Is Mesa or Portland more affordable?
Mesa has a median rent of $1,500/month, while Portland is $1,406/month. Portland is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Mesa, AZ vs Portland, OR
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Mesa and Portland.
3
Mesa wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
2
Portland wins
AZ
Mesa
vs
OR
Portland
Overview
504,258
Population
647,176
$56,891
Median Income
+37.9%$78,476✓
Cost of Living
$1,500
Median Rent / mo
-6.3%$1,406✓
$380,000✓
Median Home Price
+21.8%$462,800
32%
Rent-to-Income %
21%
Taxes
2.50%✓
State Income Tax
9.90%
8.30%
Local Tax Rate
0.00%
Climate & Weather
87°F
Avg High Temp
50.49°F
62°F
Avg Low Temp
46.76°F
299 days✓
Sunny Days / Year
N/A
8"
Annual Rainfall
N/A
Who should choose
Mesa, AZ
Mesa is a city in Arizona with a population of 504,258.
Read full Mesa guide →Who should choose
Portland, OR
Portland is a city in Oregon with a population of 647,176.
Read full Portland guide →Mesa vs Portland — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Mesa or Portland?
Arizona has a 2.50% state income tax. Oregon has a 9.90% state income tax. Mesa wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Mesa and Portland?
Mesa gets 299 sunny days/year. Avg high in Mesa: 87°F. Avg high in Portland: 50.49°F
Which city is better for families — Mesa or Portland?
Mesa. Portland. 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.