhood that gives you access to parks, shopping places, and educational institutions such as Tucson Unified School District, making it perfect for families with kids.
- El Rio Acres – Located close to downtown, this area offers some of the most budget-friendly housing options in Tucson. So if you’re planning to buy a house without breaking the bank, it can be a good option.
- Menlo Park – One of Tucson’s oldest neighborhoods, Menlo Park is known for its charm, affordability, and strong sense of community. It’s also located near popular attractions like Sentinel Peak and Mercado San Agustín.
Utilities and Household Expenses
If you’re budgeting, then you should also consider utilities. While Tucson offers generally affordable utility rates, the energy use during the summer months may be higher, which can lead to higher utility bills. Here are the average monthly bills:
- Electricity & Water: Your exact cost depends on your home size, personal usage, and the season but the average electric bill in Tucson is between $150-$220.
- Internet: The major internet providers are Cox and Xfinity, and they offer different plans. However, expect to pay $60–$80.
- Trash & Sewer: These services are usually included in your city or rental utility package and remain relatively stable year-round. So expect to pay $20-$30 depending on the area you are living.
Tucson’s Climate Impact
One of the biggest influences on your utility bill in Tucson is the heat. The city gets extremely busy in summer, which means you will have to rely heavily on air conditioners, which can increase your bills by 30-50%.
On the flip side, winters are mild and often don’t require much heating at all. Many residents find that lower heating costs in the winter help balance out the high cooling costs in the summer.
Food and Grocery Costs
Grocery Prices
Grocery prices in Tucson are about on par with the national average. Here’s what you can expect:
- Milk (1 gallon): $3.50
- Loaf of bread: $2.50
- Dozen eggs: $2.75
- Fresh produce: Fairly affordable due to local agriculture
Dining Out
- Inexpensive meal: $12–$15 per person
- Mid-range restaurant (3-course meal for two): ~$55–$70
Tucson also has a rich food truck and taco stand culture, which provides great value meals for under $10.
Transportation Costs
If your work requires frequent traveling, Transportation costs are another important thing you should consider. Here’s why you can expect:
Gas Prices
- Recent average: ~$3.80 per gallon (as of 2024)
Public Transit
- One-way fare: $1.75
- Monthly pass: $42 (discounts for seniors and students)
Car Ownership Costs
- Car insurance: ~$1,200/year on average
- Routine maintenance (oil changes, etc.): ~$60/month depending on vehicle age
Healthcare Expenses
If you’re making a budget and want to figure out how much does it cost to live comfortably in Tucson, you should also consider healthcare expenses. The good thing is healthcare costs in Tucson are below the national average. Here’s what you should expect:
Health Insurance
- Individual plan: ~$300–$450/month (varies by coverage and provider)
- Family coverage: ~$1,000–$1,200/month
Common Medical Costs
- Doctor’s visit: $110–$150 without insurance
- Dental cleaning: ~$100
- Urgent care visit: ~$125–$200
Tucson has several respected hospitals, including Banner University Medical Center.
Education and Childcare Costs
If you have kids, it’s important to consider childcare and education expenses. Tucson offers multiple options, making it easy to choose one that fits your needs and budget.
Childcare and Schooling
- Daycare: Expect to pay between $700 and $1,000 per month per child, depending on the facility and age group.
- Preschool: Tucson has both private and public preschool options, but expect to pay $600–$900/month.
- Private school tuition: $6,000–$15,000/year depending on the school
University of Arizona
Located in central Tucson, the University of Arizona is a major reason why people move to this city.
- In-state tuition: About $12,000 per year for Arizona residents
- Out-of-state tuition: Roughly $36,000 per year
- Room and board: An additional $11,000 per year, depending on housing type and meal plans
Taxes in Tucson
The tax system is simple in Arizona and the good thing is that it offers some of the lowest property and income tax rates in the country.
- State Income Tax – Arizona has a flat state income tax rate of 2.5%, making it one of the lowest in the country.
- Sales Tax – Tucson’s total sales tax rate is about 8.7%, which includes city and county additions.
- Property Taxes – It is relatively low at 0.66% of assessed home value. So if you have a home worth $325,000, that’s around $2,150/year.
Entertainment and Lifestyle
Tucson is known for its balance between affordable city amenities and easy access to nature. So whether you like arts, fitness, or the outdoors, you will get something to do without breaking the bank.
Paid Entertainment
- Gym membership: $25–$60/month
- Movie ticket: ~$12
- Museum pass: ~$10–$15 per visit (many offer free days!)
Free and Low-Cost Activities
- You can go hiking in Sabino Canyon or explore Mount Lemmon
- You can go to the Loop and enjoy biking on a 130-mile bike path
- You can visit Saguaro National Park
- You can also attend local festivals and cultural events to socialize
How Tucson’s Cost of Living Compares
If you’re wondering how Tucson stacks up, here are a few quick comparisons that show its affordability advantage:
- Tucson vs. Phoenix
Tucson is about 10–15% cheaper overall
Housing and transportation costs are lower
It experiences less traffic and insurance and groceries are also cheaper - Tucson vs. Los Angeles
Tucson is 40–50% more affordable
Lower housing, food, and insurance costs
Tucson also has far fewer hidden fees and taxes than larger California cities - Tucson vs. National Average
Tucson is roughly 8–10% below the U.S. average
This makes it a smart choice for individuals and families who want big-city amenities with small-town affordability
Whether you compare it with other Arizona cities or major metro areas across the country, it will be one of the most affordable places to live.
Final Thoughts: Is Tucson Affordable?
Now the final question is, “Is Tucson Affordable?” Compared to other Arizona cities like Phoenix or larger metros like Los Angeles, Tucson is a budget-friendly alternative without sacrificing quality of life. The housing prices in this city are lower, you get fresh groceries at reasonable rates and the utility bills are also manageable. However, Tucson does have hot summers and a growing population that may put some pressure on housing. So it depends on your lifestyle preferences whether it is a good place for you or not.
If you’re still wondering, what is it like to live in Tucson, it’s best to visit the place and explore different areas to get a better idea. If you have decided to move to Tucson, a professional moving company like Clutch Moving Company can make your transition smoother, faster, and less overwhelming. If you want to know more, you can request a free quote.