Clifton, AZ vs First Mesa, AZ

Clifton is moderately more affordable than First Mesa, with a 5.8% lower cost of living index. Clifton scores 57 compared to 60 for First Mesa, where the US average is 100. This difference means residents of First Mesa can expect to pay noticeably more for everyday expenses, housing, and services.

On the housing front, median rent in Clifton is $592/month compared to $731/month in First Mesa — a 19% difference. Interestingly, home values tell a different story: while Clifton has cheaper rent, First Mesa actually has lower median home values ($57,100 vs $66,000).

Median household income in Clifton is $84,457 compared to $53,173 in First Mesa (+58.8%). Clifton offers a double advantage: higher earnings combined with a lower cost of living, giving residents significantly more purchasing power. Looking at affordability, residents of Clifton spend roughly 8.4% of their income on rent, less than the 16.5% in First Mesa.

Climate-wise, Clifton is notably warmer with an average of 66.4°F compared to 56.7°F in First Mesa. Clifton receives more rainfall at 8" per year compared to 6.5" in First Mesa.