Moving to a new city is a significant decision, and it’s essential to gather as much information as possible to ensure a smooth transition. If you’re considering relocating to Mesa, Arizona, you’re in for a treat. Located in the heart of the Sonoran Desert, Mesa offers a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and modern amenities. As the third-largest city in Arizona and part of the bustling Phoenix metropolitan area, Mesa attracts residents from all over the country with its sunny climate, affordable living, and thriving community spirit.

Mesa’s popularity as a residential choice is no surprise given its diverse array of attractions and opportunities. Whether you’re drawn to the city’s extensive outdoor activities, its vibrant arts scene, or its robust job market, Mesa has something to offer everyone. Families, young professionals, retirees, and students all find Mesa to be a welcoming and dynamic place to call home.

The purpose of this blog is to provide you with essential insights and practical information to help you decide if Mesa is the right fit for you. We’ll explore various aspects of living in Mesa, including the cost of living, job opportunities, lifestyle and recreational activities, top neighborhoods, and some additional considerations you should be aware of before making your move. By the end of this post, you’ll have a well-rounded understanding of what to expect when moving to Mesa, Arizona.

Mesa Is The 3rd Largest City In Arizona With A Very Strategic Location

Living in Mesa, Arizona offers a unique perk: its strategic location. Picture this: within just 6 hours, you could be soaking up the sun in San Diego, strolling along the streets of Los Angeles, trying your luck in Las Vegas, or marveling at the Grand Canyon.

This makes Mesa an absolute paradise for the adventurous souls among us. Whether you’re craving the excitement of a big city or the awe-inspiring wonders of nature, Mesa puts you within reach of it all. It’s also one of the most populated areas in Arizona, home to 500,000 people.

So, when you’re weighing your options, remember Mesa’s unbeatable location is just one more reason why it might be the perfect place for you. Whether it’s the vibrant city life or the natural beauty of the surrounding areas, Mesa has something for everyone.

Weather Here Gets Really Hot

Now, let’s address the elephant in the room: the scorching summers. It’s no surprise that Arizona, with its reputation as the “devil’s butthole,” guarantees some serious heat. The summer months see average temperatures soaring between 103 and 105 degrees Fahrenheit. It’s so hot that even traffic takes a break! But fear not, because just as the heat turns up, the winters bring relief, with significantly cooler temperatures.

Cost Of Living in Mesa, AZ

Mesa, Arizona, is known for its slightly higher cost of living compared to the national average. However, it’s important to break down these costs to understand what contributes to this difference and how it might affect your budget.

The average home value in Mesa, AZ is $442,401, showing a 4.4% increase over the past year, with properties typically going pending in around 16 days. This upward trend contributes to Mesa’s overall cost of living index of 104.2, reflecting a 4.2% increase compared to the national average of 100. This slight rise is mainly attributed to elevated housing and transportation costs, while expenses such as groceries, healthcare, and utilities remain generally comparable to or below the national average.

Here is a breakdown of each neighborhood median home price in Mesa, AZ:

Median Listing Home Price Of All Neighborhoods In Mesa, AZ

Neighborhood Median Listing Home Price
Dobson Ranch $550K
Las Sendas $785.6K
The Groves $679K
Falcon Field $492K
Fountain of the Sun $369.5K
Sunland Springs Village $537.5K
Superstition Springs $510K
Carriage Manor
Augusta Ranch $525K
Sunland Village East $369.9K
Sunland Village $365K
Citrus $1.8M
Parkwood Ranch $440K
Red Mountain Ranch $650K
Park of the Canals $480K
NCRA $370K
Comite de Families en Accion $409K
Golden Hills $402.5K
West Main $355.5K
Reed Park $400K

Mesa Has A Lot To Do & Explore

Moving to Mesa, Arizona? Get ready for a vibrant desert experience! There’s so much to do here. Love nature? Explore the Desert Botanical Garden or hike in Usery Mountain Regional Park. Want some culture? Check out the Mesa Arts Center for art shows and performances. And don’t miss the hot air balloon rides for amazing views! Want to explore more? Here is our favorites:

  • Salt River: Enjoy serene waters perfect for kayaking, tubing, or simply relaxing by the river.
  • The Apache Trail: Embark on a scenic drive through rugged terrain, passing by stunning desert vistas and historic sites.
  • Goldfield Ghost Town: Step back in time to the Wild West era and explore this well-preserved ghost town with its old saloons and mine tours.
  • Canyon Lake: Discover the beauty of this picturesque lake nestled amid towering cliffs, ideal for boating, fishing, and hiking.
  • Tortilla Flat: Experience the charm of this tiny historic town, known for its rustic atmosphere, ice cream parlor, and scenic drive.
  • Apache Lake: Dive into adventure with water sports like boating, fishing, and jet skiing on this expansive reservoir surrounded by desert landscapes.
  • Saguaro Lake: Marvel at the stunning views of the Superstition Mountains while enjoying activities like fishing, boating, and picnicking.
  • San Tan Mountain Regional Park: Lace up your hiking boots and explore the desert trails of this park, offering panoramic views and opportunities for wildlife spotting.

Mesa Is A Solid Economy

Mesa has a strong economy and is a great place for young professionals looking for good jobs and affordable living. The city offers many job opportunities in healthcare, education, and manufacturing. Big employers like Boeing, Banner Health, and Mesa Public Schools are based here, giving you lots of chances to grow your career. With major hospitals and schools, you can find jobs in healthcare, teaching, or manufacturing.

Hospitals in Mesa

Of all the important things to know before moving to Mesa, Arizona, healthcare is one of the most crucial. Mesa has many healthcare facilities and hospitals that provide medical care to residents and visitors. The city has several major hospitals, including Banner Desert Medical Center, Banner Baywood Medical Center, and Mountain Vista Medical Center. Besides hospitals, Mesa also has various clinics, urgent care centers, and other medical facilities.

Mesa Is A Good Community

The city boasts a welcoming atmosphere where neighbors become friends, and community events bring people together. Whether you’re into outdoor adventures, cultural activities, or simply socializing with friends, Mesa has something for everyone.

Outdoor Recreation:

Mesa’s natural beauty provides a backdrop for a wide range of outdoor activities. Residents can explore the city’s extensive network of parks, hiking trails, and recreational areas, perfect for picnics, sports, and family outings. The nearby mountains and lakes offer opportunities for hiking, boating, fishing, and camping, allowing residents to reconnect with nature and stay active year-round.

Cultural Activities:

Mesa is rich in cultural heritage, with museums, galleries, and historical sites that celebrate the city’s history and diversity. Residents can immerse themselves in the arts at the Mesa Arts Center, which hosts performances, exhibitions, and educational programs year-round. Additionally, the city’s cultural events, festivals, and concerts showcase local talent and provide opportunities for community engagement and enrichment.

Social Events:

From farmers’ markets to food festivals, Mesa’s social calendar is packed with events that bring people together. Residents can sample local cuisine, browse artisanal goods, and enjoy live music and entertainment at various venues throughout the city. Whether it’s a neighborhood block party or a city-wide celebration, Mesa offers plenty of opportunities for residents to connect, socialize, and have fun.

If You Love Golf You Will Love Mesa

Mesa is a golfer’s paradise with dozens of golf courses to choose from. Some of the top courses in Mesa include Apache Wells Golf Course, Desert Sands Golf Course, Painted Mountain Golf Club, Longbow Golf Club, Arizona Golf Resort, Dobson Ranch Golf Course, Red Mountain Ranch Country Club, Las Sendas Golf Club, Sunland Village East Golf Club, Viewpoint Golf Resort, Toka Sticks Golf Club, and Sunland Springs Golf Club. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out, Mesa has the perfect course for you.