Is Tucson or Mesa more affordable?
Tucson has a median rent of $1,000/month, while Mesa is $1,500/month. Tucson is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Tucson, AZ vs Mesa, AZ
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Tucson and Mesa.
2
Tucson wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
2
Mesa wins
AZ
Tucson
vs
AZ
Mesa
Overview
546,574
Population
504,258
$42,672
Median Income
+33.3%$56,891✓
Cost of Living
$1,000✓
Median Rent / mo
+50.0%$1,500
$250,000✓
Median Home Price
+52.0%$380,000
28%
Rent-to-Income %
32%
Taxes
2.50%
State Income Tax
2.50%
8.70%
Local Tax Rate
8.30%
Climate & Weather
80°F
Avg High Temp
87°F
53°F
Avg Low Temp
62°F
286 days
Sunny Days / Year
299 days✓
12"
Annual Rainfall
8"
Who should choose
Tucson, AZ
Tucson is a city in Arizona with a population of 546,574.
Read full Tucson guide →Who should choose
Mesa, AZ
Mesa is a city in Arizona with a population of 504,258.
Read full Mesa guide →Tucson vs Mesa — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Tucson or Mesa?
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 Tucson and Mesa?
Tucson gets 286 sunny days/year. Mesa gets 299 sunny days/year. Avg high in Tucson: 80°F. Avg high in Mesa: 87°F
Which city is better for families — Tucson or Mesa?
Tucson. 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.