Determining what constitutes a comfortable salary in Mesa, Arizona can be a somewhat subjective and personal matter, as it can depend on factors such as individual lifestyle, expenses, and financial goals. However, there are some general guidelines and considerations that can be taken into account when discussing what salary range may be considered comfortable in Mesa.
Firstly, it is helpful to understand the cost of living in Mesa relative to other parts of the United States. According to data from Numbeo, a website that collects and analyzes cost of living information, Mesa has a cost of living index of 66.44, which is lower than the national average of 100. This means that, on average, the cost of living in Mesa is cheaper than in many other parts of the country. This can be seen in areas such as housing, where the median home price in Mesa is $303,000, compared to the national median home price of $347,500, according to Zillow.
Another important factor to consider when discussing a comfortable salary in Mesa is the median household income in the area. According to data from the U.S. Census Bureau, the median household income in Mesa is $63,623, as of 2019. This is slightly below the national median household income of $68,703, but still relatively high compared to many other parts of the country. This suggests that a salary that exceeds the median household income in Mesa could be considered comfortable for many individuals and families.
However, it is important to remember that individual circumstances can greatly impact what is considered a comfortable salary. For example, someone with high student loan debt or medical expenses may require a higher salary to cover their expenses than someone who does not have those financial obligations. Similarly, someone with expensive hobbies or tastes may require a higher salary to maintain their lifestyle than someone with more modest tastes.
In addition to cost of living and individual circumstances, it can also be helpful to consider salary data for specific occupations and industries in Mesa. According to data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for all occupations in the Phoenix-Mesa-Scottsdale metropolitan area, which includes Mesa, was $49,290 as of May 2020. However, this figure can vary greatly depending on the specific occupation and industry. For example, the median annual wage for healthcare practitioners and technical occupations in the area was $83,990, while the median annual wage for food preparation and serving related occupations was $23,020.
Ultimately, what constitutes a comfortable salary in Mesa will depend on a variety of factors, including individual circumstances, lifestyle, and expenses. However, considering the cost of living in Mesa, the median household income in the area, and salary data for specific occupations and industries can provide some guidance on what salary range may be considered comfortable for many individuals and families in the area.