Glendale, AZ vs Mesa, AZ

Glendale, AZ and Mesa, AZ have a very similar cost of living, with only a 3.5% difference in their overall index. Glendale scores 107 while Mesa scores 111 on the cost of living index, where 100 represents the national average. The day-to-day expenses for residents in both cities are comparable, though differences emerge when looking at specific categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Glendale is $1,397/month compared to $1,478/month in Mesa — a 6% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Glendale is more affordable at $347,000 median vs $364,300.

Median household income in Glendale is $70,139 compared to $78,779 in Mesa (-11%). While Mesa is more expensive, its higher salaries more than compensate — residents there may actually end up with more disposable income. Looking at affordability, residents of Glendale spend roughly 23.9% of their income on rent, more than the 22.5% in Mesa.

Climate-wise, Mesa is notably warmer with an average of 75.6°F compared to 72.5°F in Glendale. Glendale receives more rainfall at 8.9" per year compared to 7.2" in Mesa.