2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Jefferson, IA vs Mesa, AZ

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Highlights
Are people in Mesa older or younger than people in Jefferson?
- The Median Age in Mesa is 11.1 years younger than in Jefferson.

Are housing costs cheaper in Mesa or Jefferson?
- Mesa housing costs are 205.5% more expensive than Jefferson housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Mesa or Jefferson?
- The average commute for residents of Mesa is 7.9 minutes longer than it is for residents of Jefferson.

Things to do in Jefferson?
Living in Jefferson, IA is a truly unique experience. Located just west of Des Moines, this small town of about 4,500 has a lot to offer its residents. The downtown area offers quaint shops and restaurants that give the area its classic small-town feel. The locals are friendly and welcoming, often coming together for seasonal events such as outdoor concerts or local farmers markets. There is an abundance of outdoor activities around the town including fishing at nearby rivers, biking along the trails and hiking through the wooded areas. With low crime rates and a great school system, Jefferson is a safe and desirable place to live.

Things to do in Mesa?
Mesa, Arizona is a vibrant city filled with activities and attractions for all ages. Visit the Arizona Museum of Natural History or take in a show at the Hohokam Stadium. Head out to Usery Mountain Regional Park and explore some of the most stunning views in Arizona, or stay downtown and experience Mesa's culture and nightlife. Whether you're looking for outdoor recreation, history, culture, or just a relaxing retreat from city life, Mesa is sure to provide it all!

 Jefferson, IAMesa, AZUnited States
 Population  Unlock497,752329,725,481
 Median Income$45,230  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock36.638.4
 Avg. Home Price$139,400  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock6.1%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time16.98  Unlock26.38
Reviews for Jefferson    2 Reviews

Over 7 years ago

We moved to Jefferson from another state and love it here. We've been made to feel welcome by so many folks. People are kind here and there's a focus on the community.  More

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Over 11 years ago

Life is good in Jefferson. Low crime, low cost of living, small town friendliness, good access to health care, close enough to larger metropolitan amenities. Good  More

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Reviews for Mesa    61 Reviews

Mesa is a really good city despite some trouble with Superstition Springs and the failure that is Fiesta Mall, there is nice areas throughout and some areas that need to  More

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Over 2 years ago

As someone who was born in Mesa and has lived here in the 85210 in Dobson Ranch for the last 13 years after moving out from Chandler. I can tell you that most of the  More

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I’m a native to Arizona and growing up here has taught me that people just don’t care, and the Mormon community is huge! It’s normal in the state of AZ for kids to start  More

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