Is Austin or Mesa more affordable?
Austin has a median rent of $1,415/month, while Mesa is $1,500/month. Austin is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Austin, TX vs Mesa, AZ
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Austin and Mesa.
3
Austin wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
2
Mesa wins
TX
Austin
vs
AZ
Mesa
Overview
944,658
Population
504,258
$78,965✓
Median Income
-28.0%$56,891
Cost of Living
$1,415✓
Median Rent / mo
+6.0%$1,500
$381,400
Median Home Price
-0.4%$380,000✓
22%
Rent-to-Income %
32%
Taxes
None✓
State Income Tax
2.50%
0.00%
Local Tax Rate
8.30%
Climate & Weather
71.28°F
Avg High Temp
87°F
68.16°F
Avg Low Temp
62°F
N/A
Sunny Days / Year
299 days✓
N/A
Annual Rainfall
8"
Who should choose
Austin, TX
Austin is a city in Texas with a population of 944,658.
Read full Austin guide →Who should choose
Mesa, AZ
Mesa is a city in Arizona with a population of 504,258.
Read full Mesa guide →Austin vs Mesa — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Austin or Mesa?
Texas has no state income tax. Arizona has a 2.50% state income tax. Austin wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Austin and Mesa?
Mesa gets 299 sunny days/year. Avg high in Austin: 71.28°F. Avg high in Mesa: 87°F
Which city is better for families — Austin or Mesa?
Austin. 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.