Cost of Living in Mesa, AZ

2026 cost of living data for Mesa. Overall cost index: 97 (national avg = 100).

Overall Cost of Living Index
97
Average
3% below the national average

Cost Breakdown by Category

🏠 Housing98 — Average
98
🛒 Food & Groceries98 — Average
98
🚗 Transportation98 — Average
98
🏥 Healthcare95 — Below Average
95
⚡ Utilities100 — Average
100
🎭 Entertainment96 — Average
96
📋 Taxes88 — Below Average
88

Quality of Life in Mesa

🛡️
6/10
Safety
Safe
☀️
7/10
Weather
Good
💼
6/10
Job Market
Good

Key Statistics

Median Household Income
$60,342
Population
504,258

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Living in Mesa, AZ — 2026 Cost of Living Guide

Mesa is moderately affordable compared to the national average, with an overall cost of living index of 97. This means living in Mesa is approximately 3% less expensive than the national average.

Housing Costs in Mesa

Housing costs are roughly in line with the national average. The housing index for Mesa is 98, which means housing costs are 2% below the national average. This includes both rental prices and home purchase costs in the metropolitan area.

Income and Employment

The median household income in Mesa is $60,342, with a population of approximately 504,258. The median household income is moderate, providing a reasonable standard of living relative to local costs.

The job market in Mesa is solid, with steady growth in several key sectors and reasonable unemployment rates.

Daily Living Expenses

Beyond housing, daily expenses in Mesa are near the national average. Groceries and dining carry an index of 98, while transportation costs sit at 98. Healthcare expenses index at 95, and utilities come in at 100.

Taxes

Taxes in Mesa are roughly average, with a tax index of 88.

Quality of Life

Mesa enjoys generally pleasant weather, with seasonal variations that most residents find manageable.

Safety in Mesa is comparable to other cities of similar size, with some neighborhoods being safer than others.

Is Mesa a Good Place to Live?

Mesa provides a balanced combination of affordability and quality of life that appeals to a wide range of residents. With a good job market and good weather, Mesa continues to attract new residents drawn by the favorable cost of living.

Compare Mesa With Other Cities

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