Located in Arizona is the much-loved Valley of the Sun, a metro that is home to more than 4.7 million people. In fact, the Phoenix Metro is among the fastest growing metropolitans in the country. In all of these people rests the wonderful community of Mesa.
So, what sets Mesa apart in the Valley of the Sun? Let’s see together:
Mesa offers a better life
Believe it or not, Mesa offers a better life than Phoenix. According to a study by WalletHub, Mesa ranks No. 15 for the best large cities to live in in 2018, ranking high specifically in its affordability and safety rankings.
People living in Mesa make more
Another benefit of Mesa is its economy. Ranked 24th for health and economy in the previously mentioned report by WalletHub, the average income in Mesa was $64,000—significantly more than Phoenix’s $51,000. This may also be why Mesa ranked second for homeownership rates, only coming in second to Virginia Beach, VA.
Enjoy your bicycle in Mesa
In a place that’s annually warm and dry, who wouldn’t enjoy hitting the trails on your bicycle? Mesa offers more than 40 miles of bike lanes within the city proper and more to find through the desert and mountains, Mesa is a great place for bicycle enthusiasts or fun riders alike. Just be sure to pack extra water.
Speaking of wheels, you may want to consider having a car too. Next to Phoenix, Mesa is a commuter town.
Mesa has a Growing Permanent Sculpture Collection
No, it’s not the dessert heat, you really are seeing giant animals everywhere. Known as the Growing Permanent Sculpture Collection, Mesa offers 39 pieces, most of which are found downtown. All our welcome to a free self-guided tour any time day or night.
Mesa hosts ASU Polytechnic
Mesa is home to ASU’s Polytechnic campus, which serves as a nexu for studies in interdisciplinary sciences, engineering, management, technology and education. Arizona State University boasts a number of attributes, from being the top U.S. institute for innovation to being among the top schools for veterans and military students. Check out the full list of accolades here.
Enjoy Mexican Food in Mesa
While visiting the Valley of the Sun, how can you not enjoy some Mexican food? Locals love hot spots such as Pollos LaChuya, which offers a simple menu of high quality options—we offer the Plato Campechano so you can try both the beef and the chicken. Or you can check out Adrian’s and grab a breakfast burrito.
Mesa is home to the Cactus Leage
Spring training in Arizona is simply known as “The Cactus League,” but don’t get it confused—this isn’t the PeeWees. Baseball greats from Ty Cobb to Joe DiMaggio have come here over the years to train.
Watch out in the winter
Speaking of seasonal events, watch out for Winter Snowbirds. As with many warm, southern cities, winter can see an influx of senior citizens, so be prepared for a slight uptick in traffic here and there. Thankfully, most of these folks are pleasant and respectful of the city.
Truth be told, there are many others things to learn and enjoy about Mesa that make this wonderful city unique—and we encourage you to explore these things and see them in person! Thankfully, we can help. If you’re moving to Mesa, live there, or plan an extended visit, self storage can give you a place to keep your belongings. Click here to find the best Mesa storage facility for your needs.
