Is Aurora or Mesa more affordable?
Aurora has a median rent of $1,650/month, while Mesa is $1,500/month. Mesa is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Aurora, CO vs Mesa, AZ
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Aurora and Mesa.
2
Aurora wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
3
Mesa wins
CO
Aurora
vs
AZ
Mesa
Overview
388,568
Population
504,258
$60,817✓
Median Income
-6.5%$56,891
Cost of Living
$1,650
Median Rent / mo
-9.1%$1,500✓
$440,000
Median Home Price
-13.6%$380,000✓
33%
Rent-to-Income %
32%
Taxes
4.40%
State Income Tax
2.50%✓
8.00%
Local Tax Rate
8.30%
Climate & Weather
65°F
Avg High Temp
87°F
38°F
Avg Low Temp
62°F
300 days✓
Sunny Days / Year
299 days
15"
Annual Rainfall
8"
Who should choose
Aurora, CO
Aurora is a city in Colorado with a population of 388,568.
Read full Aurora guide →Who should choose
Mesa, AZ
Mesa is a city in Arizona with a population of 504,258.
Read full Mesa guide →Aurora vs Mesa — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Aurora or Mesa?
Colorado has a 4.40% state income tax. Arizona has a 2.50% state income tax. Mesa wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Aurora and Mesa?
Aurora gets 300 sunny days/year. Mesa gets 299 sunny days/year. Avg high in Aurora: 65°F. Avg high in Mesa: 87°F
Which city is better for families — Aurora or Mesa?
Aurora. Mesa. The right choice depends on your priorities — income, affordability, taxes, and climate all play a role.
More city comparisons
Data sourced from U.S. Census Bureau, Bureau of Labor Statistics, and NOAA. Green values indicate a better outcome for that metric.