Mesa, AZ vs Irvine, CA: 107 vs 256

$1,478/mo ↓ 49%

Median Rent

$2,893/mo ↑ 96%

$78,779/yr ↓ 39%

Median Income

$129,647/yr ↑ 65%

$364,300 ↓ 67%

Home Value

$1,115,400 ↑ 206%

$1,404/mo ↓ 52%

Owner Costs

$2,904/mo ↑ 107%

507,478

Population

308,160

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Mesa, AZ and Irvine, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 107 and 256 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $1,415/month cheaper in Mesa, saving renters about $16,980/year.

Median household income is $50,868/year higher in Irvine. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Mesa is $364,300 compared to $1,115,400 in Irvine.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Mesa vs Irvine — common questions

Is Mesa or Irvine cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Mesa is cheaper to live in with an index of 107 compared to 256 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Mesa and Irvine?

Median rent in Mesa is $1,478/month and in Irvine it's $2,893/month — a difference of $1,415/month.

Which city has higher income, Mesa or Irvine?

Median household income is $78,779 in Mesa and $129,647 in Irvine. Median household income is $50,868/year higher in Irvine.

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 Irvine?

It depends on your priorities. Mesa has a cost index of 107 with median rent of $1,478/mo, while Irvine has a cost index of 256 with rent of $2,893/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

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

Mesa

Irvine

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

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