Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
44% cheaper
Mesa is 44% more affordable than Irvine. A $75,000 salary in Irvine is equivalent to $41,713 in Mesa.
Index values shown. National average = 100. Lower is cheaper.
To maintain the same standard of living:
See exact take-home pay: California salaries · Arizona salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Irvine has a housing index of 294 while Mesa sits at 98 (national average = 100). The median home in Irvine costs $1,050,000 compared to $350,000 in Mesa, a difference of $700,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $3,000 in Irvine versus $1,350 in Mesa.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a notable difference: Irvine scores 108 while Mesa scores 99.
Healthcare costs in Irvine (109) are higher than Mesa (95).
Median household income in Irvine is $108,038 compared to $60,234 in Mesa. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Mesa.
Amazon affiliate links