Cost of Living Comparison 2026
Numbers update automatically as you type
Mesa, AZ and Phoenix, AZ have similar living costs
$150.0K in your current city equals $150.0K in Phoenix, AZ
Based on monthly living costs (rent, groceries, utilities, transport, healthcare). Home purchase prices shown separately below.
Mesa, AZ
Phoenix, AZ
Mesa, AZ
The Grand Canyon State
Located in Arizona, this city has a population of 504K residents.
Phoenix, AZ
The Grand Canyon State
Notable Facts
- •Fastest growing major city
- •Desert metropolis
- •Spring training capital
Major Industries
Cost Breakdown by Category
Annual spending: Mesa, AZ vs Phoenix, AZ
| Category | Mesa, AZ | Phoenix, AZ | Difference | Change |
|---|---|---|---|---|
🏠Housing | $2,788/mo | $2,788/mo | → $0 | 0.0% |
🛒Groceries | $963/mo | $963/mo | → $0 | 0.0% |
🚗Transportation | $1,489/mo | $1,489/mo | → $0 | 0.0% |
⚡All Utilities | $561/mo | $561/mo | → $0 | 0.0% |
🏥Healthcare | $589/mo | $589/mo | → $0 | 0.0% |
📦Other | $1,677/mo | $1,677/mo | → $0 | 0.0% |
🏠Rent Comparison
1BR range: $1,390–$2,030/mo
1BR range: $1,300–$2,380/mo
💡 Note: Rent prices are based on HUD Fair Market Rent data and represent median costs. Actual prices vary by neighborhood, amenities, and condition. Source: HUD Small Area Fair Market Rents FY2026.
Home Values
Homes in Phoenix are 5% more expensive than Mesa
Source: Zillow Home Value Index (ZHVI), January 2026
Tax Comparison
Annual tax burden comparison at $150.0K salary
Mesa, AZ
Phoenix, AZ
Additional Tax Information
Mesa, AZ Tax Rates
Phoenix, AZ Tax Rates
💡 Note: Tax calculations are estimates based on 2024/2025 tax brackets for single filers with standard deduction. Actual taxes may vary based on filing status, deductions, credits, and local variations.
Environment
Where your money goes further
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