Cost of Living in First Mesa, AZ

With a cost of living index of 60, First Mesa, AZ is one of the most affordable cities in the country. Living here is 40% cheaper than the national average and 29% below the Arizona state average of 89. First Mesa is a small community of 1,381 residents.

Housing costs are the biggest factor in First Mesa's cost of living. The median monthly rent is $731 (45% below the US median of $1,319), and the median home value sits at $57,100 (81% below the national median of $304,900). At current prices, the median home costs roughly 1.1x the median household income — well within traditional affordability guidelines.

The median household income in First Mesa is $53,173, which is 29% lower than the national median of $75,149. Residents spend roughly 16% of household income on rent. This is a comfortable ratio, well below the 30% threshold that financial experts recommend as a maximum. Lower incomes here are balanced by the significantly lower cost of living, stretching each dollar further.

Climate is another factor for anyone considering a move to First Mesa. The area sees an average annual temperature of 56.7°F, with summers averaging 77°F and winters around 37°F. Annual rainfall totals 6.5 inches spread over roughly 49 days.

Data sources: US Census Bureau (ACS 2023), Zillow Home Values, HUD Fair Market Rents, BEA Regional Price Parities, BLS Average Prices, and NOAA Climate Normals. Updated monthly.