Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
14% cheaper
Durham is 14% more affordable than Santa Fe. A $75,000 salary in Santa Fe is equivalent to $64,744 in Durham.
Index values shown. National average = 100. Lower is cheaper.
To maintain the same standard of living:
See exact take-home pay: North Carolina salaries · New Mexico salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Durham has a housing index of 104 while Santa Fe sits at 153 (national average = 100). The median home in Durham costs $340,000 compared to $480,000 in Santa Fe, a difference of $140,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $1,400 in Durham versus $1,600 in Santa Fe.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a narrower gap: Durham scores 100 while Santa Fe scores 103. Both cities are close to the national average for grocery costs.
Healthcare costs in Durham (108) are higher than Santa Fe (95).
Median household income in Durham is $57,738 compared to $61,982 in Santa Fe. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Durham.
Amazon affiliate links