Mesa, Mesa AZ — neighborhood review

Mesa, AZ

Mesa · Maricopa County · AZ 85201

Updated August 3, 2026 · Would You Live There?

Think twice

Verdict

$329K

Median Price

63/100

Walk Score

9/10

Schools

24 min

to Downtown Phoenix

Score Breakdown

CAffordability
63/100
D+Safety
55/100
ASchools
90/100
D+Quietness
50/100
B+Commute
85/100
CWalkability
63/100
WYLT Score68/100

Our Take

Mesa 85201 offers affordable housing and a short commute to downtown Phoenix, but its lack of walkability, limited transit, and moderate crime rates make it less ideal for people who value convenience or safety. It can work for budget‑conscious families who don’t mind a car, but those looking for a lively, pedestrian‑friendly neighborhood should consider other areas.

B.

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Map

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The Good

  • Affordable home and rental prices relative to Phoenix
  • 24‑minute drive to downtown Phoenix
  • Low flood risk (Zone X)
  • Good mix of public schools including several highly rated options

Real Talk

  • !Walk score of 0 means you’ll need a car for almost everything
  • !Crime is moderate; property theft and violent incidents are reported more often than in many nearby suburbs
  • !The area is hot year‑round and air quality can be poor, especially in summer
  • !Dining, nightlife, and entertainment options are limited compared to larger cities
  • $Higher utility bills for air conditioning
  • $Higher insurance costs due to property crime
  • $Potential HOA fees in certain neighborhoods

Best For

Budget‑conscious first‑time homebuyersFamilies needing a longer commuteRemote workers who don’t rely on city amenitiesPeople who plan to live in a car‑centric suburb

Risk Snapshot

Flood riskLow
Violent crimeModerate
Property crimeModerate
Air qualityGood
Price volatilityModerate

Crime & Safety

Mesa, AZ

D+

Safety grade

Safety score55 / 100
High riskVery safe
⚠️Violent Crime
Moderate
3.9incidents / 1,000 residents / yr
0Natl avg (3.7)11+

5% higher than the national average

🔒Property Crime
Moderate
19.8incidents / 1,000 residents / yr
0Natl avg (19.5)59+

2% higher than the national average

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From Residents

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