Is Indianapolis or Mesa more affordable?
Indianapolis has a median rent of $1,000/month, while Mesa is $1,500/month. Indianapolis is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Indianapolis, IN vs Mesa, AZ
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Indianapolis and Mesa.
2
Indianapolis wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
3
Mesa wins
IN
Indianapolis
vs
AZ
Mesa
Overview
887,642
Population
504,258
$51,225
Median Income
+11.1%$56,891✓
Cost of Living
$1,000✓
Median Rent / mo
+50.0%$1,500
$225,000✓
Median Home Price
+68.9%$380,000
23%
Rent-to-Income %
32%
Taxes
3.15%
State Income Tax
2.50%✓
7.00%
Local Tax Rate
8.30%
Climate & Weather
62°F
Avg High Temp
87°F
42°F
Avg Low Temp
62°F
186 days
Sunny Days / Year
299 days✓
42"
Annual Rainfall
8"
Who should choose
Indianapolis, IN
Indianapolis is a city in Indiana with a population of 887,642.
Read full Indianapolis guide →Who should choose
Mesa, AZ
Mesa is a city in Arizona with a population of 504,258.
Read full Mesa guide →Indianapolis vs Mesa — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Indianapolis or Mesa?
Indiana has a 3.15% state income tax. Arizona has a 2.50% state income tax. Mesa wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Indianapolis and Mesa?
Indianapolis gets 186 sunny days/year. Mesa gets 299 sunny days/year. Avg high in Indianapolis: 62°F. Avg high in Mesa: 87°F
Which city is better for families — Indianapolis or Mesa?
Indianapolis. 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.