Mesa, AZ vs Virginia Beach, VA: 107 vs 117

$1,478/mo ↓ 10%

Median Rent

$1,649/mo ↑ 12%

$78,779/yr ↓ 13%

Median Income

$90,685/yr ↑ 15%

$364,300 ≈ Same

Home Value

$366,300 ≈ Same

$1,404/mo ↓ 18%

Owner Costs

$1,704/mo ↑ 21%

507,478

Population

457,066

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Mesa, AZ and Virginia Beach, VA, the overall cost of living indices are 107 and 117 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $171/month cheaper in Mesa, saving renters about $2,052/year.

Median household income is $11,906/year higher in Virginia Beach. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Mesa is $364,300 compared to $366,300 in Virginia Beach.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Mesa vs Virginia Beach — common questions

Is Mesa or Virginia Beach cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Mesa is cheaper to live in with an index of 107 compared to 117 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Mesa and Virginia Beach?

Median rent in Mesa is $1,478/month and in Virginia Beach it's $1,649/month — a difference of $171/month.

Which city has higher income, Mesa or Virginia Beach?

Median household income is $78,779 in Mesa and $90,685 in Virginia Beach. Median household income is $11,906/year higher in Virginia Beach.

How do taxes compare between Arizona and Virginia?

Arizona has 2.5% income tax, 5.6% sales tax, and 0.62% property tax. Virginia has 5.75% income tax, 5.3% sales tax, and 0.8% property tax.

Should I move to Mesa or Virginia Beach?

It depends on your priorities. Mesa has a cost index of 107 with median rent of $1,478/mo, while Virginia Beach has a cost index of 117 with rent of $1,649/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Mesa, AZ vs Virginia Beach, VA (2026)

Mesa

Virginia Beach

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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