Mesa, Arizona is known for its character and diverse attractions, from stunning desert landscapes to a vibrant arts scene and deep cultural roots. However, is Mesa a great place to live? While the city is filled with abundant outdoor opportunities and tight-knit communities, it comes with its own set of obstacles. In this Redfin article, we’ll explore the pros and cons of living in Mesa to help you decide if it’s right for you.
Interested in moving to Mesa? Check:
Mesa, AZ Homes for Sale | Apartments for Rent in Mesa, AZ | Mesa Arizona Houses for Rent
Basic information about Mesa
| Median home sales price | $449,000 |
| average monthly rent | $1,425 |
| walk score | 38/100 |
| traffic score | 27/100 |
| bike score | 60/100 |
1. Advantages: plenty of sunshine
Mesa has over 300 days of sunshine each year, making it a paradise for those who love warm weather and outdoor activities. Consistently sunny weather allows residents to enjoy golf, hiking and other outdoor activities year-round. For example, Usery Mountain Regional Park has excellent hiking trails and stunning desert landscapes. While constant sunshine is definitely a plus of living in this city, summer does bring sweltering heat. More on this below.
2. Disadvantages: extremely hot in summer
While sunlight is a significant advantage, the summer heat can be a disadvantage. During the peak of summer, temperatures in Mesa can soar to over 110°F, making outdoor activities challenging and sometimes dangerous. Residents often must rely heavily on air conditioning, which can result in higher energy bills. Additionally, you need to understand how extreme heat can affect your home so you can stay safe.
3. Pros: Great museums and festivals
Home to numerous museums and cultural centers, Mesa offers many opportunities to celebrate history and diversity. For example, the Mesa Center for the Arts is the largest comprehensive arts campus in the state, offering a variety of performances, exhibitions, and educational programs. The city also hosts several annual cultural festivals, such as the Mesa Music Festival, which attract artists and visitors from across the country.
4. Cons: Minimal transportation options
One of the downsides of living in Mesa is the limited public transportation options. While there are some bus routes and light rail systems, the Transit Score is 27, meaning they may not be as extensive or convenient as larger urban areas. This makes commuting without a car challenging, especially for those living on the outskirts of the city. As a result, many residents find themselves relying on private vehicles.
5. Advantages: The city center is suitable for cycling
Mesa is one of the most bike-friendly cities in Arizona, with a network of well-maintained bike lanes and scenic trails that cater to cyclists of all skill levels. From leisurely rides along the Salt River to challenging mountain biking excursions in Ussery Mountain Regional Park, Mesa offers cyclists abundant opportunities to explore its diverse terrain.
6. Disadvantages: Limited nightlife
For those who enjoy a vibrant nightlife, Mesa may feel a little lacking. The city has fewer bars, clubs, and late-night entertainment options than neighboring cities like Tempe or Phoenix. While there are some local attractions to visit, the options are more limited and residents often have to travel to nearby cities for a more lively nightlife experience.
7. Advantages: Rich entertainment activities
Mesa is a paradise for outdoor recreation, offering a variety of activities amid stunning desert landscapes. Residents can hike the rugged trails of the Superstition Mountains, kayak along the tranquil waters of Saguaro Lake, or play a round of golf at city championship courses like Las Sendas Golf Club. With year-round sunshine and a variety of outdoor amenities, Mesa is a great place to live.
8. Disadvantages: Air quality issues
Mesa’s air quality can be a concern, especially in the summer when ozone levels tend to rise. The city’s location in a desert valley can lead to a buildup of pollutants that can affect the health of residents, especially those with respiratory illnesses. Sand and dust storms are also common and can temporarily worsen air quality.
9. Advantages: Close to natural attractions
Mesa’s location provides easy access to a variety of natural attractions, making it a great base for adventure. The city is just a short drive from the Tonto National Forest, where residents can enjoy hiking, camping and fishing. Additionally, the nearby Salt River offers rafting and kayaking opportunities. This closeness to nature allows residents to escape the urban environment and enjoy Arizona’s beautiful scenery.
10. Disadvantages: urban sprawl
Mesa has experienced significant growth over the years, resulting in urban expansion. This expansion could result in longer commute times and increased traffic congestion, especially during rush hours. The fragmented nature of cities also makes it difficult to access amenities and services without a car. While growth brings new opportunities and developments, it also creates infrastructure and transportation challenges.
method: Median home sales price and average monthly rent data come from Redfin Information Center. Walk score, transit score, and bike score data come from walk score.
