Cost of Living in Tucson for Students In 2025

Understanding the cost of living in Tucson is important for students, international students, single residents, and families considering relocation or education in this southwest city. Tucson’s housing, utilities, transportation, groceries, healthcare, and other living expenses reflect its unique economic position. This comprehensive guide covers the cost of living in Tucson for students and singles, with detailed data updated for 2025.

What is the Cost of Living in Tucson?

The cost of living in Tucson varies but generally remains slightly above the national average by about 3%. The Tucson cost of living for students is relatively affordable compared to other U.S. college towns, making it an attractive option for those pursuing higher education. Tucson offers affordable housing relative to other cities in Arizona, with many options for students and singles to find budget-friendly accommodations. While certain expenses like groceries and transportation run a little higher, the overall balance keeps Tucson accessible. 

Housing: Largest Expense in Tucson Cost of Living

Housing accounts for the major part of the cost of living in Tucson. Median rent for a one-bedroom apartment sits at about $874 per month in 2025, with two-bedroom units around $1,122. This is 5% below the national average but varies significantly by neighborhood.​

• Higher cost areas: Miramonte ($1,509 one-bedroom)
• Average cost areas: Tucson overall ($874 one-bedroom)
• More affordable: Dietz ($829 one-bedroom)

Students and international residents often find roommates or shared housing to reduce the cost of living in Tucson substantially. Different neighborhoods offer various price points, and those farther from city centers tend to have lower rent but higher transportation needs. The living cost in Tucson for international students include housing, food, transportation, and personal expenses, all of which are quite reasonable compared to larger U.S. cities. The cost of living in Tucson for a single person typically ranges between $1,200 and $1,800 per month, depending on lifestyle choices and housing options.

Median home prices rose to nearly $480,000, reflecting Tucson’s real estate market’s growth, but still offer lower prices than other southwestern metros.​

Utilities and Communication Costs

Utilities add between $123 and $234 monthly to Tucson’s cost of living. This includes electricity (which can vary due to desert heat), water, garbage collection, and heating or cooling. Internet service averages $60–$75 per month, and mobile phone services may add another $70–$100.​ On average, living expenses in Tucson for international students range from $900 to $1,500 per month, depending on lifestyle and housing choices.

Students sharing housing can reduce these costs further by splitting bills, keeping monthly utilities well within budget.

Food and Grocery Costs in Tucson

Groceries in Tucson represent about a 5% increase over the national average, which affects the cost of living in Tucson for families and singles. The average cost of living in Tucson USA, is lower than the national average, offering great value for students and professionals alike. A typical grocery bill is around $500 to $570 per month for a single person or student.​ 

Selected typical food prices:

• Bread: $4.15 per loaf
• Milk: $4.94 per gallon
• Eggs: $3.74 per carton
• Bananas: $.078 per bunch
• Hamburger: $5.96 each

Dining out usually costs $15–$20 for lunch in an inexpensive restaurant, adding modestly to food expenses depending on lifestyle.

Transportation: Costs to Consider

Transportation expenses, while slightly higher than average, remain a manageable part of the cost of living in Tucson. Single-ride bus fares are $1.98, and monthly passes are $40, making public transit a good choice for students and those living near city centers.

Gasoline prices run around $3.50 per gallon, and owning a car adds insurance and parking fees to monthly expenses.​

Healthcare and Insurance Expenses

Healthcare costs in Tucson are moderately lower than national averages but vary by individual insurance plans and medical needs. A typical doctor’s visit is about $131, a dentist visit $107, and insurance premiums for students or individuals usually range between $300–$450 monthly. The average living cost in Tucson can vary, but most residents find it affordable compared to other cities in Arizona and the southwestern United States.

Careful planning, especially for international students, can help contain these costs within the overall cost of living in Tucson.​

Additional Expenses

• Gym memberships typically cost $40 monthly
• Entertainment (movies, events): $11–$15 per ticket
• Personal care and miscellaneous costs: $80–$120 monthly for clothes, toiletries, subscriptions

Cost of Living in Tucson for Students and International Students

Students in Tucson generally budget between $900 and $1,600 per month, depending on housing arrangements and personal habits. Shared apartments and the use of student transit passes significantly reduce the cost of living in Tucson. International students benefit from Tucson’s careful balance of moderate living costs and quality amenities, enabling a sustainable lifestyle on a student budget. The cost of living is known for being one of the most budget-friendly in the region, making it ideal for students and young professionals.

Safety and Location Impact on Tucson Living Costs

Residence location affects the cost of living in Tucson. Campus areas closer to the University of Arizona often mean higher rent but lower transport expenses and generally safer environments, especially during the day. Tucson overall has a violent crime rate of around 589 per 100,000 residents and a property crime rate of about 3,333 per 100,000 residents, making property crime the more common concern for students. The city’s overall Crime Index is roughly 55 and the Safety Index is around 45 on a 0–100 scale. Areas farther from campus offer lower rent but may require car ownership, longer commute times, and more careful attention to neighborhood safety. Still, the average living expenses in Tucson are manageable for students on a budget, allowing them to maintain a comfortable lifestyle without overspending.

Conclusion

In 2025, the cost of living in Tucson is balanced between affordable housing, moderate utilities, slightly higher grocery prices, and manageable healthcare. Students, international residents, and singles can successfully live within moderate budgets when choosing neighborhoods wisely and using shared housing and public transport options. Living expenses in Tucson are generally affordable, with housing and transportation costs significantly lower than in major metropolitan areas.

Studying or living in Tucson offers a practical option for those seeking moderate living costs paired with southwestern lifestyle advantages.

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