Is Austin or Tucson more affordable?
Austin has a median rent of $1,415/month, while Tucson is $1,000/month. Tucson is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Austin, TX vs Tucson, AZ
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Austin and Tucson.
2
Austin wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
3
Tucson wins
TX
Austin
vs
AZ
Tucson
Overview
944,658
Population
546,574
$78,965✓
Median Income
-46.0%$42,672
Cost of Living
$1,415
Median Rent / mo
-29.3%$1,000✓
$381,400
Median Home Price
-34.5%$250,000✓
22%
Rent-to-Income %
28%
Taxes
None✓
State Income Tax
2.50%
0.00%
Local Tax Rate
8.70%
Climate & Weather
71.28°F
Avg High Temp
80°F
68.16°F
Avg Low Temp
53°F
N/A
Sunny Days / Year
286 days✓
N/A
Annual Rainfall
12"
Who should choose
Austin, TX
Austin is a city in Texas with a population of 944,658.
Read full Austin guide →Who should choose
Tucson, AZ
Tucson is a city in Arizona with a population of 546,574.
Read full Tucson guide →Austin vs Tucson — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Austin or Tucson?
Texas has no state income tax. Arizona has a 2.50% state income tax. Austin wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Austin and Tucson?
Tucson gets 286 sunny days/year. Avg high in Austin: 71.28°F. Avg high in Tucson: 80°F
Which city is better for families — Austin or Tucson?
Austin. Tucson. 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.