Minneapolis vs Tucson: cost of living compared
Tucson is 19% cheaper than Minneapolis overall. State income tax tops out around 2.5% in AZ vs 7.05% in MN.
Indexes use a US average of 100: below 100 is cheaper than the national average. Housing and transportation are derived from median home prices, rents and commute times; figures come from BLS, Census ACS, Numbeo and the MIT Living Wage Calculator.
The big picture
Moving between Minneapolis and Tucson presents a significant shift in overall cost of living. Tucson generally offers a noticeably more affordable environment compared to Minneapolis. This difference is primarily driven by housing expenses, which are considerably lower in the Arizona metro. Most other spending categories also contribute to Tucson's more budget-friendly profile, making it an attractive option for those seeking to reduce their everyday expenditures.
Housing
Both buying and renting are more economical in Tucson than in Minneapolis. Median home prices show a clear advantage for Tucson, as do typical monthly rents for a one-bedroom unit. Housing stock in Minneapolis often features more traditional Midwestern styles, while Tucson leans towards Southwestern architecture, often with a focus on single-story homes. Property taxes can also vary, with Arizona generally having lower rates than Minnesota, impacting overall ownership costs.
Taxes and everyday costs
Daily expenses see a notable difference, particularly concerning state income tax, which is substantially lower in Arizona. Transportation costs are also more favorable in Tucson, and food and healthcare expenses are generally less. Utilities, however, are roughly similar between the two metros, with cooling costs in Tucson balancing heating costs in Minneapolis. Miscellaneous goods and services also tend to be more affordable in Tucson.
Lifestyle trade-offs
Beyond costs, a move involves a significant climate change, from Minneapolis's distinct four seasons with cold, snowy winters to Tucson's desert climate with hot summers and mild winters. Minneapolis offers a more established public transit system and a denser urban core, while Tucson is often characterized by a more spread-out feel and greater reliance on personal vehicles. The pace of life can feel different, with Minneapolis often perceived as more bustling.
Bottom line
For households considering a move, Tucson generally presents a more budget-friendly option across most spending categories, with housing being the most significant differentiator. While utility costs are roughly comparable, the combined savings on housing, transportation, food, healthcare, and state income tax in Tucson could lead to a substantial improvement in a household's financial outlook compared to Minneapolis. This makes Tucson a strong contender for those prioritizing cost savings.
| Measure | Minneapolis, MN | Tucson, AZ |
|---|---|---|
| Overall cost of living (US avg = 100) | 108 | 88 |
| Housing index | 94 | 78 |
| Transportation index | 98 | 89 |
| Food index | 102 | 90 |
| Healthcare index | 105 | 92 |
| Utilities index | 108 | 108 |
| Misc index | 98 | 82 |
| Median home price | $328,000 | $278,000 |
| Median 1-bedroom rent | $1,450/mo | $1,150/mo |
| Average commute | 27 min | 25 min |
Compare any two metros with the free cost of living tool, or see the true monthly cost of a specific Tucson home with the True Cost Calculator.