Mesa is a fast-growing city known for its peaceful atmosphere and modern advancements. It has a warm climate, an affordable cost of living, and access to numerous outdoor activities, which makes it ideal for people of all ages. However, the main question is “Is Mesa, AZ a Good Place To Live?” So if you’re planning to move here, this blog will tell you what it’s really like to live in Mesa and help you decide if it’s the right place for you to call home.
Pros and Cons of Living in Mesa, AZ
When deciding if Mesa, Arizona, is the right place for you, it’s important to research the advantages and disadvantages. Let’s break down the key pros and cons to help you understand what life in Mesa might be like.
Pros of Living in Mesa, AZ
Affordable Housing
One of the biggest pros of living in Mesa, AZ, is the affordable housing. Compared to nearby cities like Phoenix and Scottsdale, housing in Mesa is much more budget-friendly. Whether you’re looking to rent or buy, you can find various options that fit your financial situation. You can easily find single-family houses, condos, and townhomes and renting is also convenient as Mesa has lower-than-average rental prices. As per Zillow’s reports, the average home value is $439,750 while the median rent is $1,995 per month.
Warm, Sunny Climate
With over 300 days of sunshine each year, Mesa’s weather is perfect for those who love outdoor activities. The consistent sunshine makes it easy to enjoy outdoor activities year-round, from hiking and biking to playing golf or visiting local parks. You can take advantage of the nearby lakes, trails, and mountains without worrying about rain or snow disrupting your plans. As compared to other cities, Mesa’s winters are mild and pleasant, with temperatures typically ranging from the mid-60s to 70s°F. This allows you to enjoy the cool season in comfort, without heavy coats or winter gear.
Outdoor Recreation
Another great advantage of living in Mesa is the abundance of outdoor recreational activities available year-round. Since Mesa is close to some of Arizona’s most beautiful landscapes, including the Superstition Mountains and the Tonto National Forest, you get access to countless trails for hiking and mountain biking. If you like water sports, you can go to Saguaro Lake, Canyon Lake, or Salt Rive to enjoy boating, kayaking, fishing, and paddleboarding.
Living in Mesa means you’re always surrounded by nature. Whether it’s a quick weekend camping trip to the nearby national forests or a sunset hike in the desert, outdoor activities are always within reach.
Growing Job Market
Mesa has seen steady economic growth over the years, providing a wide range of job opportunities across various industries. It has various companies from different sectors including healthcare, education, aerospace, technology, and manufacturing. With Arizona’s tech sector expanding, companies in fields like software development, IT services, and renewable energy are setting up operations here.
This diversity helps job seekers from different fields find opportunities, which makes it a great place for both skilled professionals and entry-level workers. Mesa also supports the small business community. It offers resources and programs to encourage entrepreneurship, which helps new startups and small businesses flourish.
Cons of Living in Mesa, AZ
Water Shortages
Salt River and groundwater from local aquifers are two major sources of water in Mesa. However, as the population continues to grow, the demand for water increases, which puts pressure on these limited resources. Along with this, Mesa has seen decreased rainfall and increased temperatures due to climate change, which is raising concerns about the long-term sustainability of water resources.
If you like to maintain gardens and green spaces, strict water usage restrictions may force you to change your gardening choices. This could lead to a decline in property values for homes with less attractive yards or gardens.
Extreme Summer Heat
One of the biggest challenges of living in Mesa, AZ, is the extreme summer heat. During the summer months, temperatures often exceed 100°F, with July and August being the hottest months, where the average highs can reach 105°F or more. So if you’ve always lived in a cool place, this kind of heat can be difficult to adjust to.
It can also limit outdoor activities during the day, as it becomes uncomfortable and even unsafe to be outside for long periods. You might have to restrict simple activities like walking your dog, going for a run, or enjoying time at the park to early morning or late evening hours when the temperatures are lower.
Heavy Reliance on Cars
Another downside of living in Mesa is the heavy reliance on cars for getting around. Since public transportation is limited, most residents need a personal vehicle to commute, run errands, or access amenities. You can use the light rail system connecting Mesa to nearby cities like Phoenix but it’s not as well-connected as you’d find in other metro cities. So if you prefer or need to use public transportation regularly, this lack of coverage can be inconvenient. Along with this, traffic congestion during peak hours can also increase your traveling time and fuel expenses.
Limited Nightlife
While Mesa offers a lot of family-friendly activities and outdoor recreation, it doesn’t have a huge nightlife scene compared to nearby cities like Phoenix or Scottsdale. If you like to go out to clubs, bars, and pubs, you may find Mesa’s options a bit limited. There are some spots like the Alchemy 48 to grab a drink or enjoy live entertainment but many restaurants and bars close earlier in the evening, which can be frustrating for those used to staying out late. So if you prefer a high-energy environment with a variety of evening entertainment options, you might find the slower pace less appealing.
Best Neighborhoods in Mesa, AZ
Eastmark
If you’re looking for a well-planned neighborhood that combines modern living with a strong sense of community, you should consider Eastmark. This neighborhood is known for its excellent schools, well-maintained parks, and community events, making it an ideal place for families and young professionals. Along with this, it hosts various community events throughout the year, including farmer’s markets, holiday celebrations, and outdoor concerts.
Eastmark is also close to the San Tan Village shopping center, which offers a range of dining options, retail stores, and entertainment. If you want other parks than Eastmark Great Park, you also have options like Desert Vista Park and Mesa Riverview Park.
Mountain Bridge
Mountain Bridge is an upscale, gated community that offers resort-style living amid stunning desert views. Known for its luxury homes and scenic beauty, it’s perfect for those who enjoy a high-quality lifestyle with various recreational opportunities. The community features a clubhouse, fitness center, tennis courts, and several pools, making it ideal for fitness enthusiasts.
The nearby Usery Mountain Regional Park provides additional opportunities for hiking and outdoor activities. If you want to enjoy a quality dining experience, you can go to the Gateway Pavilion as it has a variety of restaurants and retail options.
Red Mountain Ranch
Red Mountain Ranch is a beautiful golf course community well-known for its scenic views and active lifestyle. It features the Red Mountain Ranch Country Club, which offers golf, tennis, and social events. Along with the golf course, Red Mountain Ranch has several parks and trails, which makes it perfect for hiking, biking, and outdoor sports. The area is known for its great schools, so you can be sure that your kids will get good academic guidance.
Conclusion
Mesa offers a perfect mix of affordability, sunny weather, and access to both urban and outdoor amenities. It’s easy to see why this city catches the attention of so many people. However, the extreme summer heat and car-centric lifestyle may be drawbacks for some. That’s why it’s important to do your research before making any decision. If you are planning to move, you should consider taking moving services in Mesa as they can help you execute everything safely.