Mesa, AZ vs Santa Ana, CA: 107 vs 163

$1,478/mo ↓ 25%

Median Rent

$1,975/mo ↑ 34%

$78,779/yr ↓ 11%

Median Income

$88,354/yr ↑ 12%

$364,300 ↓ 45%

Home Value

$657,800 ↑ 81%

$1,404/mo ↓ 29%

Owner Costs

$1,965/mo ↑ 40%

507,478

Population

311,639

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Mesa, AZ and Santa Ana, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 107 and 163 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $497/month cheaper in Mesa, saving renters about $5,964/year.

Median household income is $9,575/year higher in Santa Ana. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Mesa is $364,300 compared to $657,800 in Santa Ana.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Mesa vs Santa Ana — common questions

Is Mesa or Santa Ana cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Mesa is cheaper to live in with an index of 107 compared to 163 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Mesa and Santa Ana?

Median rent in Mesa is $1,478/month and in Santa Ana it's $1,975/month — a difference of $497/month.

Which city has higher income, Mesa or Santa Ana?

Median household income is $78,779 in Mesa and $88,354 in Santa Ana. Median household income is $9,575/year higher in Santa Ana.

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 Santa Ana?

It depends on your priorities. Mesa has a cost index of 107 with median rent of $1,478/mo, while Santa Ana has a cost index of 163 with rent of $1,975/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

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

Mesa

Santa Ana

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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