California vs New Mexico: Which Is Better to Live In?
California ranks #47 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 110.7), has a 1.4-point lower tax burden, and has a 30% higher violent crime rate. California scores higher overall, leading 6 of 11 categories to 5.
- Typical home value is 58% lower in New Mexico ($318,241 vs. $764,158 in California).
- Residential electricity price is 54% lower in New Mexico (15.08¢/kWh vs. 32.54¢/kWh in California).
- Typical rent, largest metro is 49% lower in New Mexico ($1,499 vs. $2,941 in California).
| Measure | CaliforniaCA | New MexicoNM | GapCA−NM | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall scorecomposite of 100, rank of 50Gap +9.6 pts | 40.2#47 of 50 · D | 30.6#49 of 50 · F | +9.6 pts | — | CA |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +18.5 pts (+20%) · US 100 | 110.7#50 of 50 | 92.2#15 of 50 | +18.5 pts+20% | 100 | NM |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$55,537 · US -$11,758 | -$59,997#48 of 50 | -$4,460#16 of 50 | -$55,537 | -$11,758 | NM |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$445,917 (+140%) · US $368,697 | $764,158#49 of 50 | $318,241#20 of 50 | +$445,917+140% | $368,697 | NM |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +1.38 pts · US 8.74% | 11%#47 of 50 | 9.62%#39 of 50 | +1.38 pts | 8.74% | NM |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -189 (-30%) · US 328 | 433#44 of 50 | 622#49 of 50 | -189-30% | 328 | CA |
| Median household incomeGap +$32,333 (+48%) · US $80,903 | $100,149#5 of 50 | $67,816#43 of 50 | +$32,333+48% | $80,903 | CA |
| High school graduation rateGap +10.4 pts · US 85.62% | 87%#23 of 50 | 76.6%#50 of 50 | +10.4 pts | 85.62% | CA |
| Life expectancyGap +4.8 yrs · US 76.9 | 79.3#7 of 50 | 74.5#42 of 50 | +4.8 yrs | 76.9 | CA |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -100,184 · US -33 | -100,397#50 of 50 | -213#30 of 50 | -100,184 | -33 | NM |
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 California or New Mexico better to live in?
California scores higher overall: 40.2 to 30.6 out of 100, #47 of 50 against #49. California leads 6 of 11 categories, New Mexico leads 5, and 0 are within 3 points.
| Category | Weight | CaliforniaCA | New MexicoNM | Gap | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy15% of scoregap +9.3 | 15% | 41.5#34 · C+ | 32.2#41 · C | +9.3 pts | CA |
| Safety12% of scoregap +21.8 | 12% | 54.7#43 · D | 32.9#49 · F | +21.8 pts | CA |
| Health12% of scoregap +41.4 | 12% | 77.6#5 · A+ | 36.2#42 · C | +41.4 pts | CA |
| Education12% of scoregap +45.1 | 12% | 51.7#37 · C | 6.6#50 · F | +45.1 pts | CA |
| Affordability10% of scoregap -66.7 | 10% | 14.3#49 · F | 81.0#13 · B+ | -66.7 pts | NM |
| Fiscal Health8% of scoregap -14.5 | 8% | 47.5#40 · C | 62.0#21 · B | -14.5 pts | NM |
| Growth7% of scoregap -17.1 | 7% | 6.1#50 · F | 23.2#43 · D | -17.1 pts | NM |
| Transportation7% of scoregap +3.1 | 7% | 46.0#35 · C | 42.9#42 · C | +3.1 pts | CA |
| Livability7% of scoregap +8.8 | 7% | 31.7#27 · C+ | 22.9#44 · D | +8.8 pts | CA |
| Outdoor Access6% of scoregap -3.5 | 6% | 40.8#12 · B+ | 44.3#10 · A | -3.5 pts | NM |
| Environment4% of scoregap -26.1 | 4% | 24.7#47 · D | 50.8#13 · B+ | -26.1 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 California cheaper than New Mexico?
New Mexico is cheaper: cost of living index 92.2 vs 110.7 in California (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 keeps $55,537 more a year in New Mexico after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes.
| Measure | CaliforniaCA | New MexicoNM | GapCA−NM | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +18.5 pts (+20%) · US 100 | 110.7#50 of 50 | 92.2#15 of 50 | +18.5 pts+20% | 100 | NM |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +10 pts (+10%) · US 100 | 106.1#46 of 50 | 96.1#17 of 50 | +10 pts+10% | 100 | NM |
| Residential electricity priceGap +17.46¢ (+116%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 32.54¢/kWh#49 of 50 | 15.08¢/kWh#22 of 50 | +17.46¢+116% | 17.84¢/kWh | NM |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$12.18 (+124%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $22.01/Mcf#47 of 50 | $9.83/Mcf#4 of 50 | +$12.18+124% | $15.83/Mcf | NM |
| Gasoline priceGap +$1.40 (+46%) · US $3.32/gal | $4.42/gal#48 of 50 | $3.02/gal#8 of 50 | +$1.40+46% | $3.32/gal | NM |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap — · US $15,633 | $23,071#46 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 | CaliforniaCA | New MexicoNM | GapCA−NM | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Adultearning $75,000Gap -$21,863 | +$12,129costs $62,871 | +$33,992costs $41,009 | -$21,863 | NM |
| Couple, No Kidsearning $75,000Gap -$28,884 | -$2,304costs $77,304 | +$26,580costs $48,421 | -$28,884 | NM |
| Family of 4earning $75,000Gap -$55,537 | -$59,997costs $134,997 | -$4,460costs $79,461 | -$55,537 | NM |
| Retiree Coupleearning $75,000Gap -$24,756 | +$14,276costs $60,724 | +$39,032costs $35,968 | -$24,756 | 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 | CaliforniaCA | New MexicoNM | GapCA−NM | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HousingGap +$30,129 | $51,794 | $21,665 | +$30,129 | NM |
| ChildcareGap +$19,774 | $46,142 | $26,368 | +$19,774 | NM |
| UtilitiesGap +$888 | $5,314 | $4,426 | +$888 | NM |
| GroceriesGap +$1,126 | $11,950 | $10,824 | +$1,126 | NM |
| TransportationGap +$4,400 | $13,891 | $9,491 | +$4,400 | NM |
| State and local taxesGap -$781 | $5,906 | $6,687 | -$781 | CA |
Annual cost lines for a family of four (two adults, two children). Lower is ahead.
Which has lower taxes, California or New Mexico?
New Mexico collects a smaller share of income in state and local taxes: 9.62% vs 11%. California has high income tax, high sales tax, with property tax in the middle of the pack; New Mexico has middle of the pack on income, property and sales taxes.
| Measure | CaliforniaCA | New MexicoNM | GapCA−NM | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +1.38 pts · US 8.74% | 11%#47 of 50 | 9.62%#39 of 50 | +1.38 pts | 8.74% | NM |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +8.5 pts · US 5.46% | 14.4%#48 of 50 | 5.9%#31 of 50 | +8.5 pts | 5.46% | NM |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap -0.03 pts · US 1.02% | 0.71%#15 of 50 | 0.74%#17 of 50 | -0.03 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +1.32 pts · US 6.66% | 8.99%#44 of 50 | 7.67%#34 of 50 | +1.32 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 California or New Mexico?
Homes cost 140% more in California: a typical home value of $764,158 in California vs $318,241 in New Mexico. Buying the typical home takes about $197,262 of income in California and $83,498 in New Mexico; the median household earns $100,149 and $67,816.
| Measure | CaliforniaCA | New MexicoNM | GapCA−NM | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$445,917 (+140%) · US $368,697 | $764,158#49 of 50 | $318,241#20 of 50 | +$445,917+140% | $368,697 | NM |
| Home value change, one yearGap -1.3 pts · US +1.2% | +0.4%#39 of 50 | +1.7%#30 of 50 | -1.3 pts | +1.2% | NM |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$1,442 (+96%) · US $1,948 | $2,941#47 of 50 | $1,499#13 of 50 | +$1,442+96% | $1,948 | NM |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$113,764 (+136%) · US $100,006 | $197,262#49 of 50 | $83,498#18 of 50 | +$113,764+136% | $100,006 | NM |
| Home value to income ratioGap +2.9x (+62%) · US 4.6x | 7.6x#49 of 50 | 4.7x#31 of 50 | +2.9x+62% | 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.
| CA | NM | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly payment, 20% down | $3,932 | $1,637 |
| Income needed vs. median | +97% | +23% |
| Five-year change | +13.9% | +25.9% |
| Market temperature | Hot | Cool |
| Largest metro | Los Angeles | 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 California or New Mexico?
California pays more: median household income $100,149 vs $67,816, with unemployment at 5.5% in California and 4.2% in New Mexico. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, California's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 20 after adjusting for local costs and New Mexico's in 0.
| Measure | CaliforniaCA | New MexicoNM | GapCA−NM | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median household incomeGap +$32,333 (+48%) · US $80,903 | $100,149#5 of 50 | $67,816#43 of 50 | +$32,333+48% | $80,903 | CA |
| Unemployment rateGap +1.3 pts · US 3.95% | 5.5%#50 of 50 | 4.2%#32 of 50 | +1.3 pts | 3.95% | NM |
| GDP per capitaGap +$35,536 (+67%) · US $64,333 | $88,370#4 of 50 | $52,834#43 of 50 | +$35,536+67% | $64,333 | CA |
| Real GDP growthGap +1.6 pts · US +1.91% | +2.8%#10 of 50 | +1.2%#44 of 50 | +1.6 pts | +1.91% | CA |
| Population growthGap +0.04 pts · US +0.51% | -0.02%#46 of 50 | -0.06%#47 of 50 | +0.04 pts | +0.51% | Even |
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 | CA | NM | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|
| Software Developers | $213,666$241,443 in San Francisco | $130,234$117,211 in Albuquerque | CA |
| Lawyers | $226,574$256,029 in San Francisco | $146,343$131,709 in Albuquerque | CA |
| Registered Nurses | $139,711$157,873 in San Francisco | $81,004$72,904 in Albuquerque | CA |
| Family Medicine Physicians | $278,539$314,749 in San Francisco | $221,963$199,767 in Albuquerque | CA |
| Police & Sheriff's Patrol Officers | $116,596$131,753 in San Francisco | $74,208$66,787 in Albuquerque | CA |
| Electricians | $96,374$108,903 in San Francisco | $61,299$55,169 in Albuquerque | CA |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $127,177$143,710 in San Francisco | $100,766$90,689 in Albuquerque | CA |
| General & Operations Managers | $120,991$136,720 in San Francisco | $95,643$86,079 in Albuquerque | CA |
| Civil Engineers | $118,769$134,209 in San Francisco | $95,573$86,016 in Albuquerque | CA |
| Accountants & Auditors | $94,831$107,159 in San Francisco | $74,453$67,008 in Albuquerque | CA |
| Dietitians & Nutritionists | $87,326$98,678 in San Francisco | $68,356$61,520 in Albuquerque | CA |
| Cooks, Restaurant | $49,551$55,993 in San Francisco | $33,062$29,756 in Albuquerque | CA |
| Sales Representatives (Wholesale/Manufacturing) | $78,592$88,809 in San Francisco | $64,547$58,092 in Albuquerque | CA |
| Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) | $67,881$76,705 in San Francisco | $54,143$48,729 in Albuquerque | CA |
| Mental Health Counselors | $63,554$71,816 in San Francisco | $51,043$45,939 in Albuquerque | CA |
| Secondary School Teachers | $77,923$88,053 in San Francisco | $66,213$59,592 in Albuquerque | CA |
| Heavy & Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers | $65,182$73,656 in San Francisco | $53,622$48,260 in Albuquerque | CA |
| HVAC Mechanics & Installers | $65,493$74,007 in San Francisco | $55,882$50,294 in Albuquerque | CA |
| Welders, Cutters & Brazers | $56,174$63,477 in San Francisco | $47,934$43,141 in Albuquerque | CA |
| Construction Laborers | $49,980$56,477 in San Francisco | $42,704$38,434 in Albuquerque | CA |
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 California safer than New Mexico?
California is safer: 433 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 622 in New Mexico (FBI). Property crime runs 1,792 and 2,240 per 100,000.
| Measure | CaliforniaCA | New MexicoNM | GapCA−NM | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -189 (-30%) · US 328 | 433#44 of 50 | 622#49 of 50 | -189-30% | 328 | CA |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -447 (-20%) · US 1,535 | 1,792#40 of 50 | 2,240#50 of 50 | -447-20% | 1,535 | CA |
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.
- Yorba Linda, CA47 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, California or New Mexico?
California scores higher for education (#37 of 50 vs #50), with high school graduation rates of 87% and 76.6%. California scores higher for health (#5 vs #42); life expectancy is 79.3 years in California and 74.5 in New Mexico.
| Measure | CaliforniaCA | New MexicoNM | GapCA−NM | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap +13 · US 273 | 269#36 of 50 | 256#50 of 50 | +13 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap +9 · US 257 | 254#38 of 50 | 245#50 of 50 | +9 | 257 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap +10.4 pts · US 85.62% | 87%#23 of 50 | 76.6%#50 of 50 | +10.4 pts | 85.62% | CA |
| Life expectancyGap +4.8 yrs · US 76.9 | 79.3#7 of 50 | 74.5#42 of 50 | +4.8 yrs | 76.9 | CA |
| Adults with obesityGap -5.4 pts · US 34.03% | 29.1%#6 of 50 | 34.5%#28 of 50 | -5.4 pts | 34.03% | CA |
| Residents without health insuranceGap -4.2 pts · US 7.6% | 5.9%#16 of 50 | 10.1%#42 of 50 | -4.2 pts | 7.6% | CA |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +8 pts (+20%) · US 38.8 | 48#50 of 50 | 40#28 of 50 | +8 pts+20% | 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).
- San Ramon, CAeducation score 98
- 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: California #37, New Mexico #50. Health: California #5, New Mexico #42.
Are more people moving from California to New Mexico, or from New Mexico to California?
3,262 households moved from California to New Mexico and 2,364 moved from New Mexico to California in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 898 households for New Mexico. Movers to New Mexico reported an average income of $76,801; movers to California reported $67,574. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 8,699 people (±2,726) moving from California to New Mexico and 2,695 (±1,031) the other way, a net gain of about 6,004 people for New Mexico 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 | CaliforniaCA | New MexicoNM | GapCA−NM | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Households moving inIRSGap +222,291 (+727%) | 252,863#3 of 50 | 30,572#36 of 50 | +222,291+727% | CA |
| Households moving outIRSGap +322,475 (+1,048%) | 353,260#50 of 50 | 30,785#15 of 50 | +322,475+1,048% | NM |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -100,184 | -100,397#50 of 50 | -213#30 of 50 | -100,184 | NM |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -2.5 | -2.6#49 of 50 | -0.1#30 of 50 | -2.5 | NM |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$29,421 (+45%) | $95,523#5 of 50 | $66,102#37 of 50 | +$29,421+45% | CA |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$33,450 (+49%) | $102,120#6 of 50 | $68,670#34 of 50 | +$33,450+49% | CA |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -4.7 | -5.8#47 of 50 | -1.1#38 of 50 | -4.7 | NM |
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, California or New Mexico?
New Mexico is the better fit for retirees and remote workers; 4 of the six lifestyle indexes are within 4 places. Each index re-weights the same 11 category scores for one kind of household.
| Measure | CaliforniaCA | New MexicoNM | GapCA−NM | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FamiliesGap -2 places | #48score 43.1 | #50score 29.1 | -2 places | Even |
| RetireesGap +7 places | #49score 43.4 | #42score 52.7 | +7 places | NM |
| Remote WorkersGap +21 places | #50score 19.5 | #29score 50 | +21 places | NM |
| Young ProfessionalsGap +2 places | #50score 24.3 | #48score 34.6 | +2 places | Even |
| Small BusinessGap +3 places | #50score 26.8 | #47score 34.6 | +3 places | Even |
| Outdoor EnthusiastsGap +2 places | #31score 36.7 | #29score 42.2 | +2 places | Even |
Rank of 50 on each lifestyle index. A state is called ahead when the ranks are at least 4 places apart.
- FamiliesEven (#48 vs #50)
- RetireesNew Mexico (#42 vs #49)
- Remote WorkersNew Mexico (#29 vs #50)
- Young ProfessionalsEven (#50 vs #48)
- Small BusinessEven (#50 vs #47)
- Outdoor EnthusiastsEven (#31 vs #29)
Which cities stand out in California and New Mexico?
California has 188 tracked cities and New Mexico has 20; the largest are Los Angeles and Albuquerque. The table picks the best city in each state for one purpose at a time.
| Best for | CaliforniaCA | New MexicoNM |
|---|---|---|
| Largest citypopulation | Los Angeles3,857,263 people | Albuquerque562,218 people |
| Highest composite scorecomposite score | Palo Altoscore 70.9 | Los Alamosscore 75.8 |
| Safest cityviolent crime per 100,000 | Yorba Linda47 violent per 100K | Sunland Park280 violent per 100K |
| Cheapest citycost of living index | Mercedcost index 98.3 | Roswellcost index 85.9 |
| Most walkableEPA walkability index, 1 to 20 | Santa Monicawalkability 16.3 of 20 | Albuquerquewalkability 13 of 20 |
| Cleanest airmedian air quality index, county | Santa Rosacounty median AQI 9 | Los Alamoscounty median AQI 13 |
| Best schoolsgraduation rate, % | San Ramon98% graduation rate | Los Alamos93% graduation rate |
| Richest citymedian household income | Cupertinomedian income $234,707 | Los Alamosmedian income $141,018 |
| Fastest growingpopulation growth, % | Folsom+4.1% 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 California and New Mexico compare on everything else?
State finances, environment, and getting around. California carries AA- credit rating and New Mexico AA.
Show fiscal, environment and commuting tables
| Measure | CaliforniaCA | New MexicoNM | GapCA−NM | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renewable share of electricityGap -1 pts · US 29.34% | 52%#12 of 50 | 53%#10 of 50 | -1 pts | 29.34% | NM |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap +28.9 (+105%) · US 29.6 | 56.3#48 of 50 | 27.4#26 of 50 | +28.9+105% | 29.6 | NM |
| Public land shareGap +11.1 pts · US 17.16% | 45.8%#7 of 50 | 34.7%#10 of 50 | +11.1 pts | 17.16% | CA |
| Mean travel time to workGap +5.7 min · US 25.2 min | 29.7 min#46 of 50 | 24 min#19 of 50 | +5.7 min | 25.2 min | NM |
| Commuters using public transitGap +2.8 pts · US 2.29% | 3.3%#10 of 50 | 0.5%#43 of 50 | +2.8 pts | 2.29% | CA |
| Workers working from homeGap +3.8 pts · US 12.28% | 14.1%#16 of 50 | 10.3%#35 of 50 | +3.8 pts | 12.28% | CA |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +4.5 pts · US 92.67% | 95%#4 of 50 | 90.5%#46 of 50 | +4.5 pts | 92.67% | CA |
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 | CaliforniaCA | New MexicoNM | GapCA−NM | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap -5 pts · US 92.7 | 85#45 of 50 | 90#41 of 50 | -5 pts | 92.7 | NM |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -14.2 pts · US 12.39% | 8.3%#35 of 50 | 22.5%#4 of 50 | -14.2 pts | 12.39% | NM |
| Pension funded ratioGap +4 pts · US 74.3% | 72%#32 of 50 | 68%#36 of 50 | +4 pts | 74.3% | CA |
| State debt per capitaGap +$1,130 (+37%) · US $3,506 | $4,180#39 of 50 | $3,050#28 of 50 | +$1,130+37% | $3,506 | NM |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -12.7 pts · US +4.66% | -3.2%#50 of 50 | +9.5%#2 of 50 | -12.7 pts | +4.66% | NM |
Credit rating index (S&P / Moody's; California 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).
California 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. California is ahead on 17 of 50, New Mexico on 28, and 5 are even.
Show all 54 metrics
| Measure | CaliforniaCA | New MexicoNM | GapCA−NM | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PopulationGap +37,229,811 (+1,752%) · US 6.8 million | 39.4 million#1 of 50 | 2.1 million#36 of 50 | +37,229,811+1,752% | 6.8 million | CA |
| Median household incomeGap +$32,333 (+48%) · US $80,903 | $100,149#5 of 50 | $67,816#43 of 50 | +$32,333+48% | $80,903 | CA |
| Unemployment rateGap +1.3 pts · US 3.95% | 5.5%#50 of 50 | 4.2%#32 of 50 | +1.3 pts | 3.95% | NM |
| Population growthGap +0.04 pts · US +0.51% | -0.02%#46 of 50 | -0.06%#47 of 50 | +0.04 pts | +0.51% | Even |
| GDP per capitaGap +$35,536 (+67%) · US $64,333 | $88,370#4 of 50 | $52,834#43 of 50 | +$35,536+67% | $64,333 | CA |
| Real GDP growthGap +1.6 pts · US +1.91% | +2.8%#10 of 50 | +1.2%#44 of 50 | +1.6 pts | +1.91% | CA |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -189 (-30%) · US 328 | 433#44 of 50 | 622#49 of 50 | -189-30% | 328 | CA |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -447 (-20%) · US 1,535 | 1,792#40 of 50 | 2,240#50 of 50 | -447-20% | 1,535 | CA |
| High school graduation rateGap +10.4 pts · US 85.62% | 87%#23 of 50 | 76.6%#50 of 50 | +10.4 pts | 85.62% | CA |
| NAEP math score, grade 4Gap +9 · US 237 | 233#43 of 50 | 224#50 of 50 | +9 | 237 | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap +13 · US 273 | 269#36 of 50 | 256#50 of 50 | +13 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 4Gap +11 · US 214 | 212#40 of 50 | 201#50 of 50 | +11 | 214 | CA |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap +9 · US 257 | 254#38 of 50 | 245#50 of 50 | +9 | 257 | Even |
| Life expectancyGap +4.8 yrs · US 76.9 | 79.3#7 of 50 | 74.5#42 of 50 | +4.8 yrs | 76.9 | CA |
| Adults with obesityGap -5.4 pts · US 34.03% | 29.1%#6 of 50 | 34.5%#28 of 50 | -5.4 pts | 34.03% | CA |
| Residents without health insuranceGap -4.2 pts · US 7.6% | 5.9%#16 of 50 | 10.1%#42 of 50 | -4.2 pts | 7.6% | CA |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$445,917 (+140%) · US $368,697 | $764,158#49 of 50 | $318,241#20 of 50 | +$445,917+140% | $368,697 | NM |
| Home value change, one yearGap -1.3 pts · US +1.2% | +0.4%#39 of 50 | +1.7%#30 of 50 | -1.3 pts | +1.2% | NM |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$1,442 (+96%) · US $1,948 | $2,941#47 of 50 | $1,499#13 of 50 | +$1,442+96% | $1,948 | NM |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$113,764 (+136%) · US $100,006 | $197,262#49 of 50 | $83,498#18 of 50 | +$113,764+136% | $100,006 | NM |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +18.5 pts (+20%) · US 100 | 110.7#50 of 50 | 92.2#15 of 50 | +18.5 pts+20% | 100 | NM |
| Home value to income ratioGap +2.9x (+62%) · US 4.6x | 7.6x#49 of 50 | 4.7x#31 of 50 | +2.9x+62% | 4.6x | NM |
| Residential electricity priceGap +17.46¢ (+116%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 32.54¢/kWh#49 of 50 | 15.08¢/kWh#22 of 50 | +17.46¢+116% | 17.84¢/kWh | NM |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$12.18 (+124%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $22.01/Mcf#47 of 50 | $9.83/Mcf#4 of 50 | +$12.18+124% | $15.83/Mcf | NM |
| Gasoline priceGap +$1.40 (+46%) · US $3.32/gal | $4.42/gal#48 of 50 | $3.02/gal#8 of 50 | +$1.40+46% | $3.32/gal | NM |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +10 pts (+10%) · US 100 | 106.1#46 of 50 | 96.1#17 of 50 | +10 pts+10% | 100 | NM |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap — · US $15,633 | $23,071#46 of 50 | — | — | $15,633 | Even |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +1.38 pts · US 8.74% | 11%#47 of 50 | 9.62%#39 of 50 | +1.38 pts | 8.74% | NM |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +8.5 pts · US 5.46% | 14.4%#48 of 50 | 5.9%#31 of 50 | +8.5 pts | 5.46% | NM |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap -0.03 pts · US 1.02% | 0.71%#15 of 50 | 0.74%#17 of 50 | -0.03 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +1.32 pts · US 6.66% | 8.99%#44 of 50 | 7.67%#34 of 50 | +1.32 pts | 6.66% | NM |
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap -5 pts · US 92.7 | 85#45 of 50 | 90#41 of 50 | -5 pts | 92.7 | NM |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -14.2 pts · US 12.39% | 8.3%#35 of 50 | 22.5%#4 of 50 | -14.2 pts | 12.39% | NM |
| Pension funded ratioGap +4 pts · US 74.3% | 72%#32 of 50 | 68%#36 of 50 | +4 pts | 74.3% | CA |
| State debt per capitaGap +$1,130 (+37%) · US $3,506 | $4,180#39 of 50 | $3,050#28 of 50 | +$1,130+37% | $3,506 | NM |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -12.7 pts · US +4.66% | -3.2%#50 of 50 | +9.5%#2 of 50 | -12.7 pts | +4.66% | NM |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +8 pts (+20%) · US 38.8 | 48#50 of 50 | 40#28 of 50 | +8 pts+20% | 38.8 | NM |
| Renewable share of electricityGap -1 pts · US 29.34% | 52%#12 of 50 | 53%#10 of 50 | -1 pts | 29.34% | NM |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap +28.9 (+105%) · US 29.6 | 56.3#48 of 50 | 27.4#26 of 50 | +28.9+105% | 29.6 | NM |
| Public land shareGap +11.1 pts · US 17.16% | 45.8%#7 of 50 | 34.7%#10 of 50 | +11.1 pts | 17.16% | CA |
| Mean travel time to workGap +5.7 min · US 25.2 min | 29.7 min#46 of 50 | 24 min#19 of 50 | +5.7 min | 25.2 min | NM |
| Commuters using public transitGap +2.8 pts · US 2.29% | 3.3%#10 of 50 | 0.5%#43 of 50 | +2.8 pts | 2.29% | CA |
| Workers working from homeGap +3.8 pts · US 12.28% | 14.1%#16 of 50 | 10.3%#35 of 50 | +3.8 pts | 12.28% | CA |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +4.5 pts · US 92.67% | 95%#4 of 50 | 90.5%#46 of 50 | +4.5 pts | 92.67% | CA |
| Households moving inIRSGap +222,291 (+727%) · US 78,682 | 252,863#3 of 50 | 30,572#36 of 50 | +222,291+727% | 78,682 | CA |
| Households moving outIRSGap +322,475 (+1,048%) · US 78,715 | 353,260#50 of 50 | 30,785#15 of 50 | +322,475+1,048% | 78,715 | NM |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -100,184 · US -33 | -100,397#50 of 50 | -213#30 of 50 | -100,184 | -33 | NM |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -2.5 · US +0.4 | -2.6#49 of 50 | -0.1#30 of 50 | -2.5 | +0.4 | NM |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$29,421 (+45%) · US $77,690 | $95,523#5 of 50 | $66,102#37 of 50 | +$29,421+45% | $77,690 | CA |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$33,450 (+49%) · US $77,024 | $102,120#6 of 50 | $68,670#34 of 50 | +$33,450+49% | $77,024 | CA |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -4.7 · US +1.1 | -5.8#47 of 50 | -1.1#38 of 50 | -4.7 | +1.1 | NM |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$55,537 · US -$11,758 | -$59,997#48 of 50 | -$4,460#16 of 50 | -$55,537 | -$11,758 | NM |
| Left after costs, single adultearning $75K a yearGap -$21,863 · US +$31,418 | +$12,129#49 of 50 | +$33,992#20 of 50 | -$21,863 | +$31,418 | NM |
| Left after costs, retiree coupleearning $75K a yearGap -$24,756 · US +$35,970 | +$14,276#49 of 50 | +$39,032#18 of 50 | -$24,756 | +$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 California and New Mexico numbers say when read together.
California ranks higher overall
California leads 6 of the 11 categories to New Mexico's 5, with 0 even; New Mexico is ahead on affordability and environment. Across all 50 measures with data on both sides, California is ahead on 17 and New Mexico on 28.
New Mexico is cheaper day to day
New Mexico's cost of living index is 92.2 against 110.7 in California (US = 100). The typical home costs $764,158 in California and $318,241 in New Mexico. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$59,997 a year after typical costs in California and -$4,460 in New Mexico.
New Mexico takes a smaller share in taxes
California collects 11% of income in state and local taxes (high income tax, high sales tax, with property tax in the middle of the pack); New Mexico collects 9.62% (middle of the pack on income, property and sales taxes).
California pays more and is safer
Median household income is $100,149 in California and $67,816 in New Mexico, with unemployment at 5.5% and 4.2%. Violent crime runs 433 per 100,000 residents in California and 622 in New Mexico.
People move to New Mexico on net
8,699 people moved to New Mexico from California in the latest Census release, against 2,695 going the other way.
New Mexico is the better fit for retirees
For families, California ranks #48 of 50 and New Mexico #50; for retirees, California ranks #49 and New Mexico #42.
California vs New Mexico: frequently asked questions
Is California or New Mexico better to live in?
California ranks #47 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 110.7), has a 1.4-point lower tax burden, and has a 30% higher violent crime rate. California scores higher overall, leading 6 of 11 categories to 5.
Is California cheaper than New Mexico?
New Mexico is cheaper than California: cost of living index 92.2 vs 110.7 (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 would have -$59,997 left after typical housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes in California, and -$4,460 in New Mexico. The typical home value is $764,158 in California and $318,241 in New Mexico.
Which has lower taxes, California or New Mexico?
New Mexico has the lower tax burden: 9.62% of income in state and local taxes vs 11% in California. California's top income tax rate is 14.4%, its effective property tax rate 0.71% and its combined sales tax 8.99%; New Mexico's are 5.9%, 0.74% and 7.67%.
Is California safer than New Mexico?
California is safer: 433 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 622 in New Mexico, per the FBI. California ranks #44 of 50 for violent crime and New Mexico #49. Property crime is 1,792 per 100,000 in California and 2,240 in New Mexico. The safest tracked cities are Yorba Linda, CA, and Sunland Park, NM.
Are homes more expensive in California or New Mexico?
Homes are 140% more expensive in California: the typical home value is $764,158 in California and $318,241 in New Mexico. Buying the typical home takes about $197,262 of household income in California and $83,498 in New Mexico, against median incomes of $100,149 and $67,816.
Do people earn more in California or New Mexico?
California pays more: median household income is $100,149 vs $67,816 in New Mexico, per the Census Bureau. Unemployment is 5.5% in California and 4.2% in New Mexico. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, California's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 20 after adjusting for local costs and New Mexico's in 0.
Are more people moving from California to New Mexico or from New Mexico to California?
3,262 households moved from California to New Mexico and 2,364 moved from New Mexico to California in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 898 households for New Mexico. Movers to New Mexico reported an average income of $76,801; movers to California reported $67,574. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 8,699 people (±2,726) moving from California to New Mexico and 2,695 (±1,031) the other way, a net gain of about 6,004 people for New Mexico beyond the margin of error.
Which is better for retirees, California or New Mexico?
New Mexico is the better fit for retirees: #42 of 50 on the retiree index vs #49 for California. California has high income tax, high sales tax, with property tax in the middle of the pack; New Mexico has middle of the pack on income, property and sales taxes. A retiree couple on $75,000 would have +$14,276 left after typical costs in California and +$39,032 in New Mexico.
Which is better for families, California or New Mexico?
California and New Mexico are close for families: #48 and #50 of 50 on the families index. High school graduation rates are 87% and 76.6%. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$59,997 after typical costs in California and -$4,460 in New Mexico.
Is New Mexico better than California?
No: California ranks higher than New Mexico overall, #47 of 50 vs #49, with a composite score of 40.2 to 30.6. California leads 6 of 11 categories and New Mexico leads 5, including affordability and environment. 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 California vs New Mexico.
Why this pair is featured: major moving corridor (3,262 households moved in the busier direction in the latest IRS release).