Is Mesa or San Francisco more affordable?
Mesa has a median rent of $1,500/month, while San Francisco is $2,130/month. Mesa is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Mesa, AZ vs San Francisco, CA
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Mesa and San Francisco.
4
Mesa wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
1
San Francisco wins
AZ
Mesa
vs
CA
San Francisco
Overview
504,258
Population
865,933
$56,891
Median Income
+121.8%$126,187✓
Cost of Living
$1,500✓
Median Rent / mo
+42.0%$2,130
$380,000✓
Median Home Price
+214.3%$1,194,500
32%
Rent-to-Income %
20%
Taxes
2.50%✓
State Income Tax
13.30%
8.30%
Local Tax Rate
0.00%
Climate & Weather
87°F
Avg High Temp
55.62°F
62°F
Avg Low Temp
48.76°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
San Francisco, CA
San Francisco is a city in California with a population of 865,933.
Read full San Francisco guide →Mesa vs San Francisco — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Mesa or San Francisco?
Arizona has a 2.50% state income tax. California has a 13.30% state income tax. Mesa wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Mesa and San Francisco?
Mesa gets 299 sunny days/year. Avg high in Mesa: 87°F. Avg high in San Francisco: 55.62°F
Which city is better for families — Mesa or San Francisco?
Mesa. San Francisco. 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.