Is Mesa or Raleigh more affordable?
Mesa has a median rent of $1,500/month, while Raleigh is $1,450/month. Raleigh is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Mesa, AZ vs Raleigh, NC
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Mesa and Raleigh.
3
Mesa wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
2
Raleigh wins
AZ
Mesa
vs
NC
Raleigh
Overview
504,258
Population
467,665
$56,891
Median Income
+27.6%$72,571✓
Cost of Living
$1,500
Median Rent / mo
-3.3%$1,450✓
$380,000✓
Median Home Price
+5.3%$400,000
32%
Rent-to-Income %
24%
Taxes
2.50%✓
State Income Tax
4.75%
8.30%
Local Tax Rate
7.25%
Climate & Weather
87°F
Avg High Temp
71°F
62°F
Avg Low Temp
50°F
299 days✓
Sunny Days / Year
213 days
8"
Annual Rainfall
46"
Who should choose
Mesa, AZ
Mesa is a city in Arizona with a population of 504,258.
Read full Mesa guide →Who should choose
Raleigh, NC
Raleigh is a city in North Carolina with a population of 467,665.
Read full Raleigh guide →Mesa vs Raleigh — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Mesa or Raleigh?
Arizona has a 2.50% state income tax. North Carolina has a 4.75% state income tax. Mesa wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Mesa and Raleigh?
Mesa gets 299 sunny days/year. Raleigh gets 213 sunny days/year. Avg high in Mesa: 87°F. Avg high in Raleigh: 71°F
Which city is better for families — Mesa or Raleigh?
Mesa. Raleigh. 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.