Are you considering Mesa, Arizona as your next home? Nestled in the East Valley of the Phoenix metro area, Mesa offers the perfect mix of suburban charm and urban convenience. With a population of over 515,000, Mesa stands as the largest suburb in the U.S. — but is it the right place for you? In this guide, we’ll explore the pros and cons of living in Mesa to help you decide if it’s a good fit for your lifestyle.
Cons of Living in Mesa, AZ
1. Lack of a Strong Downtown Core
While Mesa does have a small downtown area along Main Street, it doesn’t offer the bustling central hub that many suburbs have. The city is working on revitalizing this area, but for now, Mesa lacks the cohesive “town center” vibe that some people look for in a community.
2. Large Size with a Big City Feel
Mesa’s vast size can make it feel more like a continuation of Phoenix rather than a cozy suburb. This sprawl means that a tight-knit community vibe is harder to find. While there are smaller, close-knit communities throughout Mesa, the city’s overall size may make it feel overwhelming for those seeking a more intimate environment.
3. Higher Crime Rates in Some Areas
Crime is another factor to consider, as West Mesa has higher crime rates than other parts of the city. That said, East Mesa and other newer developments tend to be safer, making it crucial to research neighborhoods before settling down.
4. Limited Entertainment Options
While Mesa shines in outdoor activities (more on that later), it falls short when it comes to nightlife and entertainment. Residents often find themselves heading to nearby cities like Tempe or Phoenix for events and evening activities.
Pros of Living in Mesa, AZ
1. Affordable Housing Options
Mesa offers a wide variety of housing options, from budget-friendly homes to luxurious estates.
- Median home price: $475,000
- Entry-level homes: Around $250,000 for a two-bedroom, 1,000 sq. ft. home
- High-end properties: Some estates range up to $7.9 million, particularly in areas like Las Sendas, featuring mountain views and modern designs.
Mesa also boasts several 55+ age-restricted communities, where homes can start in the low $200,000s. This makes it an attractive option for retirees and snowbirds.
2. A Growing Job Market
Mesa is home to major employers like Boeing, Banner Health, and Arizona State University.
- Boeing operates a large facility at Falcon Field Airport, focused on attack helicopters and unmanned aerial systems.
- Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport is developing into a major employment hub, similar to the Scottsdale Airpark, offering new opportunities in the coming years.
3. Great Transportation and Connectivity
Despite its size, Mesa offers excellent transportation options:
- Loop 202 and US-60 Freeways make east-to-west travel convenient.
- Light rail service connects Mesa to Phoenix, Tempe, and downtown areas, providing a rare public transportation option in the Valley.
- Falcon Field Airport and Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport make travel easy, especially for private aviation enthusiasts and budget travelers via Allegiant Airlines.
4. Outdoor Activities and Natural Beauty
Mesa’s proximity to outdoor recreation is one of its biggest draws. The Tonto National Forest and the Salt River provide endless opportunities for hiking, fishing, tubing, and picnicking.
- Four Lakes Nearby: Canyon Lake, Roosevelt Lake, Saguaro Lake, and Apache Lake are all within easy reach for boating and fishing.
- Hiking Spots: Explore Lost Dutchman State Park, Usury Mountain Regional Park, and the trails of the Tonto National Forest.
- Spring Training Baseball: Mesa is home to both the Chicago Cubs and Oakland A’s spring training facilities, making it a hot spot for baseball fans during February and March.
5. Arts and Culture Scene
Mesa has a thriving arts scene, highlighted by the Mesa Arts Center, which hosts performances, exhibits, and community events throughout the year. If you’re an arts enthusiast, Mesa offers a surprising cultural escape from the desert landscape.
Is Mesa the Right Place for You?
Mesa, AZ offers a blend of affordability, employment opportunities, and outdoor activities that make it an appealing place to live. While it may lack a vibrant downtown and nightlife scene, its family-friendly neighborhoods, growing job market, and easy access to recreation make it a solid choice for those seeking a balance between urban and suburban life.
If you’re thinking about moving to Mesa, we’d love to help you find the perfect neighborhood and home. Contact us today at 480-660-5974 or schedule a call to explore your options.