Cost of Living: Las Cruces, NM vs Downey, CA 2026

$946/mo ↓ 50%

Median Rent

$1,892/mo ↑ 100%

$55,176/yr ↓ 37%

Median Income

$87,400/yr ↑ 58%

$217,400 ↓ 70%

Home Value

$728,500 ↑ 235%

$974/mo ↓ 51%

Owner Costs

$1,997/mo ↑ 105%

112,612

Population

111,793

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Las Cruces, NM and Downey, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 68 and 169 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $946/month cheaper in Las Cruces, saving renters about $11,352/year.

Median household income is $32,224/year higher in Downey. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Las Cruces is $217,400 compared to $728,500 in Downey.

New Mexico has a lower income tax rate, making Las Cruces slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Las Cruces vs Downey — common questions

Is Las Cruces or Downey cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Las Cruces is cheaper to live in with an index of 68 compared to 169 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Las Cruces and Downey?

Median rent in Las Cruces is $946/month and in Downey it's $1,892/month — a difference of $946/month.

Which city has higher income, Las Cruces or Downey?

Median household income is $55,176 in Las Cruces and $87,400 in Downey. Median household income is $32,224/year higher in Downey.

How do taxes compare between New Mexico and California?

New Mexico has 5.9% income tax, 5.0% sales tax, and 0.67% property tax. California has 13.3% income tax, 7.25% sales tax, and 0.71% property tax.

Should I move to Las Cruces or Downey?

It depends on your priorities. Las Cruces has a cost index of 68 with median rent of $946/mo, while Downey has a cost index of 169 with rent of $1,892/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Las Cruces, NM vs Downey, CA (2026)

Las Cruces

Downey

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions