Is Mesa or Sacramento more affordable?
Mesa has a median rent of $1,500/month, while Sacramento is $1,650/month. Mesa is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Mesa, AZ vs Sacramento, CA
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Mesa and Sacramento.
4
Mesa wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
1
Sacramento wins
AZ
Mesa
vs
CA
Sacramento
Overview
504,258
Population
524,943
$56,891
Median Income
+6.7%$60,715✓
Cost of Living
$1,500✓
Median Rent / mo
+10.0%$1,650
$380,000✓
Median Home Price
+31.6%$500,000
32%
Rent-to-Income %
33%
Taxes
2.50%✓
State Income Tax
9.30%
8.30%
Local Tax Rate
8.75%
Climate & Weather
87°F
Avg High Temp
73°F
62°F
Avg Low Temp
50°F
299 days✓
Sunny Days / Year
269 days
8"
Annual Rainfall
18"
Who should choose
Mesa, AZ
Mesa is a city in Arizona with a population of 504,258.
Read full Mesa guide →Who should choose
Sacramento, CA
Sacramento is a city in California with a population of 524,943.
Read full Sacramento guide →Mesa vs Sacramento — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Mesa or Sacramento?
Arizona has a 2.50% state income tax. California has a 9.30% state income tax. Mesa wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Mesa and Sacramento?
Mesa gets 299 sunny days/year. Sacramento gets 269 sunny days/year. Avg high in Mesa: 87°F. Avg high in Sacramento: 73°F
Which city is better for families — Mesa or Sacramento?
Mesa. Sacramento. 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.