Is Mesa or Tucson more affordable?
Mesa has a median rent of $1,500/month, while Tucson is $1,000/month. Tucson is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Mesa, AZ vs Tucson, AZ
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Mesa and Tucson.
2
Mesa wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
2
Tucson wins
AZ
Mesa
vs
AZ
Tucson
Overview
504,258
Population
546,574
$56,891✓
Median Income
-25.0%$42,672
Cost of Living
$1,500
Median Rent / mo
-33.3%$1,000✓
$380,000
Median Home Price
-34.2%$250,000✓
32%
Rent-to-Income %
28%
Taxes
2.50%
State Income Tax
2.50%
8.30%
Local Tax Rate
8.70%
Climate & Weather
87°F
Avg High Temp
80°F
62°F
Avg Low Temp
53°F
299 days✓
Sunny Days / Year
286 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
Tucson, AZ
Tucson is a city in Arizona with a population of 546,574.
Read full Tucson guide →Mesa vs Tucson — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Mesa or Tucson?
Arizona has a 2.50% state income tax. Arizona has a 2.50% state income tax. Both have the same state income tax rate.
What is the weather difference between Mesa and Tucson?
Mesa gets 299 sunny days/year. Tucson gets 286 sunny days/year. Avg high in Mesa: 87°F. Avg high in Tucson: 80°F
Which city is better for families — Mesa or Tucson?
Mesa. Tucson. 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.