Is Fresno or Mesa more affordable?
Fresno has a median rent of $1,100/month, while Mesa is $1,500/month. Fresno is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Fresno, CA vs Mesa, AZ
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Fresno and Mesa.
2
Fresno wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
3
Mesa wins
CA
Fresno
vs
AZ
Mesa
Overview
542,107
Population
504,258
$47,625
Median Income
+19.5%$56,891✓
Cost of Living
$1,100✓
Median Rent / mo
+36.4%$1,500
$320,000✓
Median Home Price
+18.8%$380,000
28%
Rent-to-Income %
32%
Taxes
9.30%
State Income Tax
2.50%✓
8.35%
Local Tax Rate
8.30%
Climate & Weather
78°F
Avg High Temp
87°F
53°F
Avg Low Temp
62°F
272 days
Sunny Days / Year
299 days✓
11"
Annual Rainfall
8"
Who should choose
Fresno, CA
Fresno is a city in California with a population of 542,107.
Read full Fresno guide →Who should choose
Mesa, AZ
Mesa is a city in Arizona with a population of 504,258.
Read full Mesa guide →Fresno vs Mesa — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Fresno or Mesa?
California has a 9.30% state income tax. Arizona has a 2.50% state income tax. Mesa wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Fresno and Mesa?
Fresno gets 272 sunny days/year. Mesa gets 299 sunny days/year. Avg high in Fresno: 78°F. Avg high in Mesa: 87°F
Which city is better for families — Fresno or Mesa?
Fresno. Mesa. 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.