Mesa, AZ vs Ventura, CA: 107 vs 183

$1,478/mo ↓ 30%

Median Rent

$2,101/mo ↑ 42%

$78,779/yr ↓ 22%

Median Income

$100,407/yr ↑ 27%

$364,300 ↓ 53%

Home Value

$778,700 ↑ 114%

$1,404/mo ↓ 34%

Owner Costs

$2,118/mo ↑ 51%

507,478

Population

109,900

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Mesa, AZ and Ventura, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 107 and 183 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $623/month cheaper in Mesa, saving renters about $7,476/year.

Median household income is $21,628/year higher in Ventura. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Mesa is $364,300 compared to $778,700 in Ventura.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Mesa vs Ventura — common questions

Is Mesa or Ventura cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Mesa is cheaper to live in with an index of 107 compared to 183 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Mesa and Ventura?

Median rent in Mesa is $1,478/month and in Ventura it's $2,101/month — a difference of $623/month.

Which city has higher income, Mesa or Ventura?

Median household income is $78,779 in Mesa and $100,407 in Ventura. Median household income is $21,628/year higher in Ventura.

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 Ventura?

It depends on your priorities. Mesa has a cost index of 107 with median rent of $1,478/mo, while Ventura has a cost index of 183 with rent of $2,101/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

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

Mesa

Ventura

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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