Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
37% cheaper
Santa Fe is 37% more affordable than New York City. A $75,000 salary in New York City is equivalent to $46,925 in Santa Fe.
Index values shown. National average = 100. Lower is cheaper.
To maintain the same standard of living:
See exact take-home pay: New York salaries · New Mexico salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. New York City has a housing index of 302 while Santa Fe sits at 153 (national average = 100). The median home in New York City costs $680,000 compared to $480,000 in Santa Fe, a difference of $200,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $3,200 in New York City versus $1,600 in Santa Fe.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a notable difference: New York City scores 109 while Santa Fe scores 103.
Healthcare costs in New York City (108) are higher than Santa Fe (95).
Median household income in New York City is $67,046 compared to $61,982 in Santa Fe. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Santa Fe.
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