Is Los Angeles or Mesa more affordable?
Los Angeles has a median rent of $1,852/month, while Mesa is $1,500/month. Mesa is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Los Angeles, CA vs Mesa, AZ
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Los Angeles and Mesa.
1
Los Angeles wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
4
Mesa wins
CA
Los Angeles
vs
AZ
Mesa
Overview
3,898,747
Population
504,258
$69,144✓
Median Income
-17.7%$56,891
Cost of Living
$1,852
Median Rent / mo
-19.0%$1,500✓
$750,000
Median Home Price
-49.3%$380,000✓
32%
Rent-to-Income %
32%
Taxes
9.30%
State Income Tax
2.50%✓
9.50%
Local Tax Rate
8.30%
Climate & Weather
75°F
Avg High Temp
87°F
58°F
Avg Low Temp
62°F
284 days
Sunny Days / Year
299 days✓
15"
Annual Rainfall
8"
Who should choose
Los Angeles, CA
Los Angeles is a city in California with a population of 3,898,747.
Read full Los Angeles guide →Who should choose
Mesa, AZ
Mesa is a city in Arizona with a population of 504,258.
Read full Mesa guide →Los Angeles vs Mesa — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Los Angeles or Mesa?
California has a 9.30% state income tax. Arizona has a 2.50% state income tax. Mesa wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Los Angeles and Mesa?
Los Angeles gets 284 sunny days/year. Mesa gets 299 sunny days/year. Avg high in Los Angeles: 75°F. Avg high in Mesa: 87°F
Which city is better for families — Los Angeles or Mesa?
Los Angeles. 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.