Is Mesa or Seattle more affordable?
Mesa has a median rent of $1,500/month, while Seattle is $1,801/month. Mesa is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Mesa, AZ vs Seattle, WA
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Mesa and Seattle.
3
Mesa wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
2
Seattle wins
AZ
Mesa
vs
WA
Seattle
Overview
504,258
Population
726,054
$56,891
Median Income
+85.3%$105,391✓
Cost of Living
$1,500✓
Median Rent / mo
+20.1%$1,801
$380,000✓
Median Home Price
+102.0%$767,500
32%
Rent-to-Income %
21%
Taxes
2.50%
State Income Tax
None✓
8.30%
Local Tax Rate
0.00%
Climate & Weather
87°F
Avg High Temp
49.82°F
62°F
Avg Low Temp
46.72°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
Seattle, WA
Seattle is a city in Washington with a population of 726,054.
Read full Seattle guide →Mesa vs Seattle — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Mesa or Seattle?
Arizona has a 2.50% state income tax. Washington has no state income tax. Seattle wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Mesa and Seattle?
Mesa gets 299 sunny days/year. Avg high in Mesa: 87°F. Avg high in Seattle: 49.82°F
Which city is better for families — Mesa or Seattle?
Mesa. Seattle. 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.