Is San Francisco or Tucson more affordable?
San Francisco has a median rent of $2,130/month, while Tucson is $1,000/month. Tucson is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
San Francisco, CA vs Tucson, AZ
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between San Francisco and Tucson.
1
San Francisco wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
4
Tucson wins
CA
San Francisco
vs
AZ
Tucson
Overview
865,933
Population
546,574
$126,187✓
Median Income
-66.2%$42,672
Cost of Living
$2,130
Median Rent / mo
-53.1%$1,000✓
$1,194,500
Median Home Price
-79.1%$250,000✓
20%
Rent-to-Income %
28%
Taxes
13.30%
State Income Tax
2.50%✓
0.00%
Local Tax Rate
8.70%
Climate & Weather
55.62°F
Avg High Temp
80°F
48.76°F
Avg Low Temp
53°F
N/A
Sunny Days / Year
286 days✓
N/A
Annual Rainfall
12"
Who should choose
San Francisco, CA
San Francisco is a city in California with a population of 865,933.
Read full San Francisco guide →Who should choose
Tucson, AZ
Tucson is a city in Arizona with a population of 546,574.
Read full Tucson guide →San Francisco vs Tucson — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — San Francisco or Tucson?
California has a 13.30% state income tax. Arizona has a 2.50% state income tax. Tucson wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between San Francisco and Tucson?
Tucson gets 286 sunny days/year. Avg high in San Francisco: 55.62°F. Avg high in Tucson: 80°F
Which city is better for families — San Francisco or Tucson?
San Francisco. 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.