Factors that influence moving costs from Plano to Mesatoggle

The cost of Plano movers will depend on:

  • Move size: How much you're moving directly affects the cost. A one-bedroom move from Plano to Mesa might cost as little as $1,382, while a four-bedroom home could reach up to $8,129.
  • Time of year: Summer is considered peak moving season in Plano, which often leads to higher prices from moving companies.
  • DIY vs. full-service: Renting a truck or using a container can be more affordable, with truck rentals ranging from $841 to $2,118. Just keep in mind these options involve more hands-on work than hiring professionals.

What to know before moving from Plano to Mesa

Moving from Plano to Mesa means adjusting to a different pace of life โ€” and a different price tag. On average, it costs significantly more to live in Plano than in Mesa, making the move an opportunity for many to enjoy a lower cost of living.

Check out how Plano compares to Mesa so you know what to expect before you relocate:

Plano Mesa
Average rent cost $2,100 $1,786
Average home value $511,000 $432,892
Average income (per capita) $67,874 $64,524
Cost of living (single person) $2,506 $2,416
Cost of living (family of 4) $6,078 $5,566
Unemployment rate 5.5% 6.1%
Sales tax 8.25% 8.3%
State income tax 0.0% 2.5%
  • Rent prices in Mesa are 15% lower than in Plano, which means youโ€™ll have more money in your pocket each month.
  • In terms of homeownership, youโ€™ll be able to get more for your money in Mesa.
    Home prices in Mesa are 15.3% lower than in Plano.
  • Income in Mesa is 4.9% lower than in Plano, so you could earn less for doing the same job. The top employers in Mesa include Banner Health System, Mesa Public Schools, and The Boeing Company.
  • The cost of living for a single person in Mesa is 3.6% lower than in Plano. This includes routine expenses like utilities, groceries, clothing, and transportation.
  • The cost of living for a family in Mesa is 8.4% lower than in Plano.
  • The unemployment rate in Mesa is 10.91% higher than in Plano.
  • Sales taxes are the same in Mesa and Plano.
  • State income taxes in Mesa are 2.50% higher than in Plano.

To put this in perspective, you would need around $2,892.26 in Mesa to maintain the same standard of life that you can have with $3,000.00 in Plano.

How life is different in Plano vs. Mesa

Mesa Plano
Population 504,258 285,494
AllTransit Transportation Performance Score 4 2
Walkability score 38 41
Bike friendliness score 60 52
Crime Index 44.67 23.02
Safety Index 55.33 76.98
Air Quality Good Good
  • Mesa's population is about 77% greater than Plano.
  • Mesa's public transportation has a score of 4 out of 10 versus Plano's lower score of 2.
  • Mesa and Plano are similarily walkable.
  • With a score of 60 out of 100, Mesa is more bike-friendly than Plano, which has a score of 52 out of 100. The higher a city's score, the more suited they are to safely accommodating cyclists.
  • Mesa's crime rate is higher than Plano with a score of 44.67 compared to Plano's 23.02. This means that Mesa neighborhoods are safer than 44.67% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Plano neighborhoods are safer than 23.02%.
  • Mesa is considered to be less safe than Plano with a score of 55.33 vs Plano's 76.98.
  • Air quality in Mesa is good, and in Plano it's good.

Other things to consider for your Plano vs. Mesa move

  • Weather: Extreme heat may cause discomfort if you choose to move in the summer. Pay close attention to heat sensitive household items such as instruments, antique furniture, and electronics.
  • HOA rules: Itโ€™s a good idea to look into your HOA or community regulations before moving day arrives.
  • Elevator reservation: If your building has an elevator, itโ€™s a good idea to secure a reservation before your moving day.
  • Truck parking permits: To avoid fines or delays, check whether a parking permit is needed for your moving truck.
  • State licensing: Though Arizona is largely an โ€œunregulatedโ€ state, local moving companies are subject to some Arizona Department of Public Safety (AZDPS) and Department of Weights and Measures regulations intended to ensure that they operate safely and ethically. Before booking, ensure the moving company is officially licensed to handle your move.
  • State regulator: To confirm a moving companyโ€™s license in Arizona, visit the state's public utilities commission
  • Moving permits: While Arizona doesnโ€™t mandate moving permits, checking local parking guidelines before your move-in day is still a good idea.
  • Change of address: We recommend submitting your USPS change of address form at least one week before your move to ensure your mail gets forwarded to Mesa without delay. You can select your official move date when completing the form. Start the process here.
  • Moving company insurance: Every state sets its own rules for what insurance moving companies need to maintain. Choose Released Value Protection for its cost-effectivenessโ€”offered by movers at no extra charge, although it provides minimal coverage. With a liability limit of 60 cents per pound per article, consider this option carefully. For instance, if a 50-inch TV weighing 25 pounds is lost or damaged, your reimbursement would only be $15 (60 cents x 25 pounds). For comprehensive coverage of your items' full value, consult with your moving company for alternative options or consider third-party insurance providers.
  • Moving checklist: Our moving checklist gives you the peace of mind that comes with being fully prepared.

Where to live in Mesa

With your sights set on "", these are some of the most popular neighborhoods to consider in Mesa.

Best neighborhoods for singles

  • Central
  • Southwest
  • Northwest
  • Northeast
  • West Central

Best neighborhoods for families

  • Red Mountain Ranch
  • Superstition Springs
  • Eastmark
  • Dobson Ranch
  • Alta Mesa

Things to do in Mesa

Now that you've made the move to Arizona, itโ€™s the perfect time to explore Mesa. From local hotspots to hidden gems, thereโ€™s something to enjoy for every lifestyle:

  • Arts and culture: Youโ€™ll find museums and cultural hubs throughout Mesa, such as the Commemorative Air Force Museum, Arizona Museum of Natural History, Mesa Arts Center, i.d.e.a. Museum, and Mesa Historical Museum.
  • Outdoor recreation: The cityโ€™s Riparian Preserve at Water Ranch, Freestone Park, Riverview Park, and Pioneer Park โ€” along with other locations, ideal for trails, cycling, or enjoying the fresh air.
  • Sports: Experience the energy of a live game and back the home team at an game.

FAQ

When is the best time to move from Plano to Mesa?

Spring and fall are the ideal times to move from Plano to Mesa. Youโ€™ll benefit from more comfortable weather and avoid the higher prices that come with peak moving season in Plano.

When is the cheapest time to move from Plano to Mesa?

Since spring and fall are the most popular times to move from Plano to Mesa, moving in the winter could help you save money. Check out our guide on moving discounts for more tips.

How long does a move from Plano to Mesa take?

The 1,083-mile journey from Plano, TX to Mesa, AZ typically takes two to eight days. Some movers in Plano offer expedited services if you're on a tight schedule, and if you need extra time, be sure to ask about storage options in Mesa.

Helpful moving resources