salaryTucson is 6% cheaperBased on official 2024 price levels from the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis.
I need in Tucson to live the same way.
🏠 Rent per month
$1,983
$1,358
🛏️ 2-bedroom rent
$1,622
$1,285
💵 Families earn per year
$84,017
$61,553
🔑 Buying a house
$334,100
$266,200
📊 Overall prices (U.S. = 100)
103.6
96.9
🏛️ Property tax per year
$4,943
$1,786
⚡ Electric bill per month
$90
$143
👥 People living there
2,711,226
547,073
Commute to work
33.1 min
21.9 min
College degree
44.3%
31.1%
Own their home
46%
51.8%
Below poverty line
16.8%
18.9%
Unemployment
8%
6.2%
Bottom line
- Pick Chicago for higher incomes, a more educated workforce, less poverty.
- Pick Tucson for lower rent, cheaper 2-bedroom apartments, cheaper homes and 2 more.
Pay for the same job
| Job | Chicago | Tucson | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Plumber | $103,380 | $59,070 | -43% in Tucson |
| Firefighter | $82,820 | $47,960 | -42% in Tucson |
| Electrician | $102,350 | $59,480 | -42% in Tucson |
| Elementary School Teacher | $78,390 | $47,220 | -40% in Tucson |
| Carpenter | $80,440 | $49,110 | -39% in Tucson |
| Lawyer | $165,660 | $107,510 | -35% in Tucson |
| Police Officer | $107,810 | $76,970 | -29% in Tucson |
| HVAC Technician | $77,960 | $56,070 | -28% in Tucson |
Frequently asked questions
Is Chicago or Tucson cheaper to live in?
Tucson is about 6% cheaper overall. Rent is $1,358 a month there versus $1,983 in Chicago.
What salary do I need in Tucson to match $60,000 in Chicago?
About $56,120 a year gives the same standard of living in Tucson.
Where do people earn more, Chicago or Tucson?
The typical household earns $84,017 in Chicago and $61,553 in Tucson, 36% more in Chicago.