Is Denver or Mesa more affordable?
Denver has a median rent of $1,495/month, while Mesa is $1,500/month. Denver is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Denver, CO vs Mesa, AZ
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Denver and Mesa.
2
Denver wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
3
Mesa wins
CO
Denver
vs
AZ
Mesa
Overview
706,799
Population
504,258
$78,177✓
Median Income
-27.2%$56,891
Cost of Living
$1,495✓
Median Rent / mo
+0.3%$1,500
$459,100
Median Home Price
-17.2%$380,000✓
23%
Rent-to-Income %
32%
Taxes
4.40%
State Income Tax
2.50%✓
0.00%
Local Tax Rate
8.30%
Climate & Weather
56.19°F
Avg High Temp
87°F
51.3°F
Avg Low Temp
62°F
N/A
Sunny Days / Year
299 days✓
N/A
Annual Rainfall
8"
Who should choose
Denver, CO
Denver is a city in Colorado with a population of 706,799.
Read full Denver guide →Who should choose
Mesa, AZ
Mesa is a city in Arizona with a population of 504,258.
Read full Mesa guide →Denver vs Mesa — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Denver 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 Denver and Mesa?
Mesa gets 299 sunny days/year. Avg high in Denver: 56.19°F. Avg high in Mesa: 87°F
Which city is better for families — Denver or Mesa?
Denver. 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.