Philadelphia, PA vs Mesa, AZ: 85 vs 107

$1,323/mo ↓ 10%

Median Rent

$1,478/mo ↑ 12%

$60,698/yr ↓ 23%

Median Income

$78,779/yr ↑ 30%

$232,400 ↓ 36%

Home Value

$364,300 ↑ 57%

$1,233/mo ↓ 12%

Owner Costs

$1,404/mo ↑ 14%

1,582,432

Population

507,478

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Philadelphia, PA and Mesa, AZ, the overall cost of living indices are 85 and 107 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $155/month cheaper in Philadelphia, saving renters about $1,860/year.

Median household income is $18,081/year higher in Mesa. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Philadelphia is $232,400 compared to $364,300 in Mesa.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Philadelphia vs Mesa — common questions

Is Philadelphia or Mesa cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Philadelphia is cheaper to live in with an index of 85 compared to 107 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Philadelphia and Mesa?

Median rent in Philadelphia is $1,323/month and in Mesa it's $1,478/month — a difference of $155/month.

Which city has higher income, Philadelphia or Mesa?

Median household income is $60,698 in Philadelphia and $78,779 in Mesa. Median household income is $18,081/year higher in Mesa.

How do taxes compare between Pennsylvania and Arizona?

Pennsylvania has 3.07% income tax, 6.0% sales tax, and 1.49% property tax. Arizona has 2.5% income tax, 5.6% sales tax, and 0.62% property tax.

Should I move to Philadelphia or Mesa?

It depends on your priorities. Philadelphia has a cost index of 85 with median rent of $1,323/mo, while Mesa has a cost index of 107 with rent of $1,478/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Philadelphia, PA vs Mesa, AZ (2026)

Philadelphia

Mesa

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

More Comparisons