Is Boston or Mesa more affordable?
Boston has a median rent of $1,783/month, while Mesa is $1,500/month. Mesa is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Boston, MA vs Mesa, AZ
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Boston and Mesa.
1
Boston wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
4
Mesa wins
MA
Boston
vs
AZ
Mesa
Overview
672,814
Population
504,258
$81,744✓
Median Income
-30.4%$56,891
Cost of Living
$1,783
Median Rent / mo
-15.9%$1,500✓
$610,400
Median Home Price
-37.7%$380,000✓
26%
Rent-to-Income %
32%
Taxes
5.00%
State Income Tax
2.50%✓
0.00%
Local Tax Rate
8.30%
Climate & Weather
45.41°F
Avg High Temp
87°F
42.48°F
Avg Low Temp
62°F
N/A
Sunny Days / Year
299 days✓
N/A
Annual Rainfall
8"
Who should choose
Boston, MA
Boston is a city in Massachusetts with a population of 672,814.
Read full Boston guide →Who should choose
Mesa, AZ
Mesa is a city in Arizona with a population of 504,258.
Read full Mesa guide →Boston vs Mesa — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Boston or Mesa?
Massachusetts has a 5.00% state income tax. Arizona has a 2.50% state income tax. Mesa wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Boston and Mesa?
Mesa gets 299 sunny days/year. Avg high in Boston: 45.41°F. Avg high in Mesa: 87°F
Which city is better for families — Boston or Mesa?
Boston. 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.