Chicago, IL vs Las Cruces, NM: 100 vs 68

$1,380/mo ↑ 46%

Median Rent

$946/mo ↓ 31%

$75,134/yr ↑ 36%

Median Income

$55,176/yr ↓ 27%

$315,200 ↑ 45%

Home Value

$217,400 ↓ 31%

$1,502/mo ↑ 54%

Owner Costs

$974/mo ↓ 35%

2,707,648

Population

112,612

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Chicago, IL and Las Cruces, NM, the overall cost of living indices are 100 and 68 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $434/month cheaper in Las Cruces, saving renters about $5,208/year.

Median household income is $19,958/year higher in Chicago. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Chicago is $315,200 compared to $217,400 in Las Cruces.

Illinois has a lower income tax rate, making Chicago slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Chicago vs Las Cruces — common questions

Is Chicago or Las Cruces cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Las Cruces is cheaper to live in with an index of 68 compared to 100 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Chicago and Las Cruces?

Median rent in Chicago is $1,380/month and in Las Cruces it's $946/month — a difference of $434/month.

Which city has higher income, Chicago or Las Cruces?

Median household income is $75,134 in Chicago and $55,176 in Las Cruces. Median household income is $19,958/year higher in Chicago.

How do taxes compare between Illinois and New Mexico?

Illinois has 4.95% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 2.07% property tax. New Mexico has 5.9% income tax, 5.0% sales tax, and 0.67% property tax.

Should I move to Chicago or Las Cruces?

It depends on your priorities. Chicago has a cost index of 100 with median rent of $1,380/mo, while Las Cruces has a cost index of 68 with rent of $946/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Chicago, IL vs Las Cruces, NM (2026)

Chicago

Las Cruces

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

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