Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
22% cheaper
Grand Rapids is 22% more affordable than Santa Fe. A $75,000 salary in Santa Fe is equivalent to $58,333 in Grand Rapids.
Index values shown. National average = 100. Lower is cheaper.
To maintain the same standard of living:
See exact take-home pay: Michigan salaries · New Mexico salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Grand Rapids has a housing index of 78 while Santa Fe sits at 153 (national average = 100). The median home in Grand Rapids costs $240,000 compared to $480,000 in Santa Fe, a difference of $240,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $1,200 in Grand Rapids versus $1,600 in Santa Fe.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a notable difference: Grand Rapids scores 96 while Santa Fe scores 103. Both cities are close to the national average for grocery costs.
Healthcare costs in Grand Rapids (98) are higher than Santa Fe (95). Both are close to the national average.
Median household income in Grand Rapids is $49,982 compared to $61,982 in Santa Fe. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Grand Rapids.
Amazon affiliate links