Mesa, AZ vs Ontario, CA: 107 vs 152

$1,478/mo ↓ 23%

Median Rent

$1,916/mo ↑ 30%

$78,779/yr ↓ 5%

Median Income

$82,806/yr ↑ 5%

$364,300 ↓ 36%

Home Value

$568,000 ↑ 56%

$1,404/mo ↓ 29%

Owner Costs

$1,967/mo ↑ 40%

507,478

Population

178,347

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Mesa, AZ and Ontario, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 107 and 152 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $438/month cheaper in Mesa, saving renters about $5,256/year.

Median household income is $4,027/year higher in Ontario. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Mesa is $364,300 compared to $568,000 in Ontario.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Mesa vs Ontario — common questions

Is Mesa or Ontario cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Mesa is cheaper to live in with an index of 107 compared to 152 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Mesa and Ontario?

Median rent in Mesa is $1,478/month and in Ontario it's $1,916/month — a difference of $438/month.

Which city has higher income, Mesa or Ontario?

Median household income is $78,779 in Mesa and $82,806 in Ontario. Median household income is $4,027/year higher in Ontario.

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 Ontario?

It depends on your priorities. Mesa has a cost index of 107 with median rent of $1,478/mo, while Ontario has a cost index of 152 with rent of $1,916/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

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

Mesa

Ontario

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

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