Is it cheaper to live in Tucson than in California?

Absolutely yes. Significantly. Tucson’s overall cost of living is roughly 35–40% lower than California’s, mainly because of affordable housing, lower taxes, and reduced utility costs.

How much do homes cost in Tucson?

As of 2025, the median home price in Tucson is around $345,000, compared to $750,000 or more in many California cities. You can find comfortable single-family homes in desirable communities like Oro Valley, Casas Adobes, or Marana for well under what you’d pay for a condo in Los Angeles or San Diego.

What’s the Tucson job market like?

Tucson’s economy is growing steadily, with strong sectors in healthcare, defense, and education. Major employers include Raytheon, the University of Arizona, and Banner Health.

Do I need a REALTOR® to buy a home in Tucson if I live out of state?

Yes, and it helps tremendously. Working with a local REALTOR® like me gives you expert guidance, access to off-market listings, and someone to handle tours, negotiations, and inspections while you’re still in California.

Moving from California to Tucson: Cost of Living & Lifestyle Comparison

Welcome to Tucson: A Refreshing Change of Pace

If you’ve been dreaming of lower housing costs, more sunshine, and less traffic, Tucson might just be your perfect new home. Every year, more Californians are discovering what Tucson locals have known all along: that life here offers a wonderful balance of affordability, outdoor adventure, and a relaxed lifestyle.

Hi, I’m Darby Mulcahy, a local Tucson REALTOR® with Long Realty, and I specialize in helping out-of-state buyers relocate to Tucson. If you’re considering a move from California, this article offers a clear look at how Tucson stacks up and why it’s such an easy place to fall in love with.

Cost of Living: Get More for Your Money

Let’s start with what usually grabs people’s attention first: the numbers!

According to recent comparisons, Tucson’s cost of living is roughly 35–40% lower than most parts of California, and housing is definitely the biggest factor. The median home price in Tucson averages around $326,000 - $365,000, compared to well over $750,000 in many California cities (a difference of more than 50%). Renters see similar savings by moving to, with a typical two-bedroom apartment in Tucson costing about $1,400 per month, versus roughly $2,800 in California. Even everyday expenses are lighter on your wallet: gas prices here hover between $3.60 and $3.80 per gallon, compared to $5 or more in California. And with state income tax rates in Arizona ranging from just 2.5% to 4.5%, compared to California’s top bracket of 13.3%, many new residents find their paychecks stretch much further here.

Between lower home prices, property taxes, and insurance, many new Tucson homeowners find they can afford more home for less money or simply enjoy the freedom of lower monthly expenses.

Tucson’s Most Popular Neighborhoods for Relocating Buyers

Tucson isn’t one-size-fits-all, and that’s part of its charm! The greater Tucson area offers a mix of beautiful mountain views, quiet suburbs, and vibrant downtown lifestyle. No matter what lifestyle you're looking for there’s a community that fits. For example:

Tucson: Arizona's second-largest city, offering a vibrant urban experience with a rich cultural heritage, diverse dining scene, and thriving arts community.

Check out more information on living in the city of Tucson:

darbymulcahyrealestate.com/communities/tucson

Oro Valley: Clean, scenic, and family-friendly, with golf courses and mountain backdrops. Many relocating buyers love Oro Valley for its newer homes, excellent schools, and safe atmosphere.

Check out more information on living in Oro Valley:

darbymulcahyrealestate.com/communities/oro-valley

Casas Adobes: An upscale unincorporated community located in the Catalina Foothills area of Tucson, known for its beautiful desert views, luxury homes, and excellent schools.

Check out more information on living in the Casas Adobes :

darbymulcahyrealestate.com/communities/casas-adobes

Marana: A rapidly growing community northwest of Tucson, known for its spacious homes, master-planned communities, and family-friendly atmosphere.

Check out more information on living in Marana:

darbymulcahyrealestate.com/communities/marana

Quality of Life: Why People Fall in Love with Tucson

Relocating to Tucson isn't just about affordability, it’s about how you live!

Tucson has over 300 days of sunshine each year, a thriving food scene (including plenty of vegan and local options), and easy access to mountains, canyons, and trails within minutes of town. Whether you’re into hiking, cycling, or relaxing in your backyard with a sunset view, outdoor living is part of daily life here most of the year.

Traffic is minimal. People are friendly. The pace of life is more relaxed. Here you can find a slower, sunnier lifestyle that still has culture, creativity, and community.

Ready to Start Your Move?

Relocating from another state can feel overwhelming (I've done it myself) but you don’t have to figure it out alone!

I’ve helped dozens of buyers make Tucson their new home, guiding them through everything from initial tours to closing day. If you’re months away or even just starting to research, I’m here to help you every step of the way!

Feel free to contact me at any time if you'd like to chat about your move to Tucson.

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