Arizona vs New Mexico: Which Is Better to Live In?
Arizona ranks #38 of 50 overall and New Mexico #49 as of the latest release. New Mexico is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 92.2 vs 100.7), carries a 1.4-point higher tax burden, and has a 39% higher violent crime rate. Arizona scores higher overall, leading 6 of 11 categories to 3.
- Violent crime rate is 39% lower in Arizona (378 vs. 622 in New Mexico).
- Property crime rate is 32% lower in Arizona (1,514 vs. 2,240 in New Mexico).
- Typical home value is 24% lower in New Mexico ($318,241 vs. $417,990 in Arizona).
| Measure | ArizonaAZ | New MexicoNM | GapAZ−NM | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall scorecomposite of 100, rank of 50Gap +17.2 pts | 47.8#38 of 50 · C | 30.6#49 of 50 · F | +17.2 pts | — | AZ |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +8.5 pts (+9%) · US 100 | 100.7#35 of 50 | 92.2#15 of 50 | +8.5 pts+9% | 100 | NM |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$15,113 · US -$11,758 | -$19,573#29 of 50 | -$4,460#16 of 50 | -$15,113 | -$11,758 | NM |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$99,749 (+31%) · US $368,697 | $417,990#34 of 50 | $318,241#20 of 50 | +$99,749+31% | $368,697 | NM |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -1.4 pts · US 8.74% | 8.22%#17 of 50 | 9.62%#39 of 50 | -1.4 pts | 8.74% | AZ |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -244 (-39%) · US 328 | 378#36 of 50 | 622#49 of 50 | -244-39% | 328 | AZ |
| Median household incomeGap +$13,670 (+20%) · US $80,903 | $81,486#20 of 50 | $67,816#43 of 50 | +$13,670+20% | $80,903 | AZ |
| High school graduation rateGap +0.7 pts · US 85.62% | 77.3%#49 of 50 | 76.6%#50 of 50 | +0.7 pts | 85.62% | AZ |
| Life expectancyGap +2.2 yrs · US 76.9 | 76.7#30 of 50 | 74.5#42 of 50 | +2.2 yrs | 76.9 | AZ |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +17,529 · US -33 | +17,316#6 of 50 | -213#30 of 50 | +17,529 | -33 | AZ |
Cost of living index from the Bureau of Economic Analysis (US = 100). Left after costs from the America's Dashboard affordability engine for a family of four earning $75,000. Typical home value from Zillow Research. Tax burden from WalletHub. Violent crime from the FBI, per 100,000 residents. Income and graduation from the Census Bureau and NCES. Life expectancy from the CDC. Net households from IRS Statistics of Income. US column is the 50-state average or median.
Is Arizona or New Mexico better to live in?
Arizona scores higher overall: 47.8 to 30.6 out of 100, #38 of 50 against #49. Arizona leads 6 of 11 categories, New Mexico leads 3, and 2 are within 3 points.
| Category | Weight | ArizonaAZ | New MexicoNM | Gap | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy15% of scoregap +10.4 | 15% | 42.6#31 · C+ | 32.2#41 · C | +10.4 pts | AZ |
| Safety12% of scoregap +30.3 | 12% | 63.2#32 · C+ | 32.9#49 · F | +30.3 pts | AZ |
| Health12% of scoregap +13.5 | 12% | 49.7#31 · C+ | 36.2#42 · C | +13.5 pts | AZ |
| Education12% of scoregap +26 | 12% | 32.6#47 · D | 6.6#50 · F | +26 pts | AZ |
| Affordability10% of scoregap -20.7 | 10% | 60.3#35 · C | 81.0#13 · B+ | -20.7 pts | NM |
| Fiscal Health8% of scoregap -2.6 | 8% | 59.4#25 · B | 62.0#21 · B | -2.6 pts | Even |
| Growth7% of scoregap +25.1 | 7% | 48.3#16 · B+ | 23.2#43 · D | +25.1 pts | AZ |
| Transportation7% of scoregap +10.5 | 7% | 53.4#18 · B+ | 42.9#42 · C | +10.5 pts | AZ |
| Livability7% of scoregap +1.4 | 7% | 24.3#42 · C | 22.9#44 · D | +1.4 pts | Even |
| Outdoor Access6% of scoregap -6.6 | 6% | 37.7#16 · B+ | 44.3#10 · A | -6.6 pts | NM |
| Environment4% of scoregap -24.9 | 4% | 25.9#44 · D | 50.8#13 · B+ | -24.9 pts | NM |
Scores run 0 to 100 within each category; weight is the category's share of the composite. Grades follow rank (1–5 A+, 6–10 A, 11–18 B+, 19–26 B, 27–34 C+, 35–42 C, 43–48 D, 49–50 F). Methodology →
Is Arizona cheaper than New Mexico?
New Mexico is cheaper: cost of living index 92.2 vs 100.7 in Arizona (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 keeps $15,113 more a year in New Mexico after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes.
| Measure | ArizonaAZ | New MexicoNM | GapAZ−NM | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +8.5 pts (+9%) · US 100 | 100.7#35 of 50 | 92.2#15 of 50 | +8.5 pts+9% | 100 | NM |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap -0.7 pts (-1%) · US 100 | 95.4#10 of 50 | 96.1#17 of 50 | -0.7 pts-1% | 100 | Even |
| Residential electricity priceGap +0.24¢ (+2%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 15.32¢/kWh#25 of 50 | 15.08¢/kWh#22 of 50 | +0.24¢+2% | 17.84¢/kWh | Even |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$8.75 (+89%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $18.58/Mcf#40 of 50 | $9.83/Mcf#4 of 50 | +$8.75+89% | $15.83/Mcf | NM |
| Gasoline priceGap +$0.78 (+26%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.80/gal#44 of 50 | $3.02/gal#8 of 50 | +$0.78+26% | $3.32/gal | NM |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap — · US $15,633 | $16,384#30 of 50 | — | — | $15,633 | Even |
Cost of living index and the price level for goods from the Bureau of Economic Analysis regional price parities (US = 100). Electricity, natural gas and gasoline prices from the EIA; center-based infant care from Child Care Aware of America. Lower is ahead.
| Measure | ArizonaAZ | New MexicoNM | GapAZ−NM | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Adultearning $75,000Gap -$4,235 | +$29,757costs $45,244 | +$33,992costs $41,009 | -$4,235 | NM |
| Couple, No Kidsearning $75,000Gap -$6,805 | +$19,775costs $55,225 | +$26,580costs $48,421 | -$6,805 | NM |
| Family of 4earning $75,000Gap -$15,113 | -$19,573costs $94,573 | -$4,460costs $79,461 | -$15,113 | NM |
| Retiree Coupleearning $75,000Gap -$5,605 | +$33,427costs $41,573 | +$39,032costs $35,968 | -$5,605 | NM |
Income left after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and state and local taxes for four household types earning $75,000, from the affordability engine. Negative means typical costs exceed take-home pay.
| Measure | ArizonaAZ | New MexicoNM | GapAZ−NM | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HousingGap +$6,039 | $27,704 | $21,665 | +$6,039 | NM |
| ChildcareGap +$6,400 | $32,768 | $26,368 | +$6,400 | NM |
| UtilitiesGap +$408 | $4,834 | $4,426 | +$408 | Even |
| GroceriesGap -$79 | $10,745 | $10,824 | -$79 | Even |
| TransportationGap +$2,452 | $11,943 | $9,491 | +$2,452 | NM |
| State and local taxesGap -$108 | $6,579 | $6,687 | -$108 | Even |
Annual cost lines for a family of four (two adults, two children). Lower is ahead.
Which has lower taxes, Arizona or New Mexico?
Arizona collects a smaller share of income in state and local taxes: 8.22% vs 9.62%. Arizona has low income tax, low property tax, high sales tax; New Mexico has middle of the pack on income, property and sales taxes.
| Measure | ArizonaAZ | New MexicoNM | GapAZ−NM | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -1.4 pts · US 8.74% | 8.22%#17 of 50 | 9.62%#39 of 50 | -1.4 pts | 8.74% | AZ |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap -3.4 pts · US 5.46% | 2.5%#11 of 50 | 5.9%#31 of 50 | -3.4 pts | 5.46% | AZ |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap -0.18 pts · US 1.02% | 0.56%#11 of 50 | 0.74%#17 of 50 | -0.18 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +0.85 pts · US 6.66% | 8.52%#40 of 50 | 7.67%#34 of 50 | +0.85 pts | 6.66% | NM |
Total tax burden (state and local taxes as a share of personal income) from WalletHub; top marginal income tax rate, effective property tax rate and combined state and local sales tax from the Tax Foundation. Lower is ahead.
Are homes more expensive in Arizona or New Mexico?
Homes cost 31% more in Arizona: a typical home value of $417,990 in Arizona vs $318,241 in New Mexico. Buying the typical home takes about $104,042 of income in Arizona and $83,498 in New Mexico; the median household earns $81,486 and $67,816.
| Measure | ArizonaAZ | New MexicoNM | GapAZ−NM | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$99,749 (+31%) · US $368,697 | $417,990#34 of 50 | $318,241#20 of 50 | +$99,749+31% | $368,697 | NM |
| Home value change, one yearGap -2.8 pts · US +1.2% | -1.1%#46 of 50 | +1.7%#30 of 50 | -2.8 pts | +1.2% | NM |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$223 (+15%) · US $1,948 | $1,722#25 of 50 | $1,499#13 of 50 | +$223+15% | $1,948 | NM |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$20,544 (+25%) · US $100,006 | $104,042#30 of 50 | $83,498#18 of 50 | +$20,544+25% | $100,006 | NM |
| Home value to income ratioGap +0.4x (+9%) · US 4.6x | 5.1x#35 of 50 | 4.7x#31 of 50 | +0.4x+9% | 4.6x | NM |
Typical home value, one-year change, largest-metro rent and income needed to buy from Zillow Research (a modeled estimate, not a median). Price-to-income ratio divides that typical home value by ACS median household income. Lower is ahead.
| AZ | NM | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly payment, 20% down | $2,151 | $1,637 |
| Income needed vs. median | +28% | +23% |
| Five-year change | +9.1% | +25.9% |
| Market temperature | Cold | Cool |
| Largest metro | Phoenix | Albuquerque |
Income needed vs. median: how far the income required to buy the typical home sits above (+) or below (−) the state's median household income. Temperature blends price cuts, days to pending and inventory against the national market (Zillow).
Do people earn more in Arizona or New Mexico?
Arizona pays more: median household income $81,486 vs $67,816, with unemployment at 4.3% in Arizona and 4.2% in New Mexico. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Arizona's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 2 after adjusting for local costs and New Mexico's in 4.
| Measure | ArizonaAZ | New MexicoNM | GapAZ−NM | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median household incomeGap +$13,670 (+20%) · US $80,903 | $81,486#20 of 50 | $67,816#43 of 50 | +$13,670+20% | $80,903 | AZ |
| Unemployment rateGap +0.1 pts · US 3.95% | 4.3%#35 of 50 | 4.2%#32 of 50 | +0.1 pts | 3.95% | Even |
| GDP per capitaGap +$5,989 (+11%) · US $64,333 | $58,823#33 of 50 | $52,834#43 of 50 | +$5,989+11% | $64,333 | AZ |
| Real GDP growthGap +1.9 pts · US +1.91% | +3.1%#7 of 50 | +1.2%#44 of 50 | +1.9 pts | +1.91% | AZ |
| Population growthGap +0.95 pts · US +0.51% | +0.89%#8 of 50 | -0.06%#47 of 50 | +0.95 pts | +0.51% | AZ |
Median household income from the Census Bureau ACS; unemployment from BLS LAUS; GDP per capita and real GDP growth from the BEA; population growth from Census Bureau estimates.
Show all 20 occupations
| Occupation | AZ | NM | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|
| Software Developers | $125,121$126,372 in Phoenix | $130,234$117,211 in Albuquerque | NM |
| Electricians | $57,147$57,718 in Phoenix | $61,299$55,169 in Albuquerque | NM |
| Lawyers | $142,521$143,946 in Phoenix | $146,343$131,709 in Albuquerque | Even |
| Registered Nurses | $84,378$85,222 in Phoenix | $81,004$72,904 in Albuquerque | AZ |
| Sales Representatives (Wholesale/Manufacturing) | $61,348$61,961 in Phoenix | $64,547$58,092 in Albuquerque | NM |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $103,475$104,510 in Phoenix | $100,766$90,689 in Albuquerque | Even |
| Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) | $56,367$56,931 in Phoenix | $54,143$48,729 in Albuquerque | AZ |
| Welders, Cutters & Brazers | $45,927$46,386 in Phoenix | $47,934$43,141 in Albuquerque | NM |
| Civil Engineers | $97,481$98,456 in Phoenix | $95,573$86,016 in Albuquerque | Even |
| Secondary School Teachers | $64,308$64,951 in Phoenix | $66,213$59,592 in Albuquerque | Even |
| General & Operations Managers | $94,277$95,220 in Phoenix | $95,643$86,079 in Albuquerque | Even |
| Family Medicine Physicians | $221,024$223,234 in Phoenix | $221,963$199,767 in Albuquerque | Even |
| Accountants & Auditors | $75,251$76,004 in Phoenix | $74,453$67,008 in Albuquerque | Even |
| Police & Sheriff's Patrol Officers | $73,518$74,253 in Phoenix | $74,208$66,787 in Albuquerque | Even |
| Cooks, Restaurant | $32,432$32,756 in Phoenix | $33,062$29,756 in Albuquerque | Even |
| Heavy & Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers | $53,275$53,808 in Phoenix | $53,622$48,260 in Albuquerque | Even |
| Dietitians & Nutritionists | $68,674$69,361 in Phoenix | $68,356$61,520 in Albuquerque | Even |
| HVAC Mechanics & Installers | $55,599$56,155 in Phoenix | $55,882$50,294 in Albuquerque | Even |
| Construction Laborers | $42,890$43,319 in Phoenix | $42,704$38,434 in Albuquerque | Even |
| Mental Health Counselors | $51,113$51,624 in Phoenix | $51,043$45,939 in Albuquerque | Even |
BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, latest release: the median wage in each state's best-paying metro, adjusted for that metro's cost of living (BEA regional price parities). Sorted by the size of the gap.
Is Arizona safer than New Mexico?
Arizona is safer: 378 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 622 in New Mexico (FBI). Property crime runs 1,514 and 2,240 per 100,000.
| Measure | ArizonaAZ | New MexicoNM | GapAZ−NM | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -244 (-39%) · US 328 | 378#36 of 50 | 622#49 of 50 | -244-39% | 328 | AZ |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -726 (-32%) · US 1,535 | 1,514#29 of 50 | 2,240#50 of 50 | -726-32% | 1,535 | AZ |
FBI state crime estimates, offenses per 100,000 residents, latest release. Florida and North Dakota use the FBI's prior-year estimate because the latest year is based on limited data. Lower is ahead.
- Marana, AZ61 violent per 100K
- Sunland Park, NM280 violent per 100K
Among each state's 20 tracked cities, latest FBI release.
Which has better schools and health, Arizona or New Mexico?
Arizona scores higher for education (#47 of 50 vs #50), with high school graduation rates of 77.3% and 76.6%. Arizona scores higher for health (#31 vs #42); life expectancy is 76.7 years in Arizona and 74.5 in New Mexico.
| Measure | ArizonaAZ | New MexicoNM | GapAZ−NM | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap +14 · US 273 | 270#33 of 50 | 256#50 of 50 | +14 | 273 | AZ |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap +9 · US 257 | 254#39 of 50 | 245#50 of 50 | +9 | 257 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap +0.7 pts · US 85.62% | 77.3%#49 of 50 | 76.6%#50 of 50 | +0.7 pts | 85.62% | AZ |
| Life expectancyGap +2.2 yrs · US 76.9 | 76.7#30 of 50 | 74.5#42 of 50 | +2.2 yrs | 76.9 | AZ |
| Adults with obesityGap -1.2 pts · US 34.03% | 33.3%#21 of 50 | 34.5%#28 of 50 | -1.2 pts | 34.03% | AZ |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +0.2 pts · US 7.6% | 10.3%#44 of 50 | 10.1%#42 of 50 | +0.2 pts | 7.6% | Even |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +5 pts (+13%) · US 38.8 | 45#48 of 50 | 40#28 of 50 | +5 pts+13% | 38.8 | NM |
High school graduation rate from NCES; life expectancy from the CDC National Center for Health Statistics; median air quality index from EPA AirData (lower is cleaner).
- Peoria, AZeducation score 95.1
- Los Alamos, NMeducation score 93
City education scores blend graduation rate, student-teacher ratio and per-pupil spending (NCES). State education scores combine NAEP math and reading with the graduation rate; health scores combine life expectancy, adult obesity and the uninsured rate. Education: Arizona #47, New Mexico #50. Health: Arizona #31, New Mexico #42.
Are more people moving from Arizona to New Mexico, or from New Mexico to Arizona?
3,006 households moved from Arizona to New Mexico and 3,435 moved from New Mexico to Arizona in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 429 households for Arizona. Movers to New Mexico reported an average income of $56,623; movers to Arizona reported $60,445. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 3,394 people (±1,092) moving from Arizona to New Mexico and 7,401 (±2,551) the other way, a net gain of about 4,007 people for Arizona beyond the margin of error.
Bars show people (Census ACS, latest release, with 90% margins of error). IRS counts tax-filing households and reports the movers' average income; pairs outside a state's top ten origins and destinations are not published.
| Measure | ArizonaAZ | New MexicoNM | GapAZ−NM | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Households moving inIRSGap +91,103 (+298%) | 121,675#10 of 50 | 30,572#36 of 50 | +91,103+298% | AZ |
| Households moving outIRSGap +73,574 (+239%) | 104,359#38 of 50 | 30,785#15 of 50 | +73,574+239% | NM |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +17,529 | +17,316#6 of 50 | -213#30 of 50 | +17,529 | AZ |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap +2.4 | +2.3#10 of 50 | -0.1#30 of 50 | +2.4 | AZ |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$21,395 (+32%) | $87,497#11 of 50 | $66,102#37 of 50 | +$21,395+32% | AZ |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$6,923 (+10%) | $75,593#21 of 50 | $68,670#34 of 50 | +$6,923+10% | AZ |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap +5.2 | +4.1#12 of 50 | -1.1#38 of 50 | +5.2 | AZ |
Each state's total inbound and outbound households and the movers' average income from IRS Statistics of Income; net domestic migration per 1,000 residents from Census Bureau population estimates. Latest releases.
Which is better for retirees, families or remote workers, Arizona or New Mexico?
Arizona is the better fit for families, retirees, young professionals, and small business; New Mexico is the better fit for remote workers; 1 of the six lifestyle indexes are within 4 places. Each index re-weights the same 11 category scores for one kind of household.
| Measure | ArizonaAZ | New MexicoNM | GapAZ−NM | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FamiliesGap -5 places | #45score 47.8 | #50score 29.1 | -5 places | AZ |
| RetireesGap -5 places | #37score 54.6 | #42score 52.7 | -5 places | AZ |
| Remote WorkersGap +6 places | #35score 47.2 | #29score 50 | +6 places | NM |
| Young ProfessionalsGap -17 places | #31score 51 | #48score 34.6 | -17 places | AZ |
| Small BusinessGap -17 places | #30score 52.2 | #47score 34.6 | -17 places | AZ |
| Outdoor EnthusiastsGap -1 places | #28score 42.7 | #29score 42.2 | -1 places | Even |
Rank of 50 on each lifestyle index. A state is called ahead when the ranks are at least 4 places apart.
- FamiliesArizona (#45 vs #50)
- RetireesArizona (#37 vs #42)
- Remote WorkersNew Mexico (#29 vs #35)
- Young ProfessionalsArizona (#31 vs #48)
- Small BusinessArizona (#30 vs #47)
- Outdoor EnthusiastsEven (#28 vs #29)
Which cities stand out in Arizona and New Mexico?
Arizona has 23 tracked cities and New Mexico has 20; the largest are Phoenix and Albuquerque. The table picks the best city in each state for one purpose at a time.
| Best for | ArizonaAZ | New MexicoNM |
|---|---|---|
| Largest citypopulation | Phoenix1,642,323 people | Albuquerque562,218 people |
| Highest composite scorecomposite score | Queen Creekscore 66.2 | Los Alamosscore 75.8 |
| Safest cityviolent crime per 100,000 | Marana61 violent per 100K | Sunland Park280 violent per 100K |
| Cheapest citycost of living index | Yumacost index 92.7 | Roswellcost index 85.9 |
| Most walkableEPA walkability index, 1 to 20 | Tempewalkability 14.2 of 20 | Albuquerquewalkability 13 of 20 |
| Cleanest airmedian air quality index, county | Lake Havasu Citycounty median AQI 17 | Los Alamoscounty median AQI 13 |
| Best schoolsgraduation rate, % | Peoria95.1% graduation rate | Los Alamos93% graduation rate |
| Richest citymedian household income | Queen Creekmedian income $141,978 | Los Alamosmedian income $141,018 |
| Fastest growingpopulation growth, % | Queen Creek+8.2% growth | Los Lunas+3.1% growth |
Among the 20 tracked cities in each state. Census ACS, FBI, NCES and BEA data, latest releases.
How do Arizona and New Mexico compare on everything else?
State finances, environment, and getting around. Arizona carries AA credit rating and New Mexico AA.
Show fiscal, environment and commuting tables
| Measure | ArizonaAZ | New MexicoNM | GapAZ−NM | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renewable share of electricityGap -37 pts · US 29.34% | 16%#26 of 50 | 53%#10 of 50 | -37 pts | 29.34% | NM |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap +4.1 (+15%) · US 29.6 | 31.5#30 of 50 | 27.4#26 of 50 | +4.1+15% | 29.6 | NM |
| Public land shareGap +3.9 pts · US 17.16% | 38.6%#8 of 50 | 34.7%#10 of 50 | +3.9 pts | 17.16% | AZ |
| Mean travel time to workGap +2.4 min · US 25.2 min | 26.4 min#31 of 50 | 24 min#19 of 50 | +2.4 min | 25.2 min | NM |
| Commuters using public transitGap +0.6 pts · US 2.29% | 1.1%#24 of 50 | 0.5%#43 of 50 | +0.6 pts | 2.29% | AZ |
| Workers working from homeGap +6 pts · US 12.28% | 16.3%#4 of 50 | 10.3%#35 of 50 | +6 pts | 12.28% | AZ |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +3.1 pts · US 92.67% | 93.6%#15 of 50 | 90.5%#46 of 50 | +3.1 pts | 92.67% | AZ |
Renewable share of electricity from the EIA; natural disaster risk from FEMA's National Risk Index; public land share from USGS PAD-US; mean travel time to work, transit and work-from-home shares from the Census Bureau ACS; households with a broadband subscription from the Census Bureau ACS.
| Measure | ArizonaAZ | New MexicoNM | GapAZ−NM | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap 0 pts · US 92.7 | 90#35 of 50 | 90#41 of 50 | 0 pts | 92.7 | Even |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -11 pts · US 12.39% | 11.5%#21 of 50 | 22.5%#4 of 50 | -11 pts | 12.39% | NM |
| Pension funded ratioGap +4 pts · US 74.3% | 72%#30 of 50 | 68%#36 of 50 | +4 pts | 74.3% | AZ |
| State debt per capitaGap -$860 (-28%) · US $3,506 | $2,190#14 of 50 | $3,050#28 of 50 | -$860-28% | $3,506 | AZ |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -4.7 pts · US +4.66% | +4.8%#25 of 50 | +9.5%#2 of 50 | -4.7 pts | +4.66% | NM |
Credit rating index (S&P / Moody's; Arizona AA, New Mexico AA), rainy-day fund and budget balance as a share of spending (Pew, NASBO), pension funded ratio (Pew) and state debt per capita (Census Bureau).
Arizona vs New Mexico: every metric side by side
Every measure behind the category scores, with each state's rank of 50 and the US figure. Arizona is ahead on 23 of 50, New Mexico on 18, and 9 are even.
Show all 54 metrics
| Measure | ArizonaAZ | New MexicoNM | GapAZ−NM | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PopulationGap +5,498,320 (+259%) · US 6.8 million | 7.6 million#14 of 50 | 2.1 million#36 of 50 | +5,498,320+259% | 6.8 million | AZ |
| Median household incomeGap +$13,670 (+20%) · US $80,903 | $81,486#20 of 50 | $67,816#43 of 50 | +$13,670+20% | $80,903 | AZ |
| Unemployment rateGap +0.1 pts · US 3.95% | 4.3%#35 of 50 | 4.2%#32 of 50 | +0.1 pts | 3.95% | Even |
| Population growthGap +0.95 pts · US +0.51% | +0.89%#8 of 50 | -0.06%#47 of 50 | +0.95 pts | +0.51% | AZ |
| GDP per capitaGap +$5,989 (+11%) · US $64,333 | $58,823#33 of 50 | $52,834#43 of 50 | +$5,989+11% | $64,333 | AZ |
| Real GDP growthGap +1.9 pts · US +1.91% | +3.1%#7 of 50 | +1.2%#44 of 50 | +1.9 pts | +1.91% | AZ |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -244 (-39%) · US 328 | 378#36 of 50 | 622#49 of 50 | -244-39% | 328 | AZ |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -726 (-32%) · US 1,535 | 1,514#29 of 50 | 2,240#50 of 50 | -726-32% | 1,535 | AZ |
| High school graduation rateGap +0.7 pts · US 85.62% | 77.3%#49 of 50 | 76.6%#50 of 50 | +0.7 pts | 85.62% | AZ |
| NAEP math score, grade 4Gap +9 · US 237 | 232#45 of 50 | 224#50 of 50 | +9 | 237 | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap +14 · US 273 | 270#33 of 50 | 256#50 of 50 | +14 | 273 | AZ |
| NAEP reading score, grade 4Gap +8 · US 214 | 208#45 of 50 | 201#50 of 50 | +8 | 214 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap +9 · US 257 | 254#39 of 50 | 245#50 of 50 | +9 | 257 | Even |
| Life expectancyGap +2.2 yrs · US 76.9 | 76.7#30 of 50 | 74.5#42 of 50 | +2.2 yrs | 76.9 | AZ |
| Adults with obesityGap -1.2 pts · US 34.03% | 33.3%#21 of 50 | 34.5%#28 of 50 | -1.2 pts | 34.03% | AZ |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +0.2 pts · US 7.6% | 10.3%#44 of 50 | 10.1%#42 of 50 | +0.2 pts | 7.6% | Even |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$99,749 (+31%) · US $368,697 | $417,990#34 of 50 | $318,241#20 of 50 | +$99,749+31% | $368,697 | NM |
| Home value change, one yearGap -2.8 pts · US +1.2% | -1.1%#46 of 50 | +1.7%#30 of 50 | -2.8 pts | +1.2% | NM |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$223 (+15%) · US $1,948 | $1,722#25 of 50 | $1,499#13 of 50 | +$223+15% | $1,948 | NM |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$20,544 (+25%) · US $100,006 | $104,042#30 of 50 | $83,498#18 of 50 | +$20,544+25% | $100,006 | NM |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +8.5 pts (+9%) · US 100 | 100.7#35 of 50 | 92.2#15 of 50 | +8.5 pts+9% | 100 | NM |
| Home value to income ratioGap +0.4x (+9%) · US 4.6x | 5.1x#35 of 50 | 4.7x#31 of 50 | +0.4x+9% | 4.6x | NM |
| Residential electricity priceGap +0.24¢ (+2%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 15.32¢/kWh#25 of 50 | 15.08¢/kWh#22 of 50 | +0.24¢+2% | 17.84¢/kWh | Even |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$8.75 (+89%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $18.58/Mcf#40 of 50 | $9.83/Mcf#4 of 50 | +$8.75+89% | $15.83/Mcf | NM |
| Gasoline priceGap +$0.78 (+26%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.80/gal#44 of 50 | $3.02/gal#8 of 50 | +$0.78+26% | $3.32/gal | NM |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap -0.7 pts (-1%) · US 100 | 95.4#10 of 50 | 96.1#17 of 50 | -0.7 pts-1% | 100 | Even |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap — · US $15,633 | $16,384#30 of 50 | — | — | $15,633 | Even |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -1.4 pts · US 8.74% | 8.22%#17 of 50 | 9.62%#39 of 50 | -1.4 pts | 8.74% | AZ |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap -3.4 pts · US 5.46% | 2.5%#11 of 50 | 5.9%#31 of 50 | -3.4 pts | 5.46% | AZ |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap -0.18 pts · US 1.02% | 0.56%#11 of 50 | 0.74%#17 of 50 | -0.18 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +0.85 pts · US 6.66% | 8.52%#40 of 50 | 7.67%#34 of 50 | +0.85 pts | 6.66% | NM |
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap 0 pts · US 92.7 | 90#35 of 50 | 90#41 of 50 | 0 pts | 92.7 | Even |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -11 pts · US 12.39% | 11.5%#21 of 50 | 22.5%#4 of 50 | -11 pts | 12.39% | NM |
| Pension funded ratioGap +4 pts · US 74.3% | 72%#30 of 50 | 68%#36 of 50 | +4 pts | 74.3% | AZ |
| State debt per capitaGap -$860 (-28%) · US $3,506 | $2,190#14 of 50 | $3,050#28 of 50 | -$860-28% | $3,506 | AZ |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -4.7 pts · US +4.66% | +4.8%#25 of 50 | +9.5%#2 of 50 | -4.7 pts | +4.66% | NM |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +5 pts (+13%) · US 38.8 | 45#48 of 50 | 40#28 of 50 | +5 pts+13% | 38.8 | NM |
| Renewable share of electricityGap -37 pts · US 29.34% | 16%#26 of 50 | 53%#10 of 50 | -37 pts | 29.34% | NM |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap +4.1 (+15%) · US 29.6 | 31.5#30 of 50 | 27.4#26 of 50 | +4.1+15% | 29.6 | NM |
| Public land shareGap +3.9 pts · US 17.16% | 38.6%#8 of 50 | 34.7%#10 of 50 | +3.9 pts | 17.16% | AZ |
| Mean travel time to workGap +2.4 min · US 25.2 min | 26.4 min#31 of 50 | 24 min#19 of 50 | +2.4 min | 25.2 min | NM |
| Commuters using public transitGap +0.6 pts · US 2.29% | 1.1%#24 of 50 | 0.5%#43 of 50 | +0.6 pts | 2.29% | AZ |
| Workers working from homeGap +6 pts · US 12.28% | 16.3%#4 of 50 | 10.3%#35 of 50 | +6 pts | 12.28% | AZ |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +3.1 pts · US 92.67% | 93.6%#15 of 50 | 90.5%#46 of 50 | +3.1 pts | 92.67% | AZ |
| Households moving inIRSGap +91,103 (+298%) · US 78,682 | 121,675#10 of 50 | 30,572#36 of 50 | +91,103+298% | 78,682 | AZ |
| Households moving outIRSGap +73,574 (+239%) · US 78,715 | 104,359#38 of 50 | 30,785#15 of 50 | +73,574+239% | 78,715 | NM |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +17,529 · US -33 | +17,316#6 of 50 | -213#30 of 50 | +17,529 | -33 | AZ |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap +2.4 · US +0.4 | +2.3#10 of 50 | -0.1#30 of 50 | +2.4 | +0.4 | AZ |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$21,395 (+32%) · US $77,690 | $87,497#11 of 50 | $66,102#37 of 50 | +$21,395+32% | $77,690 | AZ |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$6,923 (+10%) · US $77,024 | $75,593#21 of 50 | $68,670#34 of 50 | +$6,923+10% | $77,024 | AZ |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap +5.2 · US +1.1 | +4.1#12 of 50 | -1.1#38 of 50 | +5.2 | +1.1 | AZ |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$15,113 · US -$11,758 | -$19,573#29 of 50 | -$4,460#16 of 50 | -$15,113 | -$11,758 | NM |
| Left after costs, single adultearning $75K a yearGap -$4,235 · US +$31,418 | +$29,757#30 of 50 | +$33,992#20 of 50 | -$4,235 | +$31,418 | NM |
| Left after costs, retiree coupleearning $75K a yearGap -$5,605 · US +$35,970 | +$33,427#29 of 50 | +$39,032#18 of 50 | -$5,605 | +$35,970 | NM |
Every metric in the registry, direction-aware: ahead means better for a resident. Ranks are among the states with data. Sources are listed at the foot of the page.
Key takeaways
What the Arizona and New Mexico numbers say when read together.
Arizona ranks higher overall
Arizona leads 6 of the 11 categories to New Mexico's 3, with 2 even; New Mexico is ahead on environment and affordability. Across all 50 measures with data on both sides, Arizona is ahead on 23 and New Mexico on 18.
New Mexico is cheaper day to day
New Mexico's cost of living index is 92.2 against 100.7 in Arizona (US = 100). The typical home costs $417,990 in Arizona and $318,241 in New Mexico. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$19,573 a year after typical costs in Arizona and -$4,460 in New Mexico.
Arizona takes a smaller share in taxes
Arizona collects 8.22% of income in state and local taxes (low income tax, low property tax, high sales tax); New Mexico collects 9.62% (middle of the pack on income, property and sales taxes).
Arizona pays more and is safer
Median household income is $81,486 in Arizona and $67,816 in New Mexico, with unemployment at 4.3% and 4.2%. Violent crime runs 378 per 100,000 residents in Arizona and 622 in New Mexico.
People move to Arizona on net
7,401 people moved to Arizona from New Mexico in the latest Census release, against 3,394 going the other way.
Arizona fits families and retirees better
For families, Arizona ranks #45 of 50 and New Mexico #50; for retirees, Arizona ranks #37 and New Mexico #42.
Arizona vs New Mexico: frequently asked questions
Is Arizona or New Mexico better to live in?
Arizona ranks #38 of 50 overall and New Mexico #49 as of the latest release. New Mexico is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 92.2 vs 100.7), carries a 1.4-point higher tax burden, and has a 39% higher violent crime rate. Arizona scores higher overall, leading 6 of 11 categories to 3.
Is Arizona cheaper than New Mexico?
New Mexico is cheaper than Arizona: cost of living index 92.2 vs 100.7 (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 would have -$19,573 left after typical housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes in Arizona, and -$4,460 in New Mexico. The typical home value is $417,990 in Arizona and $318,241 in New Mexico.
Which has lower taxes, Arizona or New Mexico?
Arizona has the lower tax burden: 8.22% of income in state and local taxes vs 9.62% in New Mexico. Arizona's top income tax rate is 2.5%, its effective property tax rate 0.56% and its combined sales tax 8.52%; New Mexico's are 5.9%, 0.74% and 7.67%.
Is Arizona safer than New Mexico?
Arizona is safer: 378 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 622 in New Mexico, per the FBI. Arizona ranks #36 of 50 for violent crime and New Mexico #49. Property crime is 1,514 per 100,000 in Arizona and 2,240 in New Mexico. The safest tracked cities are Marana, AZ, and Sunland Park, NM.
Are homes more expensive in Arizona or New Mexico?
Homes are 31% more expensive in Arizona: the typical home value is $417,990 in Arizona and $318,241 in New Mexico. Buying the typical home takes about $104,042 of household income in Arizona and $83,498 in New Mexico, against median incomes of $81,486 and $67,816.
Do people earn more in Arizona or New Mexico?
Arizona pays more: median household income is $81,486 vs $67,816 in New Mexico, per the Census Bureau. Unemployment is 4.3% in Arizona and 4.2% in New Mexico. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Arizona's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 2 after adjusting for local costs and New Mexico's in 4, with 14 even.
Are more people moving from Arizona to New Mexico or from New Mexico to Arizona?
3,006 households moved from Arizona to New Mexico and 3,435 moved from New Mexico to Arizona in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 429 households for Arizona. Movers to New Mexico reported an average income of $56,623; movers to Arizona reported $60,445. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 3,394 people (±1,092) moving from Arizona to New Mexico and 7,401 (±2,551) the other way, a net gain of about 4,007 people for Arizona beyond the margin of error.
Which is better for retirees, Arizona or New Mexico?
Arizona is the better fit for retirees: #37 of 50 on the retiree index vs #42 for New Mexico. Arizona has low income tax, low property tax, high sales tax; New Mexico has middle of the pack on income, property and sales taxes. A retiree couple on $75,000 would have +$33,427 left after typical costs in Arizona and +$39,032 in New Mexico.
Which is better for families, Arizona or New Mexico?
Arizona is the better fit for families: #45 of 50 on the families index vs #50 for New Mexico. High school graduation rates are 77.3% and 76.6%. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$19,573 after typical costs in Arizona and -$4,460 in New Mexico.
Is New Mexico better than Arizona?
No: Arizona ranks higher than New Mexico overall, #38 of 50 vs #49, with a composite score of 47.8 to 30.6. Arizona leads 6 of 11 categories and New Mexico leads 3, including environment and affordability. Which is better for you depends on how you weigh cost, safety, schools, taxes and pay.
Compare a different pair
Swap either state, or jump to the matchups people open alongside Arizona vs New Mexico.
Why this pair is featured: bordering states, major moving corridor (3,435 households moved in the busier direction in the latest IRS release).