Mesa, AZ vs. Apache Junction, AZ: Cost of Living Comparison (2025)
This article provides a cost of living comparison between Mesa and Apache Junction, Arizona. It is perfect for families relocating, professionals choosing between job offers, or anyone comparing the real-life cost of Mesa vs Apache Junction in 2025.
1. Housing Costs
Housing is often the biggest factor in cost of living. Here’s how typical housing expenses compare between Mesa and Apache Junction:
| Housing Type | Mesa | Apache Junction |
|---|---|---|
| Median 2BR Apartment Rent | $1,450 | $1,100 |
| Median 3BR Home Price | $450,000 | $350,000 |
🏆 Winner: Apache Junction
2. Utilities and Energy Costs
In Mesa, expect to pay around $180 per month for electricity, gas, water, and trash for a 2BR apartment. Costs are about 10% lower in Apache Junction, averaging $160 monthly.
Both cities have very hot summers, so budget more for AC from June to September. Many utilities offer off-peak and seasonal plans to help manage costs.
🏆 Winner: Apache Junction
3. Groceries and Daily Expenses
Groceries and everyday items cost about the same in Mesa and Apache Junction. Budget around $400 per person monthly for food, toiletries, and basic household goods in either city.
Eating out is also comparable, with a meal for two at a mid-range restaurant averaging $50-60 in both Mesa and Apache Junction.
🏆 Winner: Tie
4. Taxes and Fees
Arizona’s statewide sales tax is 5.6%. Mesa adds a 1.75% city tax (7.35% total), while Apache Junction’s is 2.4% (8% total). Property taxes are similar – expect to pay around 0.6% of your home’s assessed value annually in either city.
In Mesa, HOA fees often include landscaping and trash, ranging from $200-400 monthly. Apache Junction has fewer HOAs, so budget separately for those services if needed.
🏆 Winner: Mesa
5. Cost Summary
| Category | Mesa | Apache Junction |
|---|---|---|
| Housing (2BR Rent) | $1,450 | $1,100 |
| Utilities | $180 | $160 |
| Groceries (1 person) | $400 | $400 |
| Transportation | $60 | $80 |
| Misc | $250 | $250 |
| Estimated Monthly Total (pre-tax) | $2,340 | $1,990 |
6. Lifestyle Fit
Mesa offers more urban amenities, diverse neighborhoods, and a shorter commute to Phoenix. It’s pricier but walkable and bikeable in many areas.
Apache Junction has a small-town feel with more affordable housing, especially for families. Summers average 5°F cooler than Mesa, but there’s less public transit and longer commutes.
7. FAQ
- Is Mesa more affordable than Apache Junction? Overall, Apache Junction is about 15% cheaper than Mesa, mainly due to lower housing costs.
- Which city has lower rent? Apache Junction rent averages $350 less per month than Mesa for a 2BR apartment.
- Where is it cheaper to buy a home? Apache Junction home prices are around $100K lower than comparable homes in Mesa.
8. Conclusion
For tight budgets, Apache Junction offers better housing value and a lower overall cost of living than Mesa. It’s great for those who prefer a quieter, suburban lifestyle and don’t mind driving more.
However, Mesa is still relatively affordable for a mid-size city. It’s a better fit for commuters and anyone who values diverse amenities and a more walkable, bikeable community. To see monthly budget examples for Mesa residents or learn more, check out our full cost of living guide to Mesa.
Mesa, AZ vs. Apache Junction, AZ: Cost of Living Comparison (2025)
This article provides a cost of living comparison between Mesa and Apache Junction, Arizona. It is perfect for families relocating, professionals choosing between job offers, or anyone comparing the real-life cost of Mesa vs Apache Junction in 2025.
1. Housing Costs
Housing is often the biggest factor in cost of living. Here’s how typical housing expenses compare between Mesa and Apache Junction:
| Housing Type | Mesa | Apache Junction |
|---|---|---|
| Median 2BR Apartment Rent | $1,450 | $1,100 |
| Median 3BR Home Price | $450,000 | $350,000 |
🏆 Winner: Apache Junction
2. Utilities and Energy Costs
In Mesa, expect to pay around $180 per month for electricity, gas, water, and trash for a 2BR apartment. Costs are about 10% lower in Apache Junction, averaging $160 monthly.
Both cities have very hot summers, so budget more for AC from June to September. Many utilities offer off-peak and seasonal plans to help manage costs.
🏆 Winner: Apache Junction
3. Groceries and Daily Expenses
Groceries and everyday items cost about the same in Mesa and Apache Junction. Budget around $400 per person monthly for food, toiletries, and basic household goods in either city.
Eating out is also comparable, with a meal for two at a mid-range restaurant averaging $50-60 in both Mesa and Apache Junction.
🏆 Winner: Tie
4. Taxes and Fees
Arizona’s statewide sales tax is 5.6%. Mesa adds a 1.75% city tax (7.35% total), while Apache Junction’s is 2.4% (8% total). Property taxes are similar – expect to pay around 0.6% of your home’s assessed value annually in either city.
In Mesa, HOA fees often include landscaping and trash, ranging from $200-400 monthly. Apache Junction has fewer HOAs, so budget separately for those services if needed.
🏆 Winner: Mesa
5. Cost Summary
| Category | Mesa | Apache Junction |
|---|---|---|
| Housing (2BR Rent) | $1,450 | $1,100 |
| Utilities | $180 | $160 |
| Groceries (1 person) | $400 | $400 |
| Transportation | $60 | $80 |
| Misc | $250 | $250 |
| Estimated Monthly Total (pre-tax) | $2,340 | $1,990 |
6. Lifestyle Fit
Mesa offers more urban amenities, diverse neighborhoods, and a shorter commute to Phoenix. It’s pricier but walkable and bikeable in many areas.
Apache Junction has a small-town feel with more affordable housing, especially for families. Summers average 5°F cooler than Mesa, but there’s less public transit and longer commutes.
7. FAQ
- Is Mesa more affordable than Apache Junction? Overall, Apache Junction is about 15% cheaper than Mesa, mainly due to lower housing costs.
- Which city has lower rent? Apache Junction rent averages $350 less per month than Mesa for a 2BR apartment.
- Where is it cheaper to buy a home? Apache Junction home prices are around $100K lower than comparable homes in Mesa.
8. Conclusion
For tight budgets, Apache Junction offers better housing value and a lower overall cost of living than Mesa. It’s great for those who prefer a quieter, suburban lifestyle and don’t mind driving more.
However, Mesa is still relatively affordable for a mid-size city. It’s a better fit for commuters and anyone who values diverse amenities and a more walkable, bikeable community. To see monthly budget examples for Mesa residents or learn more, check out our full cost of living guide to Mesa.