Is Mesa or Philadelphia more affordable?
Mesa has a median rent of $1,500/month, while Philadelphia is $1,100/month. Philadelphia is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Mesa, AZ vs Philadelphia, PA
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Mesa and Philadelphia.
3
Mesa wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
2
Philadelphia wins
AZ
Mesa
vs
PA
Philadelphia
Overview
504,258
Population
1,603,797
$56,891✓
Median Income
-13.6%$49,127
Cost of Living
$1,500
Median Rent / mo
-26.7%$1,100✓
$380,000
Median Home Price
-44.7%$210,000✓
32%
Rent-to-Income %
27%
Taxes
2.50%✓
State Income Tax
3.07%
8.30%
Local Tax Rate
8.00%
Climate & Weather
87°F
Avg High Temp
63°F
62°F
Avg Low Temp
44°F
299 days✓
Sunny Days / Year
208 days
8"
Annual Rainfall
42"
Who should choose
Mesa, AZ
Mesa is a city in Arizona with a population of 504,258.
Read full Mesa guide →Who should choose
Philadelphia, PA
Philadelphia is a city in Pennsylvania with a population of 1,603,797.
Read full Philadelphia guide →Mesa vs Philadelphia — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Mesa or Philadelphia?
Arizona has a 2.50% state income tax. Pennsylvania has a 3.07% state income tax. Mesa wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Mesa and Philadelphia?
Mesa gets 299 sunny days/year. Philadelphia gets 208 sunny days/year. Avg high in Mesa: 87°F. Avg high in Philadelphia: 63°F
Which city is better for families — Mesa or Philadelphia?
Mesa. Philadelphia. 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.