Tucson, AZ vs Las Cruces, NM: 76 vs 68

$1,079/mo ↑ 14%

Median Rent

$946/mo ↓ 12%

$54,546/yr ↓ 1%

Median Income

$55,176/yr ↑ 1%

$242,200 ↑ 11%

Home Value

$217,400 ↓ 10%

$1,076/mo ↑ 10%

Owner Costs

$974/mo ↓ 9%

543,348

Population

112,612

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Tucson, AZ and Las Cruces, NM, the overall cost of living indices are 76 and 68 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $133/month cheaper in Las Cruces, saving renters about $1,596/year.

Median household income is $630/year higher in Las Cruces. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Tucson is $242,200 compared to $217,400 in Las Cruces.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Tucson vs Las Cruces — common questions

Is Tucson 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 76 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Tucson and Las Cruces?

Median rent in Tucson is $1,079/month and in Las Cruces it's $946/month — a difference of $133/month.

Which city has higher income, Tucson or Las Cruces?

Median household income is $54,546 in Tucson and $55,176 in Las Cruces. Median household income is $630/year higher in Las Cruces.

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 Tucson or Las Cruces?

It depends on your priorities. Tucson has a cost index of 76 with median rent of $1,079/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: Tucson, AZ vs Las Cruces, NM (2026)

Tucson

Las Cruces

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

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