Phoenix, AZ vs Las Cruces, NM: 109 vs 68

$1,458/mo ↑ 54%

Median Rent

$946/mo ↓ 35%

$77,041/yr ↑ 40%

Median Income

$55,176/yr ↓ 28%

$381,900 ↑ 76%

Home Value

$217,400 ↓ 43%

$1,430/mo ↑ 47%

Owner Costs

$974/mo ↓ 32%

1,624,832

Population

112,612

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Phoenix, AZ and Las Cruces, NM, the overall cost of living indices are 109 and 68 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $512/month cheaper in Las Cruces, saving renters about $6,144/year.

Median household income is $21,865/year higher in Phoenix. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Phoenix is $381,900 compared to $217,400 in Las Cruces.

Arizona has a lower income tax rate, making Phoenix slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Phoenix vs Las Cruces — common questions

Is Phoenix 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 109 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Phoenix and Las Cruces?

Median rent in Phoenix is $1,458/month and in Las Cruces it's $946/month — a difference of $512/month.

Which city has higher income, Phoenix or Las Cruces?

Median household income is $77,041 in Phoenix and $55,176 in Las Cruces. Median household income is $21,865/year higher in Phoenix.

How do taxes compare between Arizona and New Mexico?

Arizona has 2.5% income tax, 5.6% sales tax, and 0.62% property tax. New Mexico has 5.9% income tax, 5.0% sales tax, and 0.67% property tax.

Should I move to Phoenix or Las Cruces?

It depends on your priorities. Phoenix has a cost index of 109 with median rent of $1,458/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: Phoenix, AZ vs Las Cruces, NM (2026)

Phoenix

Las Cruces

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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