Tucson vs Jacksonville: cost of living compared
Jacksonville is 8% more expensive than Tucson overall. Jacksonville (FL) has no state income tax; AZ tops out around 2.5%.
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
Overall, Tucson presents a more affordable cost of living compared to Jacksonville. The most significant difference stems from housing expenses, which are considerably lower in Tucson. While other categories show smaller gaps, the cumulative effect makes Tucson a more budget-friendly option. This general affordability is a key factor for anyone considering a move between these two metropolitan areas.
Housing
Housing costs, both for home purchases and rentals, are substantially lower in Tucson. Jacksonville's home prices and rents are noticeably higher. For homeowners in Florida, additional considerations include some of the nation's highest homeowners insurance premiums, potential flood insurance requirements, and the prevalence of HOA or CDD fees. Property taxes in Florida also reset to market value upon sale, which can impact a new buyer's annual costs.
Taxes and everyday costs
Daily expenses vary between the two cities. Tucson generally offers lower costs for food, transportation, and healthcare. Utilities, however, are slightly more expensive in Tucson. A major financial difference is Florida's lack of a state income tax, which can translate to more take-home pay for residents in Jacksonville, offsetting some other cost differences. Commute times are roughly similar in both metros.
Lifestyle trade-offs
Tucson offers a desert climate with dry heat and cool nights, while Jacksonville features a humid subtropical climate with warm, wet summers. Getting around in both cities primarily relies on personal vehicles. Jacksonville's coastal location provides access to beaches and water activities, but also brings hurricane season risks. Tucson's landscape is characterized by mountains and desert flora. Both metros offer a relaxed pace, but Jacksonville can feel more expansive.
Bottom line
For those prioritizing lower housing costs and a generally more affordable overall budget, Tucson stands out. However, Jacksonville's lack of a state income tax can provide a financial advantage, potentially balancing out some higher everyday expenses. Prospective movers should weigh the significant housing savings in Tucson against Florida's unique financial considerations like insurance and property taxes, alongside the distinct climate and lifestyle offerings of each city.
| Measure | Tucson, AZ | Jacksonville, FL |
|---|---|---|
| Overall cost of living (US avg = 100) | 88 | 95 |
| Housing index | 78 | 91 |
| Transportation index | 89 | 96 |
| Food index | 90 | 92 |
| Healthcare index | 92 | 95 |
| Utilities index | 108 | 105 |
| Misc index | 82 | 88 |
| Median home price | $278,000 | $318,000 |
| Median 1-bedroom rent | $1,150/mo | $1,400/mo |
| Average commute | 25 min | 27 min |
Compare any two metros with the free cost of living tool, or see the true monthly cost of a specific Jacksonville home with the True Cost Calculator.