Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Mesa, AZ
Looking to move to Mesa, AZ? With a population of over 512,000, Mesa offers affordable living—median home prices around $399,000 and average rents near $1,540. Residents enjoy a sunny climate with 86% sunny days and mild winters, plus a manageable 26.6-minute average commute. The city features a diverse community, access to quality healthcare, and a range of education options including Mesa Community College. While property crime is a bit higher than average, Mesa’s desert lifestyle, economic opportunities, and great weather make it a standout spot for newcomers.
Demographics - Mesa, AZ
Mesa, Arizona is home to over 512,000 residents, featuring a balanced gender ratio and a median age of 36.9 years. The city boasts a diverse population, with significant Hispanic or Latino and White communities, and nearly one in four residents speaking a language other than English at home. This diversity contributes to a vibrant cultural atmosphere ideal for families and newcomers alike.
Population:
512,498
Density:
3,900 per sq mi
Median Age:
36.9
Gender Ratio:
98 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
23.8%
Ethnic Composition
White:
60.1%
Black:
3.4%
Asian:
2.2%
Others:
3.2%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Mesa, AZ?
Mesa offers a moderate cost of living, with a median home value of approximately $399,000 and average monthly rents near $1,540. Utility and transportation costs are close to national averages, and state income taxes remain relatively low. These factors make Mesa an attractive choice for those seeking affordable desert living in the Phoenix metropolitan area.
Median House Value:
$399,000
Gross Rent:
$1,540
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$150
Auto Insurance:
$1,480
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,880
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$570
State Taxes:
Low:
2.59%
|
High:
4.5%
Cost Of Living Index:
108.0
Grocery:
98.7
Housing:
112.5
Utilities:
101.2
Transportation:
101.0
Health Care:
97.6
Miscellaneous:
102.0
Crime
Is Mesa, AZ a safe place to live?
Mesa experiences a slightly higher property crime rate compared to national averages, with about 2,318 property crimes per 100,000 residents. However, violent crime remains comparatively low, giving residents a 1 in 275 chance of being affected. While it’s wise to stay vigilant, most neighborhoods are generally safe and welcoming.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
364
Property Crimes Per 100k:
2,318
Crime Index:
2,682
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 275
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 43
Weather
What is the weather like in Mesa, AZ year-round?
Residents of Mesa enjoy a sunny, dry climate with 86% of days bright and clear, and less than 10 inches of annual rainfall. Winters are mild, with average highs in the upper 60s, while summers can be hot, reaching highs over 100°F. This weather is ideal for outdoor activities, especially during the cooler months.
Winter
Min:
41°F
Max:
68°F
Spring
Min:
54°F
Max:
87°F
Summer
Min:
77°F
Max:
106°F
Fall
Min:
55°F
Max:
89°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
9.2 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
86%
Neighbors
Mesa’s neighborhoods feature a median household income of $65,700 and a low unemployment rate of 3.6%, reflecting a stable local economy. Most residents have at least a high school diploma, and commute times average about 27 minutes. The area is welcoming and diverse, with a strong sense of community and affordable living costs.
Median Income:
$39,800
Household Income:
$65,700
Family Income:
$76,300
Per Capita Income:
$31,700
Income Male:
$41,000
Income Female:
$32,500
Poverty Rate:
13.5%
Non English Speakers:
23.8%
Rent:
$1,540
Unemployment Rate:
3.6%
Public Transport Usage:
2.1%
Commute Time:
26.6 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
89.2%
Bachelors or More:
26.7%
Education
How are the schools in Mesa, AZ?
Mesa offers diverse educational opportunities, including well-regarded public and private schools and higher education options like Mesa Community College. Local schools cater to a range of student needs, and the city’s proximity to Arizona State University in Tempe provides additional academic and cultural resources. Families benefit from a supportive educational environment and a variety of quality institutions.
Public Schools
Name:
Mesa High School
Street:
1630 E Southern Ave
Phone:
480-472-5900
Students:
3,300
Student Teacher Ratio:
22.1
Name:
Franklin at Alma Elementary
Street:
1313 W Medina Ave
Phone:
480-472-3900
Students:
650
Student Teacher Ratio:
19.4
Private Schools
Name:
Red Mountain Montessori Academy
Street:
6426 E McKellips Rd
Phone:
480-654-9909
Students:
210
Colleges
Name:
Mesa Community College
City:
Mesa
State:
AZ
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
16,500
Name:
Arizona State University – Tempe
City:
Tempe
State:
AZ
Distance:
8 miles
Students:
77,881
Healthcare
Mesa offers convenient access to quality healthcare, including major hospitals like Banner Desert Medical Center and Mountain Vista Medical Center, both providing emergency services. With 2.1 physicians per 1,000 residents and nearly 89% of people having health insurance, healthcare is accessible and reliable for families and individuals.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Banner Desert Medical Center
Address:
1400 S Dobson Rd, Mesa, AZ 85202
Phone:
(480) 412-3000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
Mountain Vista Medical Center
Address:
1301 S Crismon Rd, Mesa, AZ 85209
Phone:
(480) 358-6100
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.1
Health Insurance Coverage:
88.6%
Health Care Index:
77.0
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Mesa, AZ?
Mesa’s housing market is competitive, with a median home price of $399,000 and a high owner-occupancy rate of nearly 64%. Rental options are widely available, with average two-bedroom rents at $1,540 and a rental vacancy rate of 6.8%. Home values have appreciated steadily, making the city appealing for both buyers and renters.
Median Home Price:
$399,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$1,540
Owner Occupied Rate:
63.8%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
6.8%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
4.3%
New Construction Rate:
2.2%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.7%
DMV Information
Mesa residents are served by the Arizona Department of Transportation’s Motor Vehicle Division, conveniently located at 4123 E Valley Auto Dr. The office provides full DMV services, and information is easily accessible online or by phone. Registering vehicles and obtaining licenses is straightforward and efficient for newcomers.
State:
Arizona
Department:
Arizona Department of Transportation – Motor Vehicle Division
Address:
4123 E Valley Auto Dr, Mesa, AZ 85206
Phone:
602-255-0072
Website:
Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is based on publicly available sources including AccuWeather, U.S. Census Bureau, local government data, and third-party partners such as Neustar. While we strive to ensure accuracy, all data is provided “as is” and should be independently verified before making any decisions. Movers.com makes no guarantees regarding the completeness or reliability of the information.