Philadelphia vs Tucson: cost of living compared
Tucson is 21% cheaper than Philadelphia overall. State income tax tops out around 2.5% in AZ vs 3.07% in PA.
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 from Philadelphia to Tucson generally means a noticeable reduction in overall living expenses. Tucson's cost of living is considerably lower than the national average, while Philadelphia's is somewhat above it. This difference is largely driven by significant savings in housing, transportation, and everyday necessities, making Tucson a more budget-friendly option across many categories for those considering a relocation.
Housing
Housing costs present a substantial difference, with both buying and renting being more affordable in Tucson. Median home prices are lower there, and typical rental costs for a one-bedroom apartment are considerably less expensive. Philadelphia, with its older housing stock and denser urban environment, often presents higher property taxes and insurance costs, while Tucson's newer developments and different market dynamics contribute to its lower housing burden.
Taxes and everyday costs
Daily expenses like groceries, healthcare, and utilities generally favor Tucson, where these categories are noticeably cheaper. Transportation costs are also significantly lower in Tucson, reflecting different infrastructure and commuting patterns. Additionally, Arizona's state income tax is somewhat lower than Pennsylvania's, contributing to a lighter tax burden on earnings for Tucson residents.
Lifestyle trade-offs
Beyond costs, movers would experience distinct lifestyle changes. Philadelphia offers a dense, historic urban environment with four distinct seasons and extensive public transit. Tucson, in contrast, provides a desert climate with hot summers and mild winters, a more car-dependent culture, and a generally slower pace. Its natural surroundings offer different outdoor recreational opportunities compared to the Mid-Atlantic region.
Bottom line
A move from Philadelphia to Tucson would likely result in a significant improvement in a household's financial outlook due to lower costs across most major spending categories. The most impactful savings would be seen in housing and transportation. While the change in climate and urban character is substantial, the financial advantages in Tucson are clear, offering a more affordable lifestyle for many residents.
| Measure | Philadelphia, PA | Tucson, AZ |
|---|---|---|
| Overall cost of living (US avg = 100) | 112 | 88 |
| Housing index | 91 | 78 |
| Transportation index | 120 | 89 |
| Food index | 105 | 90 |
| Healthcare index | 108 | 92 |
| Utilities index | 105 | 108 |
| Misc index | 102 | 82 |
| Median home price | $298,000 | $278,000 |
| Median 1-bedroom rent | $1,550/mo | $1,150/mo |
| Average commute | 34 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.