Is Mesa or San Diego more affordable?
Mesa has a median rent of $1,500/month, while San Diego is $2,100/month. Mesa is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Mesa, AZ vs San Diego, CA
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Mesa and San Diego.
4
Mesa wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
1
San Diego wins
AZ
Mesa
vs
CA
San Diego
Overview
504,258
Population
1,386,932
$56,891
Median Income
+40.1%$79,685✓
Cost of Living
$1,500✓
Median Rent / mo
+40.0%$2,100
$380,000✓
Median Home Price
+105.3%$780,000
32%
Rent-to-Income %
32%
Taxes
2.50%✓
State Income Tax
9.30%
8.30%
Local Tax Rate
7.75%
Climate & Weather
87°F
Avg High Temp
70°F
62°F
Avg Low Temp
55°F
299 days✓
Sunny Days / Year
266 days
8"
Annual Rainfall
12"
Who should choose
Mesa, AZ
Mesa is a city in Arizona with a population of 504,258.
Read full Mesa guide →Who should choose
San Diego, CA
San Diego is a city in California with a population of 1,386,932.
Read full San Diego guide →Mesa vs San Diego — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Mesa or San Diego?
Arizona has a 2.50% state income tax. California has a 9.30% state income tax. Mesa wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Mesa and San Diego?
Mesa gets 299 sunny days/year. San Diego gets 266 sunny days/year. Avg high in Mesa: 87°F. Avg high in San Diego: 70°F
Which city is better for families — Mesa or San Diego?
Mesa. San Diego. 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.