Series Part 3 – Mesa, Arizona – You’re Not Buying A Home, You’re Buying A Neighborhood

 

In this third series of You’re Not Buying A Home, You’re Buying A Neighborhood, we’re taking you to Mesa, Arizona.  Mesa is a vibrant community just northwest of Gilbert, Arizona neighborhoods, and north of Chandler. Sitting just east of Tempe, Arizona, Mesa is very centrally located within the Phoenix metropolitan area, and has just about a 30-40 minute drive time to almost all of the main cities and towns located in the Phoenix area. Mesa is a very family oriented area, and a place that many go to to relax and retire.  There are a number of very good school systems, and Mesa has a very palatable median home value. Let’s explore the Mesa, Arizona area and learn about the cities main talking points.

 

 

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Buying the Mesa, Arizona Neighborhood

 

 

MESA, ARIZONA ECONOMICS

The popularity of living in the Mesa suburb predated Arizona resident’s migration towards the other suburbs. This is because Mesa is a little closer to the central Phoenix area, and is, therefore, more populated than Gilbert or Chandler. The population in Mesa is 499,720 people, so there is definitely a denser suburban feel to this area as compared to the other two. However, like the other cities, Mesa is mostly populated by families and younger business professionals. People that are residents of Mesa are also majority homeowners. With 61% of its residents owning their homes, and 39% being renters. The median household income in Mesa is $58,181. The average home value in this city is quite a bit cheaper than in the other two, coming in at $432,500. The median rental price for Mesa is also significantly lower at $1,344 for average monthly rent.

Mesa has quite a few notable rankings not only just within the state of Arizona, but also when compared to the rest of America. For instance, Mesa is ranked #19 for Best Cities to Retire in America out of 228 cities. In fact, 16% of Mesa residents are 65 years or older. Mesa is also ranked #51 out of 228 cities for the Best Cities to Buy a House in America. This is no surprise when you take a look at the affordable home value average that’s mentioned above. Not to mention that Mesa also claims the #56 spot for Cities with the Best Public Schools in America out of 228 cities. So, it won’t be difficult to place your child in a great school when living here.

 

 

MESA, ARIZONA CRIME AND SAFETY

The crime rates in Mesa are going to be slightly higher than in the other two cities. However, this is to be expected given that the population is much denser in this location. But regardless of that, the crime rates in Mesa are still well below national averages. The crime rate for robbery in Mesa is 75.3 (calculated annually per 100,000 residents), while the national average lies at 135.5. Motor vehicle theft is also slightly higher than the other cities coming in at 161.9 for the city of Mesa, and the national average is 284. Residents of this city still report feeling safe and loving their area though. With 30% of Mesa residents saying they feel very safe (seeing practically no crime), and 59% of residents feeling pretty safe (there is some crime but they are not impacted by it). Just like the homes in Gilbert, Arizona, Mesa is a great choice for overall safety and lower crime.  Please keep in mind that any city will have some crime, its just part of life. Always being aware and practicing general safety mentality is a good practice no matter where you end up moving.

 

MESA, ARIZONA SCHOOLS

As mentioned earlier, Mesa has quite the roster of A+ public schools to brag about. Some of the best schools in the area are the Gilbert Classical Academy High School and the Self Development Academy. Both of these schools offer a 20 to 1 student to teacher ratio so the class sizes are not too large, and students still get enough personal direction from the teacher. If your kid is interested in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Math) programs look no further than ASU Preparatory Academy – Poly STEM Academy. Which will get your child ready to start a career in science and math based fields while still in middle school or high school. If you’re interested in private schools, Mesa still has some viable options but they just don’t carry as much rapport as some of the public schools in the area. Nonetheless, check out Faith Christian School and Redeemer Christian School for some great private school options.

 

 

MESA, ARIZONA ENTERTAINMENT

Mesa is Arizona’s third largest city, and for that reason, there are a variety of museums and other activities to enjoy in this city. Stop by Golfland any time of year for some mini golf, go-carting, arcade games, or play on the bumper boats. In the summer months check out Sunsplash and take advantage of their water park. This park has 29 different water theme rides and a fun selection of other swimming pools and wave pools. If you’d like to see some of the history of Mesa stop by the Mesa Historical Museum, or for an artistic experience go to the Mesa Arts Center. Mesa is close by several other suburbs and is, therefore, the perfect spot to live in order to take advantage of all the things other cities close by have to offer. Just a quick drive on the freeway can land you in Scottsdale, Downtown Chandler, or Downtown Gilbert in under 20 minutes.

 

 

 

Summary of Gilbert, Chandler, And Mesa.  

In summary, the suburbs of Gilbert, Chandler, and Mesa are all promising neighborhoods for your new home. The residents of these cities are going to be mostly younger people such as new families. This is why there is plenty of things to do in this part of the valley. From first-class dining experiences to festivals and events, and amazing nightlife. You’ll never be bored living in these suburban areas. Not to mention, the grade A schools that Gilbert, Chandler, and Mesa are all known for. Making these three suburbs perfect starting points for young families and young business professionals alike.