Columbia, MO vs Las Cruces, NM: 80 vs 68

$1,067/mo ↑ 13%

Median Rent

$946/mo ↓ 11%

$64,488/yr ↑ 17%

Median Income

$55,176/yr ↓ 14%

$268,300 ↑ 23%

Home Value

$217,400 ↓ 19%

$1,114/mo ↑ 14%

Owner Costs

$974/mo ↓ 13%

127,200

Population

112,612

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Columbia, MO and Las Cruces, NM, the overall cost of living indices are 80 and 68 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $121/month cheaper in Las Cruces, saving renters about $1,452/year.

Median household income is $9,312/year higher in Columbia. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Columbia is $268,300 compared to $217,400 in Las Cruces.

Missouri has a lower income tax rate, making Columbia slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Columbia vs Las Cruces — common questions

Is Columbia 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 80 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Columbia and Las Cruces?

Median rent in Columbia is $1,067/month and in Las Cruces it's $946/month — a difference of $121/month.

Which city has higher income, Columbia or Las Cruces?

Median household income is $64,488 in Columbia and $55,176 in Las Cruces. Median household income is $9,312/year higher in Columbia.

How do taxes compare between Missouri and New Mexico?

Missouri has 4.95% income tax, 4.225% sales tax, and 0.93% property tax. New Mexico has 5.9% income tax, 5.0% sales tax, and 0.67% property tax.

Should I move to Columbia or Las Cruces?

It depends on your priorities. Columbia has a cost index of 80 with median rent of $1,067/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: Columbia, MO vs Las Cruces, NM (2026)

Columbia

Las Cruces

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

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