Is Boise or Mesa more affordable?
Boise has a median rent of $1,500/month, while Mesa is $1,500/month. Both cities have similar rent costs.
City comparison
Boise, ID vs Mesa, AZ
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Boise and Mesa.
1
Boise wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
3
Mesa wins
ID
Boise
vs
AZ
Mesa
Overview
241,150
Population
504,258
$62,000✓
Median Income
-8.2%$56,891
Cost of Living
$1,500
Median Rent / mo
-0.0%$1,500
$460,000
Median Home Price
-17.4%$380,000✓
29%
Rent-to-Income %
32%
Taxes
5.80%
State Income Tax
2.50%✓
6.00%
Local Tax Rate
8.30%
Climate & Weather
64°F
Avg High Temp
87°F
38°F
Avg Low Temp
62°F
206 days
Sunny Days / Year
299 days✓
12"
Annual Rainfall
8"
Who should choose
Boise, ID
Boise is a city in Idaho with a population of 241,150.
Read full Boise guide →Who should choose
Mesa, AZ
Mesa is a city in Arizona with a population of 504,258.
Read full Mesa guide →Boise vs Mesa — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Boise or Mesa?
Idaho has a 5.80% state income tax. Arizona has a 2.50% state income tax. Mesa wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Boise and Mesa?
Boise gets 206 sunny days/year. Mesa gets 299 sunny days/year. Avg high in Boise: 64°F. Avg high in Mesa: 87°F
Which city is better for families — Boise or Mesa?
Boise. 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.