Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
21% cheaper
Lexington is 21% more affordable than Santa Fe. A $75,000 salary in Santa Fe is equivalent to $59,615 in Lexington.
Index values shown. National average = 100. Lower is cheaper.
To maintain the same standard of living:
See exact take-home pay: Kentucky salaries · New Mexico salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Lexington has a housing index of 82 while Santa Fe sits at 153 (national average = 100). The median home in Lexington costs $245,000 compared to $480,000 in Santa Fe, a difference of $235,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $1,200 in Lexington versus $1,600 in Santa Fe.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a notable difference: Lexington scores 96 while Santa Fe scores 103. Both cities are close to the national average for grocery costs.
Healthcare costs in Lexington (94) are lower than Santa Fe (95). Both are close to the national average.
Median household income in Lexington is $55,648 compared to $61,982 in Santa Fe. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Lexington.
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