Moving from Richmond to Mesa (2026)

Mesa has a COL index of 96 vs 98 for Richmond (100 = US average). You'd pay about 2% less for the same lifestyle.

Save ~$160/mo
on core expenses · $75K salary baseline

Key differences

COL index
9896
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$1,600$1,400
per month
State tax
5.8%2.5%
income tax
Take-home at $75K
$4,378$4,584
per month

Salary needed in Mesa to match your Richmond lifestyle

Based on the 2% cost of living decrease between the two cities.

Your salary in RichmondEquivalent in Mesa
$40K$39,184
$50K$48,980
$60K$58,776
$75K$73,469
$80K$78,367
$100K$97,959
$120K$117,551
$150K$146,939

Monthly budget at $75K — Richmond vs Mesa

ExpenseRichmondMesa
Monthly take-home$4,378$4,584
1BR rent$1,600$1,400
Groceries$369$369
Transport$70$55
Utilities$155$210
Internet$60$60
Left after essentials$2,124$2,490

Frequently asked questions

Is Mesa cheaper than Richmond?

Yes. Mesa has a cost of living index of 96 vs 98 for Richmond (100 = US average). That's about 2% cheaper.

How much will I save moving from Richmond to Mesa?

On a $75K salary, moving from Richmond to Mesa could save roughly $160/month on core expenses. That's ~$1,920/year.

What salary do I need in Mesa to match my Richmond lifestyle?

To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Richmond, you'd need roughly $73,469/year in Mesa. This is based on the overall COL index difference between the two cities.

Estimates based on Q1 2026 COL index and market data. Budget uses simplified federal/state tax rates at $75K. Zillow · BLS · Numbeo · For general guidance only