Tempe, AZ vs Las Cruces, NM: 120 vs 68

$1,623/mo ↑ 72%

Median Rent

$946/mo ↓ 42%

$77,643/yr ↑ 41%

Median Income

$55,176/yr ↓ 29%

$421,900 ↑ 94%

Home Value

$217,400 ↓ 48%

$1,554/mo ↑ 60%

Owner Costs

$974/mo ↓ 37%

186,419

Population

112,612

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Tempe, AZ and Las Cruces, NM, the overall cost of living indices are 120 and 68 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $677/month cheaper in Las Cruces, saving renters about $8,124/year.

Median household income is $22,467/year higher in Tempe. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Tempe is $421,900 compared to $217,400 in Las Cruces.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Tempe vs Las Cruces — common questions

Is Tempe 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 120 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Tempe and Las Cruces?

Median rent in Tempe is $1,623/month and in Las Cruces it's $946/month — a difference of $677/month.

Which city has higher income, Tempe or Las Cruces?

Median household income is $77,643 in Tempe and $55,176 in Las Cruces. Median household income is $22,467/year higher in Tempe.

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 Tempe or Las Cruces?

It depends on your priorities. Tempe has a cost index of 120 with median rent of $1,623/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: Tempe, AZ vs Las Cruces, NM (2026)

Tempe

Las Cruces

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

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