Nevada vs New Mexico: Which Is Better to Live In?
Nevada ranks #40 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), carries a 1-point higher tax burden, and has a 39% higher violent crime rate. Nevada scores higher overall, leading 6 of 11 categories to 5.
- Violent crime rate is 39% lower in Nevada (379 vs. 622 in New Mexico).
- Typical home value is 28% lower in New Mexico ($318,241 vs. $442,027 in Nevada).
- Median household income is 20% higher in Nevada ($81,134 vs. $67,816 in New Mexico).
| Measure | NevadaNV | New MexicoNM | GapNV−NM | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall scorecomposite of 100, rank of 50Gap +15.2 pts | 45.8#40 of 50 · C | 30.6#49 of 50 · F | +15.2 pts | — | NV |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +7.8 pts (+8%) · US 100 | 100#34 of 50 | 92.2#15 of 50 | +7.8 pts+8% | 100 | NM |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$14,574 · US -$11,758 | -$19,034#28 of 50 | -$4,460#16 of 50 | -$14,574 | -$11,758 | NM |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$123,786 (+39%) · US $368,697 | $442,027#36 of 50 | $318,241#20 of 50 | +$123,786+39% | $368,697 | NM |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -1 pts · US 8.74% | 8.62%#24 of 50 | 9.62%#39 of 50 | -1 pts | 8.74% | NV |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -242 (-39%) · US 328 | 379#37 of 50 | 622#49 of 50 | -242-39% | 328 | NV |
| Median household incomeGap +$13,318 (+20%) · US $80,903 | $81,134#22 of 50 | $67,816#43 of 50 | +$13,318+20% | $80,903 | NV |
| High school graduation rateGap +5.1 pts · US 85.62% | 81.7%#43 of 50 | 76.6%#50 of 50 | +5.1 pts | 85.62% | NV |
| Life expectancyGap +1.9 yrs · US 76.9 | 76.4#34 of 50 | 74.5#42 of 50 | +1.9 yrs | 76.9 | NV |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +9,190 · US -33 | +8,977#10 of 50 | -213#30 of 50 | +9,190 | -33 | NV |
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 Nevada or New Mexico better to live in?
Nevada scores higher overall: 45.8 to 30.6 out of 100, #40 of 50 against #49. Nevada leads 6 of 11 categories, New Mexico leads 5, and 0 are within 3 points.
| Category | Weight | NevadaNV | New MexicoNM | Gap | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy15% of scoregap -4.2 | 15% | 28.0#46 · D | 32.2#41 · C | -4.2 pts | NM |
| Safety12% of scoregap +23 | 12% | 55.9#42 · C | 32.9#49 · F | +23 pts | NV |
| Health12% of scoregap +8.7 | 12% | 44.9#34 · C+ | 36.2#42 · C | +8.7 pts | NV |
| Education12% of scoregap +33.7 | 12% | 40.3#45 · D | 6.6#50 · F | +33.7 pts | NV |
| Affordability10% of scoregap -19.3 | 10% | 61.7#33 · C+ | 81.0#13 · B+ | -19.3 pts | NM |
| Fiscal Health8% of scoregap -4.4 | 8% | 57.6#28 · C+ | 62.0#21 · B | -4.4 pts | NM |
| Growth7% of scoregap +18.7 | 7% | 41.9#23 · B | 23.2#43 · D | +18.7 pts | NV |
| Transportation7% of scoregap +9.5 | 7% | 52.4#21 · B | 42.9#42 · C | +9.5 pts | NV |
| Livability7% of scoregap +22.8 | 7% | 45.7#11 · B+ | 22.9#44 · D | +22.8 pts | NV |
| Outdoor Access6% of scoregap -5 | 6% | 39.3#13 · B+ | 44.3#10 · A | -5 pts | NM |
| Environment4% of scoregap -9.3 | 4% | 41.5#24 · B | 50.8#13 · B+ | -9.3 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 Nevada cheaper than New Mexico?
New Mexico is cheaper: cost of living index 92.2 vs 100 in Nevada (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 keeps $14,574 more a year in New Mexico after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes.
| Measure | NevadaNV | New MexicoNM | GapNV−NM | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +7.8 pts (+8%) · US 100 | 100#34 of 50 | 92.2#15 of 50 | +7.8 pts+8% | 100 | NM |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +0.2 pts (0%) · US 100 | 96.3#24 of 50 | 96.1#17 of 50 | +0.2 pts0% | 100 | Even |
| Residential electricity priceGap -1.93¢ (-13%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 13.15¢/kWh#10 of 50 | 15.08¢/kWh#22 of 50 | -1.93¢-13% | 17.84¢/kWh | NV |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$3.31 (+34%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $13.14/Mcf#18 of 50 | $9.83/Mcf#4 of 50 | +$3.31+34% | $15.83/Mcf | NM |
| Gasoline priceGap +$0.94 (+31%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.96/gal#45 of 50 | $3.02/gal#8 of 50 | +$0.94+31% | $3.32/gal | NM |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap — · US $15,633 | $15,633#28 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 | NevadaNV | New MexicoNM | GapNV−NM | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Adultearning $75,000Gap -$3,798 | +$30,194costs $44,806 | +$33,992costs $41,009 | -$3,798 | NM |
| Couple, No Kidsearning $75,000Gap -$7,192 | +$19,388costs $55,612 | +$26,580costs $48,421 | -$7,192 | NM |
| Family of 4earning $75,000Gap -$14,574 | -$19,034costs $94,034 | -$4,460costs $79,461 | -$14,574 | NM |
| Retiree Coupleearning $75,000Gap -$5,742 | +$33,290costs $41,710 | +$39,032costs $35,968 | -$5,742 | 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 | NevadaNV | New MexicoNM | GapNV−NM | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HousingGap +$7,367 | $29,032 | $21,665 | +$7,367 | NM |
| ChildcareGap +$4,898 | $31,266 | $26,368 | +$4,898 | NM |
| UtilitiesGap +$374 | $4,800 | $4,426 | +$374 | Even |
| GroceriesGap +$22 | $10,846 | $10,824 | +$22 | Even |
| TransportationGap +$2,955 | $12,446 | $9,491 | +$2,955 | NM |
| State and local taxesGap -$1,043 | $5,644 | $6,687 | -$1,043 | NV |
Annual cost lines for a family of four (two adults, two children). Lower is ahead.
Which has lower taxes, Nevada or New Mexico?
Nevada collects a smaller share of income in state and local taxes: 8.62% vs 9.62%. Nevada has no income tax, low property tax, high sales tax; New Mexico has middle of the pack on income, property and sales taxes.
| Measure | NevadaNV | New MexicoNM | GapNV−NM | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -1 pts · US 8.74% | 8.62%#24 of 50 | 9.62%#39 of 50 | -1 pts | 8.74% | NV |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap -5.9 pts · US 5.46% | none#8 of 50 | 5.9%#31 of 50 | -5.9 pts | 5.46% | NV |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap -0.24 pts · US 1.02% | 0.5%#4 of 50 | 0.74%#17 of 50 | -0.24 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +0.57 pts · US 6.66% | 8.24%#38 of 50 | 7.67%#34 of 50 | +0.57 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 Nevada or New Mexico?
Homes cost 39% more in Nevada: a typical home value of $442,027 in Nevada vs $318,241 in New Mexico. Buying the typical home takes about $110,080 of income in Nevada and $83,498 in New Mexico; the median household earns $81,134 and $67,816.
| Measure | NevadaNV | New MexicoNM | GapNV−NM | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$123,786 (+39%) · US $368,697 | $442,027#36 of 50 | $318,241#20 of 50 | +$123,786+39% | $368,697 | NM |
| Home value change, one yearGap -3.5 pts · US +1.2% | -1.8%#50 of 50 | +1.7%#30 of 50 | -3.5 pts | +1.2% | NM |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$243 (+16%) · US $1,948 | $1,742#26 of 50 | $1,499#13 of 50 | +$243+16% | $1,948 | NM |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$26,582 (+32%) · US $100,006 | $110,080#33 of 50 | $83,498#18 of 50 | +$26,582+32% | $100,006 | NM |
| Home value to income ratioGap +0.7x (+15%) · US 4.6x | 5.4x#38 of 50 | 4.7x#31 of 50 | +0.7x+15% | 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.
| NV | NM | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly payment, 20% down | $2,274 | $1,637 |
| Income needed vs. median | +36% | +23% |
| Five-year change | +15.6% | +25.9% |
| Market temperature | Cool | Cool |
| Largest metro | Las Vegas | 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 Nevada or New Mexico?
Nevada pays more: median household income $81,134 vs $67,816, with unemployment at 5.3% in Nevada and 4.2% in New Mexico. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Nevada's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 2 after adjusting for local costs and New Mexico's in 7.
| Measure | NevadaNV | New MexicoNM | GapNV−NM | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median household incomeGap +$13,318 (+20%) · US $80,903 | $81,134#22 of 50 | $67,816#43 of 50 | +$13,318+20% | $80,903 | NV |
| Unemployment rateGap +1.1 pts · US 3.95% | 5.3%#49 of 50 | 4.2%#32 of 50 | +1.1 pts | 3.95% | NM |
| GDP per capitaGap +$5,889 (+11%) · US $64,333 | $58,723#34 of 50 | $52,834#43 of 50 | +$5,889+11% | $64,333 | NV |
| Real GDP growthGap +3.8 pts · US +1.91% | +5%#1 of 50 | +1.2%#44 of 50 | +3.8 pts | +1.91% | NV |
| Population growthGap +0.94 pts · US +0.51% | +0.88%#11 of 50 | -0.06%#47 of 50 | +0.94 pts | +0.51% | NV |
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 | NV | NM | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|
| Family Medicine Physicians | $209,938$203,640 in Las Vegas | $221,963$199,767 in Albuquerque | NM |
| Lawyers | $137,613$133,485 in Las Vegas | $146,343$131,709 in Albuquerque | NM |
| Accountants & Auditors | $78,524$76,168 in Las Vegas | $74,453$67,008 in Albuquerque | NV |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $97,329$94,409 in Las Vegas | $100,766$90,689 in Albuquerque | NM |
| Sales Representatives (Wholesale/Manufacturing) | $61,171$59,336 in Las Vegas | $64,547$58,092 in Albuquerque | NM |
| Software Developers | $133,486$129,481 in Las Vegas | $130,234$117,211 in Albuquerque | Even |
| Secondary School Teachers | $63,200$61,304 in Las Vegas | $66,213$59,592 in Albuquerque | NM |
| Welders, Cutters & Brazers | $45,077$43,725 in Las Vegas | $47,934$43,141 in Albuquerque | NM |
| Civil Engineers | $97,688$94,757 in Las Vegas | $95,573$86,016 in Albuquerque | Even |
| Police & Sheriff's Patrol Officers | $76,196$73,910 in Las Vegas | $74,208$66,787 in Albuquerque | Even |
| Electricians | $59,447$57,664 in Las Vegas | $61,299$55,169 in Albuquerque | NM |
| Dietitians & Nutritionists | $69,961$67,862 in Las Vegas | $68,356$61,520 in Albuquerque | Even |
| Heavy & Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers | $52,057$50,495 in Las Vegas | $53,622$48,260 in Albuquerque | Even |
| Cooks, Restaurant | $34,427$33,394 in Las Vegas | $33,062$29,756 in Albuquerque | NV |
| Mental Health Counselors | $52,365$50,794 in Las Vegas | $51,043$45,939 in Albuquerque | Even |
| HVAC Mechanics & Installers | $57,052$55,340 in Las Vegas | $55,882$50,294 in Albuquerque | Even |
| General & Operations Managers | $96,681$93,781 in Las Vegas | $95,643$86,079 in Albuquerque | Even |
| Construction Laborers | $43,246$41,949 in Las Vegas | $42,704$38,434 in Albuquerque | Even |
| Registered Nurses | $81,389$78,947 in Las Vegas | $81,004$72,904 in Albuquerque | Even |
| Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) | $54,097$52,474 in Las Vegas | $54,143$48,729 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 Nevada safer than New Mexico?
Nevada is safer: 379 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 622 in New Mexico (FBI). Property crime runs 1,996 and 2,240 per 100,000.
| Measure | NevadaNV | New MexicoNM | GapNV−NM | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -242 (-39%) · US 328 | 379#37 of 50 | 622#49 of 50 | -242-39% | 328 | NV |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -244 (-11%) · US 1,535 | 1,996#47 of 50 | 2,240#50 of 50 | -244-11% | 1,535 | NV |
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.
- Mesquite, NV119 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, Nevada or New Mexico?
Nevada scores higher for education (#45 of 50 vs #50), with high school graduation rates of 81.7% and 76.6%. Nevada scores higher for health (#34 vs #42); life expectancy is 76.4 years in Nevada and 74.5 in New Mexico.
| Measure | NevadaNV | New MexicoNM | GapNV−NM | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap +9 · US 273 | 265#44 of 50 | 256#50 of 50 | +9 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap +8 · US 257 | 253#42 of 50 | 245#50 of 50 | +8 | 257 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap +5.1 pts · US 85.62% | 81.7%#43 of 50 | 76.6%#50 of 50 | +5.1 pts | 85.62% | NV |
| Life expectancyGap +1.9 yrs · US 76.9 | 76.4#34 of 50 | 74.5#42 of 50 | +1.9 yrs | 76.9 | NV |
| Adults with obesityGap -0.3 pts · US 34.03% | 34.2%#26 of 50 | 34.5%#28 of 50 | -0.3 pts | 34.03% | Even |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +1.3 pts · US 7.6% | 11.4%#47 of 50 | 10.1%#42 of 50 | +1.3 pts | 7.6% | NM |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +1 pts (+3%) · US 38.8 | 41#33 of 50 | 40#28 of 50 | +1 pts+3% | 38.8 | Even |
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).
- Fernley, NVeducation score 87
- 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: Nevada #45, New Mexico #50. Health: Nevada #34, New Mexico #42.
Are more people moving from Nevada to New Mexico, or from New Mexico to Nevada?
706 households moved from Nevada to New Mexico and 693 moved from New Mexico to Nevada in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 13 households for New Mexico. Movers to New Mexico reported an average income of $62,635; movers to Nevada reported $65,332. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 898 people (±544) moving from Nevada to New Mexico and 1,320 (±968) the other way, a gap inside the margin of error, so the flows are roughly balanced.
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 | NevadaNV | New MexicoNM | GapNV−NM | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Households moving inIRSGap +36,210 (+118%) | 66,782#22 of 50 | 30,572#36 of 50 | +36,210+118% | NV |
| Households moving outIRSGap +27,020 (+88%) | 57,805#27 of 50 | 30,785#15 of 50 | +27,020+88% | NM |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +9,190 | +8,977#10 of 50 | -213#30 of 50 | +9,190 | NV |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap +2.8 | +2.7#7 of 50 | -0.1#30 of 50 | +2.8 | NV |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$21,153 (+32%) | $87,255#12 of 50 | $66,102#37 of 50 | +$21,153+32% | NV |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$5,956 (+9%) | $74,626#23 of 50 | $68,670#34 of 50 | +$5,956+9% | NV |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap +5.7 | +4.6#10 of 50 | -1.1#38 of 50 | +5.7 | NV |
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, Nevada or New Mexico?
Nevada is the better fit for families, retirees, young professionals, small business, and outdoor enthusiasts; 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 | NevadaNV | New MexicoNM | GapNV−NM | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FamiliesGap -7 places | #43score 50.2 | #50score 29.1 | -7 places | NV |
| RetireesGap -7 places | #35score 56.2 | #42score 52.7 | -7 places | NV |
| Remote WorkersGap +2 places | #31score 49 | #29score 50 | +2 places | Even |
| Young ProfessionalsGap -11 places | #37score 45.7 | #48score 34.6 | -11 places | NV |
| Small BusinessGap -10 places | #37score 46.4 | #47score 34.6 | -10 places | NV |
| Outdoor EnthusiastsGap -5 places | #24score 45.4 | #29score 42.2 | -5 places | NV |
Rank of 50 on each lifestyle index. A state is called ahead when the ranks are at least 4 places apart.
- FamiliesNevada (#43 vs #50)
- RetireesNevada (#35 vs #42)
- Remote WorkersEven (#31 vs #29)
- Young ProfessionalsNevada (#37 vs #48)
- Small BusinessNevada (#37 vs #47)
- Outdoor EnthusiastsNevada (#24 vs #29)
Which cities stand out in Nevada and New Mexico?
Nevada has 20 tracked cities and New Mexico has 20; the largest are Las Vegas and Albuquerque. The table picks the best city in each state for one purpose at a time.
| Best for | NevadaNV | New MexicoNM |
|---|---|---|
| Largest citypopulation | Las Vegas660,400 people | Albuquerque562,218 people |
| Highest composite scorecomposite score | Summerlin Southscore 61.3 | Los Alamosscore 75.8 |
| Safest cityviolent crime per 100,000 | Mesquite119 violent per 100K | Sunland Park280 violent per 100K |
| Cheapest citycost of living index | Pahrumpcost index 94.8 | Roswellcost index 85.9 |
| Most walkableEPA walkability index, 1 to 20 | Spring Valleywalkability 13.7 of 20 | Albuquerquewalkability 13 of 20 |
| Cleanest airmedian air quality index, county | Pahrumpcounty median AQI 26 | Los Alamoscounty median AQI 13 |
| Best schoolsgraduation rate, % | Fernley87% graduation rate | Los Alamos93% graduation rate |
| Richest citymedian household income | Spanish Springsmedian income $127,658 | Los Alamosmedian income $141,018 |
| Fastest growingpopulation growth, % | Fernley+2.7% 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 Nevada and New Mexico compare on everything else?
State finances, environment, and getting around. Nevada carries AA credit rating and New Mexico AA.
Show fiscal, environment and commuting tables
| Measure | NevadaNV | New MexicoNM | GapNV−NM | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renewable share of electricityGap -21 pts · US 29.34% | 32%#20 of 50 | 53%#10 of 50 | -21 pts | 29.34% | NM |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -1.7 (-6%) · US 29.6 | 25.7#24 of 50 | 27.4#26 of 50 | -1.7-6% | 29.6 | NV |
| Public land shareGap +50.2 pts · US 17.16% | 84.9%#1 of 50 | 34.7%#10 of 50 | +50.2 pts | 17.16% | NV |
| Mean travel time to workGap +1.7 min · US 25.2 min | 25.7 min#26 of 50 | 24 min#19 of 50 | +1.7 min | 25.2 min | NM |
| Commuters using public transitGap +2 pts · US 2.29% | 2.5%#12 of 50 | 0.5%#43 of 50 | +2 pts | 2.29% | NV |
| Workers working from homeGap +1 pts · US 12.28% | 11.3%#32 of 50 | 10.3%#35 of 50 | +1 pts | 12.28% | NV |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +4.6 pts · US 92.67% | 95.1%#2 of 50 | 90.5%#46 of 50 | +4.6 pts | 92.67% | NV |
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 | NevadaNV | New MexicoNM | GapNV−NM | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap 0 pts · US 92.7 | 90#36 of 50 | 90#41 of 50 | 0 pts | 92.7 | Even |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -15.1 pts · US 12.39% | 7.4%#40 of 50 | 22.5%#4 of 50 | -15.1 pts | 12.39% | NM |
| Pension funded ratioGap +8 pts · US 74.3% | 76%#24 of 50 | 68%#36 of 50 | +8 pts | 74.3% | NV |
| State debt per capitaGap -$640 (-21%) · US $3,506 | $2,410#18 of 50 | $3,050#28 of 50 | -$640-21% | $3,506 | NV |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -6 pts · US +4.66% | +3.5%#35 of 50 | +9.5%#2 of 50 | -6 pts | +4.66% | NM |
Credit rating index (S&P / Moody's; Nevada 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).
Nevada 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. Nevada is ahead on 24 of 50, New Mexico on 18, and 8 are even.
Show all 54 metrics
| Measure | NevadaNV | New MexicoNM | GapNV−NM | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PopulationGap +1,156,690 (+54%) · US 6.8 million | 3.3 million#31 of 50 | 2.1 million#36 of 50 | +1,156,690+54% | 6.8 million | NV |
| Median household incomeGap +$13,318 (+20%) · US $80,903 | $81,134#22 of 50 | $67,816#43 of 50 | +$13,318+20% | $80,903 | NV |
| Unemployment rateGap +1.1 pts · US 3.95% | 5.3%#49 of 50 | 4.2%#32 of 50 | +1.1 pts | 3.95% | NM |
| Population growthGap +0.94 pts · US +0.51% | +0.88%#11 of 50 | -0.06%#47 of 50 | +0.94 pts | +0.51% | NV |
| GDP per capitaGap +$5,889 (+11%) · US $64,333 | $58,723#34 of 50 | $52,834#43 of 50 | +$5,889+11% | $64,333 | NV |
| Real GDP growthGap +3.8 pts · US +1.91% | +5%#1 of 50 | +1.2%#44 of 50 | +3.8 pts | +1.91% | NV |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -242 (-39%) · US 328 | 379#37 of 50 | 622#49 of 50 | -242-39% | 328 | NV |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -244 (-11%) · US 1,535 | 1,996#47 of 50 | 2,240#50 of 50 | -244-11% | 1,535 | NV |
| High school graduation rateGap +5.1 pts · US 85.62% | 81.7%#43 of 50 | 76.6%#50 of 50 | +5.1 pts | 85.62% | NV |
| NAEP math score, grade 4Gap +9 · US 237 | 233#41 of 50 | 224#50 of 50 | +9 | 237 | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap +9 · US 273 | 265#44 of 50 | 256#50 of 50 | +9 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 4Gap +13 · US 214 | 213#35 of 50 | 201#50 of 50 | +13 | 214 | NV |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap +8 · US 257 | 253#42 of 50 | 245#50 of 50 | +8 | 257 | Even |
| Life expectancyGap +1.9 yrs · US 76.9 | 76.4#34 of 50 | 74.5#42 of 50 | +1.9 yrs | 76.9 | NV |
| Adults with obesityGap -0.3 pts · US 34.03% | 34.2%#26 of 50 | 34.5%#28 of 50 | -0.3 pts | 34.03% | Even |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +1.3 pts · US 7.6% | 11.4%#47 of 50 | 10.1%#42 of 50 | +1.3 pts | 7.6% | NM |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$123,786 (+39%) · US $368,697 | $442,027#36 of 50 | $318,241#20 of 50 | +$123,786+39% | $368,697 | NM |
| Home value change, one yearGap -3.5 pts · US +1.2% | -1.8%#50 of 50 | +1.7%#30 of 50 | -3.5 pts | +1.2% | NM |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$243 (+16%) · US $1,948 | $1,742#26 of 50 | $1,499#13 of 50 | +$243+16% | $1,948 | NM |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$26,582 (+32%) · US $100,006 | $110,080#33 of 50 | $83,498#18 of 50 | +$26,582+32% | $100,006 | NM |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +7.8 pts (+8%) · US 100 | 100#34 of 50 | 92.2#15 of 50 | +7.8 pts+8% | 100 | NM |
| Home value to income ratioGap +0.7x (+15%) · US 4.6x | 5.4x#38 of 50 | 4.7x#31 of 50 | +0.7x+15% | 4.6x | NM |
| Residential electricity priceGap -1.93¢ (-13%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 13.15¢/kWh#10 of 50 | 15.08¢/kWh#22 of 50 | -1.93¢-13% | 17.84¢/kWh | NV |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$3.31 (+34%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $13.14/Mcf#18 of 50 | $9.83/Mcf#4 of 50 | +$3.31+34% | $15.83/Mcf | NM |
| Gasoline priceGap +$0.94 (+31%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.96/gal#45 of 50 | $3.02/gal#8 of 50 | +$0.94+31% | $3.32/gal | NM |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +0.2 pts (0%) · US 100 | 96.3#24 of 50 | 96.1#17 of 50 | +0.2 pts0% | 100 | Even |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap — · US $15,633 | $15,633#28 of 50 | — | — | $15,633 | Even |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -1 pts · US 8.74% | 8.62%#24 of 50 | 9.62%#39 of 50 | -1 pts | 8.74% | NV |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap -5.9 pts · US 5.46% | none#8 of 50 | 5.9%#31 of 50 | -5.9 pts | 5.46% | NV |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap -0.24 pts · US 1.02% | 0.5%#4 of 50 | 0.74%#17 of 50 | -0.24 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +0.57 pts · US 6.66% | 8.24%#38 of 50 | 7.67%#34 of 50 | +0.57 pts | 6.66% | NM |
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap 0 pts · US 92.7 | 90#36 of 50 | 90#41 of 50 | 0 pts | 92.7 | Even |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -15.1 pts · US 12.39% | 7.4%#40 of 50 | 22.5%#4 of 50 | -15.1 pts | 12.39% | NM |
| Pension funded ratioGap +8 pts · US 74.3% | 76%#24 of 50 | 68%#36 of 50 | +8 pts | 74.3% | NV |
| State debt per capitaGap -$640 (-21%) · US $3,506 | $2,410#18 of 50 | $3,050#28 of 50 | -$640-21% | $3,506 | NV |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -6 pts · US +4.66% | +3.5%#35 of 50 | +9.5%#2 of 50 | -6 pts | +4.66% | NM |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +1 pts (+3%) · US 38.8 | 41#33 of 50 | 40#28 of 50 | +1 pts+3% | 38.8 | Even |
| Renewable share of electricityGap -21 pts · US 29.34% | 32%#20 of 50 | 53%#10 of 50 | -21 pts | 29.34% | NM |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -1.7 (-6%) · US 29.6 | 25.7#24 of 50 | 27.4#26 of 50 | -1.7-6% | 29.6 | NV |
| Public land shareGap +50.2 pts · US 17.16% | 84.9%#1 of 50 | 34.7%#10 of 50 | +50.2 pts | 17.16% | NV |
| Mean travel time to workGap +1.7 min · US 25.2 min | 25.7 min#26 of 50 | 24 min#19 of 50 | +1.7 min | 25.2 min | NM |
| Commuters using public transitGap +2 pts · US 2.29% | 2.5%#12 of 50 | 0.5%#43 of 50 | +2 pts | 2.29% | NV |
| Workers working from homeGap +1 pts · US 12.28% | 11.3%#32 of 50 | 10.3%#35 of 50 | +1 pts | 12.28% | NV |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +4.6 pts · US 92.67% | 95.1%#2 of 50 | 90.5%#46 of 50 | +4.6 pts | 92.67% | NV |
| Households moving inIRSGap +36,210 (+118%) · US 78,682 | 66,782#22 of 50 | 30,572#36 of 50 | +36,210+118% | 78,682 | NV |
| Households moving outIRSGap +27,020 (+88%) · US 78,715 | 57,805#27 of 50 | 30,785#15 of 50 | +27,020+88% | 78,715 | NM |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +9,190 · US -33 | +8,977#10 of 50 | -213#30 of 50 | +9,190 | -33 | NV |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap +2.8 · US +0.4 | +2.7#7 of 50 | -0.1#30 of 50 | +2.8 | +0.4 | NV |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$21,153 (+32%) · US $77,690 | $87,255#12 of 50 | $66,102#37 of 50 | +$21,153+32% | $77,690 | NV |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$5,956 (+9%) · US $77,024 | $74,626#23 of 50 | $68,670#34 of 50 | +$5,956+9% | $77,024 | NV |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap +5.7 · US +1.1 | +4.6#10 of 50 | -1.1#38 of 50 | +5.7 | +1.1 | NV |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$14,574 · US -$11,758 | -$19,034#28 of 50 | -$4,460#16 of 50 | -$14,574 | -$11,758 | NM |
| Left after costs, single adultearning $75K a yearGap -$3,798 · US +$31,418 | +$30,194#28 of 50 | +$33,992#20 of 50 | -$3,798 | +$31,418 | NM |
| Left after costs, retiree coupleearning $75K a yearGap -$5,742 · US +$35,970 | +$33,290#30 of 50 | +$39,032#18 of 50 | -$5,742 | +$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 Nevada and New Mexico numbers say when read together.
Nevada ranks higher overall
Nevada 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, Nevada is ahead on 24 and New Mexico on 18.
New Mexico is cheaper day to day
New Mexico's cost of living index is 92.2 against 100 in Nevada (US = 100). The typical home costs $442,027 in Nevada and $318,241 in New Mexico. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$19,034 a year after typical costs in Nevada and -$4,460 in New Mexico.
Nevada takes a smaller share in taxes
Nevada collects 8.62% of income in state and local taxes (no income tax, low property tax, high sales tax); New Mexico collects 9.62% (middle of the pack on income, property and sales taxes).
Nevada pays more and is safer
Median household income is $81,134 in Nevada and $67,816 in New Mexico, with unemployment at 5.3% and 4.2%. Violent crime runs 379 per 100,000 residents in Nevada and 622 in New Mexico.
Moves between the two run about even
898 people moved from Nevada to New Mexico and 1,320 the other way, a gap inside the survey's margin of error.
Nevada fits families and retirees better
For families, Nevada ranks #43 of 50 and New Mexico #50; for retirees, Nevada ranks #35 and New Mexico #42.
Nevada vs New Mexico: frequently asked questions
Is Nevada or New Mexico better to live in?
Nevada ranks #40 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), carries a 1-point higher tax burden, and has a 39% higher violent crime rate. Nevada scores higher overall, leading 6 of 11 categories to 5.
Is Nevada cheaper than New Mexico?
New Mexico is cheaper than Nevada: cost of living index 92.2 vs 100 (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 would have -$19,034 left after typical housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes in Nevada, and -$4,460 in New Mexico. The typical home value is $442,027 in Nevada and $318,241 in New Mexico.
Which has lower taxes, Nevada or New Mexico?
Nevada has the lower tax burden: 8.62% of income in state and local taxes vs 9.62% in New Mexico. Nevada's top income tax rate is zero, its effective property tax rate 0.5% and its combined sales tax 8.24%; New Mexico's are 5.9%, 0.74% and 7.67%.
Is Nevada safer than New Mexico?
Nevada is safer: 379 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 622 in New Mexico, per the FBI. Nevada ranks #37 of 50 for violent crime and New Mexico #49. Property crime is 1,996 per 100,000 in Nevada and 2,240 in New Mexico. The safest tracked cities are Mesquite, NV, and Sunland Park, NM.
Are homes more expensive in Nevada or New Mexico?
Homes are 39% more expensive in Nevada: the typical home value is $442,027 in Nevada and $318,241 in New Mexico. Buying the typical home takes about $110,080 of household income in Nevada and $83,498 in New Mexico, against median incomes of $81,134 and $67,816.
Do people earn more in Nevada or New Mexico?
Nevada pays more: median household income is $81,134 vs $67,816 in New Mexico, per the Census Bureau. Unemployment is 5.3% in Nevada and 4.2% in New Mexico. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Nevada's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 2 after adjusting for local costs and New Mexico's in 7, with 11 even.
Are more people moving from Nevada to New Mexico or from New Mexico to Nevada?
706 households moved from Nevada to New Mexico and 693 moved from New Mexico to Nevada in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 13 households for New Mexico. Movers to New Mexico reported an average income of $62,635; movers to Nevada reported $65,332. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 898 people (±544) moving from Nevada to New Mexico and 1,320 (±968) the other way, a gap inside the margin of error, so the flows are roughly balanced.
Which is better for retirees, Nevada or New Mexico?
Nevada is the better fit for retirees: #35 of 50 on the retiree index vs #42 for New Mexico. Nevada has no 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 +$33,290 left after typical costs in Nevada and +$39,032 in New Mexico.
Which is better for families, Nevada or New Mexico?
Nevada is the better fit for families: #43 of 50 on the families index vs #50 for New Mexico. High school graduation rates are 81.7% and 76.6%. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$19,034 after typical costs in Nevada and -$4,460 in New Mexico.
Is New Mexico better than Nevada?
No: Nevada ranks higher than New Mexico overall, #40 of 50 vs #49, with a composite score of 45.8 to 30.6. Nevada 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.
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