Mesa, AZ vs Elk Grove, CA: 107 vs 168

$1,478/mo ↓ 32%

Median Rent

$2,180/mo ↑ 47%

$78,779/yr ↓ 36%

Median Income

$122,229/yr ↑ 55%

$364,300 ↓ 40%

Home Value

$603,400 ↑ 66%

$1,404/mo ↓ 37%

Owner Costs

$2,227/mo ↑ 59%

507,478

Population

177,221

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Mesa, AZ and Elk Grove, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 107 and 168 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $702/month cheaper in Mesa, saving renters about $8,424/year.

Median household income is $43,450/year higher in Elk Grove. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Mesa is $364,300 compared to $603,400 in Elk Grove.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Mesa vs Elk Grove — common questions

Is Mesa or Elk Grove cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Mesa is cheaper to live in with an index of 107 compared to 168 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Mesa and Elk Grove?

Median rent in Mesa is $1,478/month and in Elk Grove it's $2,180/month — a difference of $702/month.

Which city has higher income, Mesa or Elk Grove?

Median household income is $78,779 in Mesa and $122,229 in Elk Grove. Median household income is $43,450/year higher in Elk Grove.

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 Elk Grove?

It depends on your priorities. Mesa has a cost index of 107 with median rent of $1,478/mo, while Elk Grove has a cost index of 168 with rent of $2,180/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

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

Mesa

Elk Grove

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

More Comparisons