San Antonio, TX vs Mesa, AZ: 82 vs 107

$1,258/mo ↓ 15%

Median Rent

$1,478/mo ↑ 17%

$62,917/yr ↓ 20%

Median Income

$78,779/yr ↑ 25%

$219,700 ↓ 40%

Home Value

$364,300 ↑ 66%

$1,235/mo ↓ 12%

Owner Costs

$1,404/mo ↑ 14%

1,458,954

Population

507,478

Detailed Comparison

When comparing San Antonio, TX and Mesa, AZ, the overall cost of living indices are 82 and 107 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $220/month cheaper in San Antonio, saving renters about $2,640/year.

Median household income is $15,862/year higher in Mesa. Home values also differ significantly — the median in San Antonio is $219,700 compared to $364,300 in Mesa.

Texas has no state income tax, giving San Antonio residents a significant tax advantage over Arizona's 2.5% rate.

Frequently Asked Questions

San Antonio vs Mesa — common questions

Is San Antonio or Mesa cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, San Antonio is cheaper to live in with an index of 82 compared to 107 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between San Antonio and Mesa?

Median rent in San Antonio is $1,258/month and in Mesa it's $1,478/month — a difference of $220/month.

Which city has higher income, San Antonio or Mesa?

Median household income is $62,917 in San Antonio and $78,779 in Mesa. Median household income is $15,862/year higher in Mesa.

How do taxes compare between Texas and Arizona?

Texas has 0% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 1.6% property tax. Arizona has 2.5% income tax, 5.6% sales tax, and 0.62% property tax.

Should I move to San Antonio or Mesa?

It depends on your priorities. San Antonio has a cost index of 82 with median rent of $1,258/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: San Antonio, TX vs Mesa, AZ (2026)

San Antonio

Mesa

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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