Mesa, AZ vs Downey, CA: 107 vs 169

$1,478/mo ↓ 22%

Median Rent

$1,892/mo ↑ 28%

$78,779/yr ↓ 10%

Median Income

$87,400/yr ↑ 11%

$364,300 ↓ 50%

Home Value

$728,500 ↑ 100%

$1,404/mo ↓ 30%

Owner Costs

$1,997/mo ↑ 42%

507,478

Population

111,793

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Mesa, AZ and Downey, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 107 and 169 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $414/month cheaper in Mesa, saving renters about $4,968/year.

Median household income is $8,621/year higher in Downey. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Mesa is $364,300 compared to $728,500 in Downey.

Arizona has a lower income tax rate, making Mesa slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Mesa vs Downey — common questions

Is Mesa or Downey cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Mesa is cheaper to live in with an index of 107 compared to 169 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Mesa and Downey?

Median rent in Mesa is $1,478/month and in Downey it's $1,892/month — a difference of $414/month.

Which city has higher income, Mesa or Downey?

Median household income is $78,779 in Mesa and $87,400 in Downey. Median household income is $8,621/year higher in Downey.

How do taxes compare between Arizona and California?

Arizona has 2.5% income tax, 5.6% sales tax, and 0.62% property tax. California has 13.3% income tax, 7.25% sales tax, and 0.71% property tax.

Should I move to Mesa or Downey?

It depends on your priorities. Mesa has a cost index of 107 with median rent of $1,478/mo, while Downey has a cost index of 169 with rent of $1,892/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Mesa, AZ vs Downey, CA (2026)

Mesa

Downey

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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