Cheapest Cities to Rent in Arizona (2026)
The cheapest rent in Arizona is in Tucson, AZ, where a 2-bedroom averages $1,402/mo and a 1-bedroom $1,081/mo (2026 HUD Fair Market Rent) — $219/mo below the Arizona average 2BR of $1,621. The table below ranks all 2 of the cheapest cities to rent in Arizona.
Top 2 Cheapest Cities in Arizona
Ranked by 2-bedroom rent price (lowest first)
| Rank | City | Studio | 1 Bed | 2 Bed | 3 Bed | Income Needed |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
#1 | Tucson, AZ | $967 | $1,081 | $1,402 | $1,950 | $56,080/yr |
#2 | Phoenix, AZ | $1,457 | $1,583 | $1,839 | $2,452 | $73,560/yr |
Why These Arizona Cities Are Affordable
Arizona offers moderate affordability, with Phoenix remaining cheaper than California metros despite recent increases. Tucson provides excellent value, while suburban areas like Mesa, Chandler, and Gilbert offer family-friendly options at various price points.
- Below-average housing costs: These cities have housing indices lower than the state average of 105
- Lower demand: Smaller populations and less competitive markets keep prices reasonable
- Diverse housing stock: Mix of older and newer buildings provides options at various price points
- Regional economies: Local job markets support working populations without coastal-city premiums
Income Requirements
Using the standard 30% of income guideline, here's what you need to earn to afford rent in Arizona's cheapest cities:
How Arizona's Cheapest Cities Compare
What to Consider Before Moving
Best For
- ✓Retirees seeking warm weather
- ✓Remote workers
- ✓Tech professionals
- ✓Outdoor enthusiasts
Considerations
- •Extreme summer heat
- •Water scarcity concerns
- •Rapid growth changing communities
Cheapest Rent in Arizona: FAQ
Where is the cheapest rent in Arizona?
The cheapest rent in Arizona is in Tucson, AZ, where a 2-bedroom averages $1,402/month and a 1-bedroom $1,081/month in 2026 (HUD Fair Market Rent). Next cheapest: Phoenix ($1,839).
How much can I save renting in Arizona's cheapest cities?
By choosing Arizona's cheapest city over the state average 2BR of $1,621, you could save $219/month or $2,628/year on rent.
Is rent in Arizona's cheapest city below the US average?
Yes. A 2-bedroom in Tucson costs $1,402/month, which is $171/month below the US median 2BR Fair Market Rent of $1,573 (HUD, 2026).
What income do I need to rent in Arizona's cheapest cities?
To afford the cheapest 2BR in Arizona at $1,402/month, you need approximately $56,080/year based on the 30% of income guideline.