Mesquite is considered moderately affordable in 2025, with average rent for a 2-bedroom apartment around $1,450 per month and slightly lower utility costs compared to the national average.
Is the true cost of living in Mesquite higher than you think? Let’s take an in-depth look at the monthly expenses you can expect when living in this Dallas suburb in 2025.
Housing Costs in Mesquite
Mesquite offers a mix of housing options, from apartments and townhomes to single-family houses. Rental prices vary based on neighborhood and property type:
- 1-bedroom apartment: $1,100 – $1,400
- 2-bedroom apartment: $1,300 – $1,600
- 3-bedroom house: $1,800 – $2,400
Buying a home in Mesquite is relatively affordable compared to other Dallas suburbs. A typical 3-bedroom, 2-bath house ranges from $280,000 to $350,000, depending on the neighborhood and property age. Some neighborhoods have optional HOA fees, which can add $50 – $200 per month.
Newer developments on the city’s edges, like Mesquite Hills and Creek Crossing, tend to have higher prices and more amenities. Older, established neighborhoods closer to downtown offer more affordable options with a tradeoff of smaller lot sizes.
Utilities and Energy Bills
Basic utility costs in Mesquite are slightly lower than the national average. Here’s a breakdown of what you might expect to pay each month:
| Utility | Estimated Monthly Cost |
|---|---|
| Electricity | $120 – $180 |
| Water | $30 – $50 |
| Gas | $20 – $40 |
| Trash/Recycling | $15 – $25 |
| Internet | $50 – $80 |
Keep in mind that electricity costs can spike in the summer months due to high air conditioning usage. Choosing an energy-efficient home or apartment can help keep utility bills manageable.
Groceries and Daily Expenses
Grocery prices in Mesquite are on par with the Dallas-Fort Worth metro area. Expect to spend around $300 – $400 per person per month on groceries and household items. This assumes a mix of cooking at home and occasional dining out.
For example, a gallon of milk typically costs $3.50, a dozen eggs around $2.80, and a loaf of bread about $2.50. Dining out at a mid-range restaurant averages $15 – $25 per person.
Taxes and Fees
Mesquite’s property tax rate is 2.7%, which is slightly higher than the national average but typical for the Dallas area. For a $300,000 home, annual property taxes would be approximately $8,100.
Texas has no state income tax, which can help offset the higher property taxes. However, there is an 8.25% sales tax on most purchases. Vehicle registration fees are also relatively high, averaging $50 – $90 per year depending on the vehicle type.
Monthly Cost of Living in Mesquite
So what does it really cost to live comfortably in Mesquite? Here’s a sample monthly budget breakdown:
| Expense Category | Single Person | Couple | Family of 4 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Housing (rent/mortgage) | $1,200 | $1,500 | $2,000 |
| Utilities | $200 | $280 | $400 |
| Groceries & dining out | $400 | $700 | $1,200 |
| Transportation | $300 | $500 | $800 |
| Healthcare | $250 | $500 | $800 |
| Other (entertainment, shopping, etc) | $400 | $600 | $1,000 |
| Total Monthly Expenses | $2,750 | $4,080 | $6,200 |
| Comfortable Gross Monthly Income (pre-tax) | $3,600 | $5,300 | $8,100 |
Keep in mind these are estimates and your actual costs may vary based on your lifestyle and specific needs. But in general, a gross monthly income of at least $3,600 for a single person, $5,300 for a couple, or $8,100 for a family of four would provide a comfortable lifestyle in Mesquite.
Lifestyle Considerations
When deciding if Mesquite fits your budget, it’s important to also consider lifestyle factors. Mesquite offers a suburban feel with relatively easy access to Dallas, which is about a 20-30 minute drive. Many residents commute into the city for work.
Mesquite itself has a growing number of jobs, especially in healthcare, education, and retail. The city also boasts ample parks, recreation centers, and family-friendly amenities. However, for major cultural attractions, nightlife, or niche career opportunities, Dallas is still the go-to destination.
Newer homes in Mesquite’s developing areas provide modern features and more square footage, but with less established neighborhoods and longer commutes. Older homes closer to the city center are more affordable and walkable, but may require more maintenance or updates.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Mesquite cheaper than living in Dallas?
Yes, Mesquite is generally more affordable than Dallas proper. Housing costs, in particular, tend to be 20-30% lower in Mesquite.
Are utilities expensive in Mesquite?
Utilities in Mesquite are slightly lower than the national average. However, electricity costs can rise in summer due to high air conditioning use.
How much do I need to make to live comfortably in Mesquite?
A gross monthly income of at least $3,600 for a single person, $5,300 for a couple, or $8,100 for a family of four would allow for a comfortable lifestyle in Mesquite, assuming a typical budget breakdown.
Is Mesquite a good place to buy a house?
Mesquite can be a great place to buy an affordable home with a suburban lifestyle and relatively easy access to Dallas. However, property taxes are on the higher side.
What is the sales tax rate in Mesquite?
The sales tax rate in Mesquite is 8.25%, which includes the Texas state sales tax of 6.25% plus a 2% local tax.
Is there a state income tax in Texas?
No, Texas is one of a handful of states that does not impose a state income tax. This can help offset the higher property and sales taxes.
How does the cost of living in Mesquite compare to other Dallas suburbs?
Mesquite is on the more affordable end of Dallas suburbs. Cities like Plano, Frisco, and McKinney tend to have higher housing costs, while suburbs like Garland and Irving are more comparable to Mesquite.