Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
17% cheaper
New Orleans is 17% more affordable than Santa Fe. A $75,000 salary in Santa Fe is equivalent to $62,179 in New Orleans.
Index values shown. National average = 100. Lower is cheaper.
To maintain the same standard of living:
See exact take-home pay: Louisiana salaries · New Mexico salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. New Orleans has a housing index of 95 while Santa Fe sits at 153 (national average = 100). The median home in New Orleans costs $245,000 compared to $480,000 in Santa Fe, a difference of $235,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $1,200 in New Orleans versus $1,600 in Santa Fe.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a narrower gap: New Orleans scores 99 while Santa Fe scores 103. Both cities are close to the national average for grocery costs.
Healthcare costs in New Orleans (94) are lower than Santa Fe (95). Both are close to the national average.
Median household income in New Orleans is $43,258 compared to $61,982 in Santa Fe. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in New Orleans.
Amazon affiliate links