Is $50K a Good Salary in Mesa, AZ?
Full budget breakdown for Mesa on $50K/year — take-home after taxes, rent burden, what you can afford, and how it compares to the city median.
Monthly budget in Mesa on $50K
US average equivalent
$52,000
Your $50K in Mesa (COL: 96) buys the same as $52,000/yr in a city with average US cost of living.
vs Mesa median
-22%
The median household income in Mesa is $64,000/yr. You're earning 22% below that.
Cities where $50K goes further
These cities have a lower rent burden at $50K than Mesa.
Other salary levels in Mesa
Frequently asked questions
Is $50K a good salary in Mesa?
$50K/year in Mesa gives you approximately $3,056/month in take-home pay after federal and state taxes. With a median 1BR rent of $1,400/month, your rent burden is 46% of take-home — which is considered difficult. Mesa ranks #92 out of 179 cities for this salary level.
How much is $50K after taxes in Mesa?
On $50K/year in Mesa (AZ), you take home approximately $3,056/month after federal income tax, 2.5% AZ state income tax, and FICA. That is roughly $36,672/year net.
What is the cost of living in Mesa on $50K?
Monthly estimated costs in Mesa: rent $1,400, groceries ~$369, transportation ~$55, utilities ~$210, internet ~$60. Total estimated expenses: ~$2,094/month, leaving ~$962/month after essentials on a $50K salary.
Tax estimates use 2026 brackets · Rent data: Zillow Observed Rent Index · Budget figures are estimates for general guidance only