Is Mesa or Phoenix more affordable?
Mesa has a median rent of $1,500/month, while Phoenix is $1,650/month. Mesa is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Mesa, AZ vs Phoenix, AZ
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Mesa and Phoenix.
2
Mesa wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
1
Phoenix wins
AZ
Mesa
vs
AZ
Phoenix
Overview
504,258
Population
1,608,139
$56,891
Median Income
+9.0%$62,000✓
Cost of Living
$1,500✓
Median Rent / mo
+10.0%$1,650
$380,000✓
Median Home Price
+10.5%$420,000
32%
Rent-to-Income %
32%
Taxes
2.50%
State Income Tax
2.50%
8.30%
Local Tax Rate
8.60%
Climate & Weather
87°F
Avg High Temp
86°F
62°F
Avg Low Temp
63°F
299 days
Sunny Days / Year
299 days
8"
Annual Rainfall
8"
Who should choose
Mesa, AZ
Mesa is a city in Arizona with a population of 504,258.
Read full Mesa guide →Who should choose
Phoenix, AZ
Phoenix is a city in Arizona with a population of 1,608,139.
Read full Phoenix guide →Mesa vs Phoenix — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Mesa or Phoenix?
Arizona has a 2.50% state income tax. Arizona has a 2.50% state income tax. Both have the same state income tax rate.
What is the weather difference between Mesa and Phoenix?
Mesa gets 299 sunny days/year. Phoenix gets 299 sunny days/year. Avg high in Mesa: 87°F. Avg high in Phoenix: 86°F
Which city is better for families — Mesa or Phoenix?
Mesa. Phoenix. 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.