Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
26% cheaper
Birmingham is 26% more affordable than Santa Fe. A $75,000 salary in Santa Fe is equivalent to $55,769 in Birmingham.
Index values shown. National average = 100. Lower is cheaper.
To maintain the same standard of living:
See exact take-home pay: Alabama salaries · New Mexico salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Birmingham has a housing index of 67 while Santa Fe sits at 153 (national average = 100). The median home in Birmingham costs $165,000 compared to $480,000 in Santa Fe, a difference of $315,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $1,000 in Birmingham versus $1,600 in Santa Fe.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a notable difference: Birmingham scores 96 while Santa Fe scores 103. Both cities are close to the national average for grocery costs.
Healthcare costs in Birmingham (91) are lower than Santa Fe (95).
Median household income in Birmingham is $38,178 compared to $61,982 in Santa Fe. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Birmingham.
Amazon affiliate links