Texas vs New Mexico: Which Is Better to Live In?
Texas ranks #32 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 97.1), carries a 1.8-point higher tax burden, and has a 45% higher violent crime rate. Texas scores higher overall, leading 5 of 11 categories to 3.
- Violent crime rate is 45% lower in Texas (345 vs. 622 in New Mexico).
- Property crime rate is 20% lower in Texas (1,786 vs. 2,240 in New Mexico).
- Total tax burden is 19% lower in Texas (7.77% vs. 9.62% in New Mexico).
| Measure | TexasTX | New MexicoNM | GapTX−NM | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall scorecomposite of 100, rank of 50Gap +21.6 pts | 52.2#32 of 50 · C+ | 30.6#49 of 50 · F | +21.6 pts | — | TX |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +4.9 pts (+5%) · US 100 | 97.1#27 of 50 | 92.2#15 of 50 | +4.9 pts+5% | 100 | NM |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap +$4,316 · US -$11,758 | -$144#9 of 50 | -$4,460#16 of 50 | +$4,316 | -$11,758 | TX |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$18,874 (-6%) · US $368,697 | $299,367#18 of 50 | $318,241#20 of 50 | -$18,874-6% | $368,697 | TX |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -1.85 pts · US 8.74% | 7.77%#11 of 50 | 9.62%#39 of 50 | -1.85 pts | 8.74% | TX |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -277 (-45%) · US 328 | 345#31 of 50 | 622#49 of 50 | -277-45% | 328 | TX |
| Median household incomeGap +$11,905 (+18%) · US $80,903 | $79,721#24 of 50 | $67,816#43 of 50 | +$11,905+18% | $80,903 | TX |
| High school graduation rateGap +13.1 pts · US 85.62% | 89.7%#8 of 50 | 76.6%#50 of 50 | +13.1 pts | 85.62% | TX |
| Life expectancyGap +2.6 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.1#27 of 50 | 74.5#42 of 50 | +2.6 yrs | 76.9 | TX |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +56,686 · US -33 | +56,473#1 of 50 | -213#30 of 50 | +56,686 | -33 | TX |
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 Texas or New Mexico better to live in?
Texas scores higher overall: 52.2 to 30.6 out of 100, #32 of 50 against #49. Texas leads 5 of 11 categories, New Mexico leads 3, and 3 are within 3 points.
| Category | Weight | TexasTX | New MexicoNM | Gap | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy15% of scoregap +10.3 | 15% | 42.5#32 · C+ | 32.2#41 · C | +10.3 pts | TX |
| Safety12% of scoregap +28.9 | 12% | 61.8#35 · C | 32.9#49 · F | +28.9 pts | TX |
| Health12% of scoregap +1.5 | 12% | 37.7#41 · C | 36.2#42 · C | +1.5 pts | Even |
| Education12% of scoregap +54.1 | 12% | 60.7#24 · B | 6.6#50 · F | +54.1 pts | TX |
| Affordability10% of scoregap -6.6 | 10% | 74.4#20 · B | 81.0#13 · B+ | -6.6 pts | NM |
| Fiscal Health8% of scoregap +10.2 | 8% | 72.2#5 · A+ | 62.0#21 · B | +10.2 pts | TX |
| Growth7% of scoregap +28.5 | 7% | 51.7#9 · A | 23.2#43 · D | +28.5 pts | TX |
| Transportation7% of scoregap +0.8 | 7% | 43.7#38 · C | 42.9#42 · C | +0.8 pts | Even |
| Livability7% of scoregap +0.7 | 7% | 23.6#43 · D | 22.9#44 · D | +0.7 pts | Even |
| Outdoor Access6% of scoregap -39.6 | 6% | 4.7#50 · F | 44.3#10 · A | -39.6 pts | NM |
| Environment4% of scoregap -10 | 4% | 40.8#25 · B | 50.8#13 · B+ | -10 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 Texas cheaper than New Mexico?
New Mexico is cheaper: cost of living index 92.2 vs 97.1 in Texas (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 keeps $4,316 more a year in Texas after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes.
| Measure | TexasTX | New MexicoNM | GapTX−NM | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +4.9 pts (+5%) · US 100 | 97.1#27 of 50 | 92.2#15 of 50 | +4.9 pts+5% | 100 | NM |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +2 pts (+2%) · US 100 | 98.1#34 of 50 | 96.1#17 of 50 | +2 pts+2% | 100 | NM |
| Residential electricity priceGap +0.39¢ (+3%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 15.47¢/kWh#28 of 50 | 15.08¢/kWh#22 of 50 | +0.39¢+3% | 17.84¢/kWh | Even |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$9.59 (+98%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $19.42/Mcf#44 of 50 | $9.83/Mcf#4 of 50 | +$9.59+98% | $15.83/Mcf | NM |
| Gasoline priceGap -$0.14 (-5%) · US $3.32/gal | $2.88/gal#1 of 50 | $3.02/gal#8 of 50 | -$0.14-5% | $3.32/gal | TX |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap — · US $15,633 | $10,894#8 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 | TexasTX | New MexicoNM | GapTX−NM | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Adultearning $75,000Gap +$1,549 | +$35,541costs $39,459 | +$33,992costs $41,009 | +$1,549 | TX |
| Couple, No Kidsearning $75,000Gap +$414 | +$26,994costs $48,006 | +$26,580costs $48,421 | +$414 | Even |
| Family of 4earning $75,000Gap +$4,316 | -$144costs $75,145 | -$4,460costs $79,461 | +$4,316 | TX |
| Retiree Coupleearning $75,000Gap +$474 | +$39,506costs $35,494 | +$39,032costs $35,968 | +$474 | Even |
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 | TexasTX | New MexicoNM | GapTX−NM | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HousingGap +$1,380 | $23,045 | $21,665 | +$1,380 | NM |
| ChildcareGap -$4,580 | $21,788 | $26,368 | -$4,580 | TX |
| UtilitiesGap +$235 | $4,661 | $4,426 | +$235 | Even |
| GroceriesGap +$225 | $11,049 | $10,824 | +$225 | Even |
| TransportationGap -$440 | $9,051 | $9,491 | -$440 | Even |
| State and local taxesGap -$1,136 | $5,551 | $6,687 | -$1,136 | TX |
Annual cost lines for a family of four (two adults, two children). Lower is ahead.
Which has lower taxes, Texas or New Mexico?
Texas collects a smaller share of income in state and local taxes: 7.77% vs 9.62%. Texas has no income tax, high property tax, with sales tax in the middle of the pack; New Mexico has middle of the pack on income, property and sales taxes.
| Measure | TexasTX | New MexicoNM | GapTX−NM | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -1.85 pts · US 8.74% | 7.77%#11 of 50 | 9.62%#39 of 50 | -1.85 pts | 8.74% | TX |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap -5.9 pts · US 5.46% | none#7 of 50 | 5.9%#31 of 50 | -5.9 pts | 5.46% | TX |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +0.89 pts · US 1.02% | 1.63%#44 of 50 | 0.74%#17 of 50 | +0.89 pts | 1.02% | NM |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +0.53 pts · US 6.66% | 8.2%#37 of 50 | 7.67%#34 of 50 | +0.53 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 Texas or New Mexico?
Homes cost 6% more in New Mexico: a typical home value of $299,367 in Texas vs $318,241 in New Mexico. Buying the typical home takes about $88,061 of income in Texas and $83,498 in New Mexico; the median household earns $79,721 and $67,816.
| Measure | TexasTX | New MexicoNM | GapTX−NM | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$18,874 (-6%) · US $368,697 | $299,367#18 of 50 | $318,241#20 of 50 | -$18,874-6% | $368,697 | TX |
| Home value change, one yearGap -3.3 pts · US +1.2% | -1.6%#49 of 50 | +1.7%#30 of 50 | -3.3 pts | +1.2% | NM |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$160 (+11%) · US $1,948 | $1,659#23 of 50 | $1,499#13 of 50 | +$160+11% | $1,948 | NM |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$4,563 (+5%) · US $100,006 | $88,061#21 of 50 | $83,498#18 of 50 | +$4,563+5% | $100,006 | NM |
| Home value to income ratioGap -0.9x (-19%) · US 4.6x | 3.8x#18 of 50 | 4.7x#31 of 50 | -0.9x-19% | 4.6x | TX |
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.
| TX | NM | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly payment, 20% down | $1,540 | $1,637 |
| Income needed vs. median | +11% | +23% |
| Five-year change | +11.1% | +25.9% |
| Market temperature | Cool | Cool |
| Largest metro | Dallas | 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 Texas or New Mexico?
Texas pays more: median household income $79,721 vs $67,816, with unemployment at 4.2% in Texas and 4.2% in New Mexico. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Texas's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 20 after adjusting for local costs and New Mexico's in 0.
| Measure | TexasTX | New MexicoNM | GapTX−NM | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median household incomeGap +$11,905 (+18%) · US $80,903 | $79,721#24 of 50 | $67,816#43 of 50 | +$11,905+18% | $80,903 | TX |
| Unemployment rateGap 0 pts · US 3.95% | 4.2%#30 of 50 | 4.2%#32 of 50 | 0 pts | 3.95% | Even |
| GDP per capitaGap +$15,986 (+30%) · US $64,333 | $68,820#14 of 50 | $52,834#43 of 50 | +$15,986+30% | $64,333 | TX |
| Real GDP growthGap +2.6 pts · US +1.91% | +3.8%#2 of 50 | +1.2%#44 of 50 | +2.6 pts | +1.91% | TX |
| Population growthGap +1.31 pts · US +0.51% | +1.25%#4 of 50 | -0.06%#47 of 50 | +1.31 pts | +0.51% | TX |
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 | TX | NM | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|
| Family Medicine Physicians | $254,682$247,042 in Dallas | $221,963$199,767 in Albuquerque | TX |
| Software Developers | $162,398$157,526 in Austin | $130,234$117,211 in Albuquerque | TX |
| General & Operations Managers | $116,809$113,305 in Houston | $95,643$86,079 in Albuquerque | TX |
| Lawyers | $166,195$161,209 in Austin | $146,343$131,709 in Albuquerque | TX |
| Accountants & Auditors | $91,851$89,095 in Houston | $74,453$67,008 in Albuquerque | TX |
| Registered Nurses | $97,479$94,555 in Austin | $81,004$72,904 in Albuquerque | TX |
| Civil Engineers | $111,191$107,855 in Houston | $95,573$86,016 in Albuquerque | TX |
| Heavy & Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers | $67,574$65,547 in Houston | $53,622$48,260 in Albuquerque | TX |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $114,573$111,136 in Austin | $100,766$90,689 in Albuquerque | TX |
| Dietitians & Nutritionists | $79,535$77,149 in Houston | $68,356$61,520 in Albuquerque | TX |
| Sales Representatives (Wholesale/Manufacturing) | $75,335$73,075 in Austin | $64,547$58,092 in Albuquerque | TX |
| Secondary School Teachers | $75,412$73,150 in Austin | $66,213$59,592 in Albuquerque | TX |
| Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) | $63,209$61,313 in Austin | $54,143$48,729 in Albuquerque | TX |
| Electricians | $70,287$68,178 in Austin | $61,299$55,169 in Albuquerque | TX |
| HVAC Mechanics & Installers | $64,425$62,492 in Austin | $55,882$50,294 in Albuquerque | TX |
| Police & Sheriff's Patrol Officers | $82,647$80,168 in Houston | $74,208$66,787 in Albuquerque | TX |
| Mental Health Counselors | $58,474$56,720 in Houston | $51,043$45,939 in Albuquerque | TX |
| Welders, Cutters & Brazers | $54,440$52,807 in Houston | $47,934$43,141 in Albuquerque | TX |
| Construction Laborers | $48,596$47,138 in Dallas | $42,704$38,434 in Albuquerque | TX |
| Cooks, Restaurant | $37,618$36,489 in Austin | $33,062$29,756 in Albuquerque | TX |
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 Texas safer than New Mexico?
Texas is safer: 345 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 622 in New Mexico (FBI). Property crime runs 1,786 and 2,240 per 100,000.
| Measure | TexasTX | New MexicoNM | GapTX−NM | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -277 (-45%) · US 328 | 345#31 of 50 | 622#49 of 50 | -277-45% | 328 | TX |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -454 (-20%) · US 1,535 | 1,786#39 of 50 | 2,240#50 of 50 | -454-20% | 1,535 | TX |
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.
- Flower Mound, TX42 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, Texas or New Mexico?
Texas scores higher for education (#24 of 50 vs #50), with high school graduation rates of 89.7% and 76.6%. They are close on health (#41 and #42); life expectancy is 77.1 years in Texas and 74.5 in New Mexico.
| Measure | TexasTX | New MexicoNM | GapTX−NM | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap +13 · US 273 | 269#34 of 50 | 256#50 of 50 | +13 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap +7 · US 257 | 252#44 of 50 | 245#50 of 50 | +7 | 257 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap +13.1 pts · US 85.62% | 89.7%#8 of 50 | 76.6%#50 of 50 | +13.1 pts | 85.62% | TX |
| Life expectancyGap +2.6 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.1#27 of 50 | 74.5#42 of 50 | +2.6 yrs | 76.9 | TX |
| Adults with obesityGap +1.1 pts · US 34.03% | 35.6%#32 of 50 | 34.5%#28 of 50 | +1.1 pts | 34.03% | NM |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +6.6 pts · US 7.6% | 16.7%#50 of 50 | 10.1%#42 of 50 | +6.6 pts | 7.6% | NM |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +3 pts (+8%) · US 38.8 | 43#40 of 50 | 40#28 of 50 | +3 pts+8% | 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).
- No city school data
- 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: Texas #24, New Mexico #50. Health: Texas #41, New Mexico #42.
Are more people moving from Texas to New Mexico, or from New Mexico to Texas?
7,197 households moved from Texas to New Mexico and 7,469 moved from New Mexico to Texas in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 272 households for Texas. Movers to New Mexico reported an average income of $62,650; movers to Texas reported $68,353. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 13,543 people (±3,249) moving from Texas to New Mexico and 12,504 (±2,684) 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 | TexasTX | New MexicoNM | GapTX−NM | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Households moving inIRSGap +276,668 (+905%) | 307,240#2 of 50 | 30,572#36 of 50 | +276,668+905% | TX |
| Households moving outIRSGap +219,982 (+715%) | 250,767#47 of 50 | 30,785#15 of 50 | +219,982+715% | NM |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +56,686 | +56,473#1 of 50 | -213#30 of 50 | +56,686 | TX |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap +1.9 | +1.8#12 of 50 | -0.1#30 of 50 | +1.9 | TX |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$17,530 (+27%) | $83,632#14 of 50 | $66,102#37 of 50 | +$17,530+27% | TX |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$11,689 (+17%) | $80,359#15 of 50 | $68,670#34 of 50 | +$11,689+17% | TX |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap +3.2 | +2.1#19 of 50 | -1.1#38 of 50 | +3.2 | TX |
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, Texas or New Mexico?
Texas is the better fit for families, retirees, remote workers, young professionals, and small business; New Mexico is the better fit for outdoor enthusiasts. Each index re-weights the same 11 category scores for one kind of household.
| Measure | TexasTX | New MexicoNM | GapTX−NM | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FamiliesGap -15 places | #35score 57.5 | #50score 29.1 | -15 places | TX |
| RetireesGap -9 places | #33score 58.8 | #42score 52.7 | -9 places | TX |
| Remote WorkersGap -4 places | #25score 52 | #29score 50 | -4 places | TX |
| Young ProfessionalsGap -20 places | #28score 53 | #48score 34.6 | -20 places | TX |
| Small BusinessGap -32 places | #15score 64.3 | #47score 34.6 | -32 places | TX |
| Outdoor EnthusiastsGap +16 places | #45score 26.6 | #29score 42.2 | +16 places | NM |
Rank of 50 on each lifestyle index. A state is called ahead when the ranks are at least 4 places apart.
- FamiliesTexas (#35 vs #50)
- RetireesTexas (#33 vs #42)
- Remote WorkersTexas (#25 vs #29)
- Young ProfessionalsTexas (#28 vs #48)
- Small BusinessTexas (#15 vs #47)
- Outdoor EnthusiastsNew Mexico (#29 vs #45)
Which cities stand out in Texas and New Mexico?
Texas has 74 tracked cities and New Mexico has 20; the largest are Houston and Albuquerque. The table picks the best city in each state for one purpose at a time.
| Best for | TexasTX | New MexicoNM |
|---|---|---|
| Largest citypopulation | Houston2,328,253 people | Albuquerque562,218 people |
| Highest composite scorecomposite score | Flower Moundscore 67.4 | Los Alamosscore 75.8 |
| Safest cityviolent crime per 100,000 | Flower Mound42 violent per 100K | Sunland Park280 violent per 100K |
| Cheapest citycost of living index | McAllencost index 85.9 | Roswellcost index 85.9 |
| Most walkableEPA walkability index, 1 to 20 | Richardsonwalkability 13 of 20 | Albuquerquewalkability 13 of 20 |
| Cleanest airmedian air quality index, county | Amarillocounty median AQI 16 | Los Alamoscounty median AQI 13 |
| Best schoolsgraduation rate, % | — | Los Alamos93% graduation rate |
| Richest citymedian household income | Flower Moundmedian income $161,235 | Los Alamosmedian income $141,018 |
| Fastest growingpopulation growth, % | Kyle+6.1% 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 Texas and New Mexico compare on everything else?
State finances, environment, and getting around. Texas carries AAA credit rating and New Mexico AA.
Show fiscal, environment and commuting tables
| Measure | TexasTX | New MexicoNM | GapTX−NM | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renewable share of electricityGap -16 pts · US 29.34% | 37%#15 of 50 | 53%#10 of 50 | -16 pts | 29.34% | NM |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -3.4 (-12%) · US 29.6 | 24.0#21 of 50 | 27.4#26 of 50 | -3.4-12% | 29.6 | TX |
| Public land shareGap -32.9 pts · US 17.16% | 1.8%#45 of 50 | 34.7%#10 of 50 | -32.9 pts | 17.16% | NM |
| Mean travel time to workGap +3.5 min · US 25.2 min | 27.5 min#41 of 50 | 24 min#19 of 50 | +3.5 min | 25.2 min | NM |
| Commuters using public transitGap +0.5 pts · US 2.29% | 1%#25 of 50 | 0.5%#43 of 50 | +0.5 pts | 2.29% | TX |
| Workers working from homeGap +2.6 pts · US 12.28% | 12.9%#22 of 50 | 10.3%#35 of 50 | +2.6 pts | 12.28% | TX |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +3.2 pts · US 92.67% | 93.7%#13 of 50 | 90.5%#46 of 50 | +3.2 pts | 92.67% | TX |
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 | TexasTX | New MexicoNM | GapTX−NM | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap +10 pts · US 92.7 | 100#15 of 50 | 90#41 of 50 | +10 pts | 92.7 | TX |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -4.7 pts · US 12.39% | 17.8%#6 of 50 | 22.5%#4 of 50 | -4.7 pts | 12.39% | NM |
| Pension funded ratioGap +8 pts · US 74.3% | 76%#22 of 50 | 68%#36 of 50 | +8 pts | 74.3% | TX |
| State debt per capitaGap -$1,200 (-39%) · US $3,506 | $1,850#8 of 50 | $3,050#28 of 50 | -$1,200-39% | $3,506 | TX |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -4.3 pts · US +4.66% | +5.2%#22 of 50 | +9.5%#2 of 50 | -4.3 pts | +4.66% | NM |
Credit rating index (S&P / Moody's; Texas AAA, 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).
Texas 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. Texas is ahead on 29 of 50, New Mexico on 16, and 5 are even.
Show all 54 metrics
| Measure | TexasTX | New MexicoNM | GapTX−NM | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PopulationGap +29,584,323 (+1,392%) · US 6.8 million | 31.7 million#2 of 50 | 2.1 million#36 of 50 | +29,584,323+1,392% | 6.8 million | TX |
| Median household incomeGap +$11,905 (+18%) · US $80,903 | $79,721#24 of 50 | $67,816#43 of 50 | +$11,905+18% | $80,903 | TX |
| Unemployment rateGap 0 pts · US 3.95% | 4.2%#30 of 50 | 4.2%#32 of 50 | 0 pts | 3.95% | Even |
| Population growthGap +1.31 pts · US +0.51% | +1.25%#4 of 50 | -0.06%#47 of 50 | +1.31 pts | +0.51% | TX |
| GDP per capitaGap +$15,986 (+30%) · US $64,333 | $68,820#14 of 50 | $52,834#43 of 50 | +$15,986+30% | $64,333 | TX |
| Real GDP growthGap +2.6 pts · US +1.91% | +3.8%#2 of 50 | +1.2%#44 of 50 | +2.6 pts | +1.91% | TX |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -277 (-45%) · US 328 | 345#31 of 50 | 622#49 of 50 | -277-45% | 328 | TX |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -454 (-20%) · US 1,535 | 1,786#39 of 50 | 2,240#50 of 50 | -454-20% | 1,535 | TX |
| High school graduation rateGap +13.1 pts · US 85.62% | 89.7%#8 of 50 | 76.6%#50 of 50 | +13.1 pts | 85.62% | TX |
| NAEP math score, grade 4Gap +17 · US 237 | 241#8 of 50 | 224#50 of 50 | +17 | 237 | TX |
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap +13 · US 273 | 269#34 of 50 | 256#50 of 50 | +13 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 4Gap +11 · US 214 | 212#37 of 50 | 201#50 of 50 | +11 | 214 | TX |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap +7 · US 257 | 252#44 of 50 | 245#50 of 50 | +7 | 257 | Even |
| Life expectancyGap +2.6 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.1#27 of 50 | 74.5#42 of 50 | +2.6 yrs | 76.9 | TX |
| Adults with obesityGap +1.1 pts · US 34.03% | 35.6%#32 of 50 | 34.5%#28 of 50 | +1.1 pts | 34.03% | NM |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +6.6 pts · US 7.6% | 16.7%#50 of 50 | 10.1%#42 of 50 | +6.6 pts | 7.6% | NM |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$18,874 (-6%) · US $368,697 | $299,367#18 of 50 | $318,241#20 of 50 | -$18,874-6% | $368,697 | TX |
| Home value change, one yearGap -3.3 pts · US +1.2% | -1.6%#49 of 50 | +1.7%#30 of 50 | -3.3 pts | +1.2% | NM |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$160 (+11%) · US $1,948 | $1,659#23 of 50 | $1,499#13 of 50 | +$160+11% | $1,948 | NM |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$4,563 (+5%) · US $100,006 | $88,061#21 of 50 | $83,498#18 of 50 | +$4,563+5% | $100,006 | NM |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +4.9 pts (+5%) · US 100 | 97.1#27 of 50 | 92.2#15 of 50 | +4.9 pts+5% | 100 | NM |
| Home value to income ratioGap -0.9x (-19%) · US 4.6x | 3.8x#18 of 50 | 4.7x#31 of 50 | -0.9x-19% | 4.6x | TX |
| Residential electricity priceGap +0.39¢ (+3%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 15.47¢/kWh#28 of 50 | 15.08¢/kWh#22 of 50 | +0.39¢+3% | 17.84¢/kWh | Even |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$9.59 (+98%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $19.42/Mcf#44 of 50 | $9.83/Mcf#4 of 50 | +$9.59+98% | $15.83/Mcf | NM |
| Gasoline priceGap -$0.14 (-5%) · US $3.32/gal | $2.88/gal#1 of 50 | $3.02/gal#8 of 50 | -$0.14-5% | $3.32/gal | TX |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +2 pts (+2%) · US 100 | 98.1#34 of 50 | 96.1#17 of 50 | +2 pts+2% | 100 | NM |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap — · US $15,633 | $10,894#8 of 50 | — | — | $15,633 | Even |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -1.85 pts · US 8.74% | 7.77%#11 of 50 | 9.62%#39 of 50 | -1.85 pts | 8.74% | TX |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap -5.9 pts · US 5.46% | none#7 of 50 | 5.9%#31 of 50 | -5.9 pts | 5.46% | TX |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +0.89 pts · US 1.02% | 1.63%#44 of 50 | 0.74%#17 of 50 | +0.89 pts | 1.02% | NM |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +0.53 pts · US 6.66% | 8.2%#37 of 50 | 7.67%#34 of 50 | +0.53 pts | 6.66% | NM |
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap +10 pts · US 92.7 | 100#15 of 50 | 90#41 of 50 | +10 pts | 92.7 | TX |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -4.7 pts · US 12.39% | 17.8%#6 of 50 | 22.5%#4 of 50 | -4.7 pts | 12.39% | NM |
| Pension funded ratioGap +8 pts · US 74.3% | 76%#22 of 50 | 68%#36 of 50 | +8 pts | 74.3% | TX |
| State debt per capitaGap -$1,200 (-39%) · US $3,506 | $1,850#8 of 50 | $3,050#28 of 50 | -$1,200-39% | $3,506 | TX |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -4.3 pts · US +4.66% | +5.2%#22 of 50 | +9.5%#2 of 50 | -4.3 pts | +4.66% | NM |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +3 pts (+8%) · US 38.8 | 43#40 of 50 | 40#28 of 50 | +3 pts+8% | 38.8 | NM |
| Renewable share of electricityGap -16 pts · US 29.34% | 37%#15 of 50 | 53%#10 of 50 | -16 pts | 29.34% | NM |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -3.4 (-12%) · US 29.6 | 24.0#21 of 50 | 27.4#26 of 50 | -3.4-12% | 29.6 | TX |
| Public land shareGap -32.9 pts · US 17.16% | 1.8%#45 of 50 | 34.7%#10 of 50 | -32.9 pts | 17.16% | NM |
| Mean travel time to workGap +3.5 min · US 25.2 min | 27.5 min#41 of 50 | 24 min#19 of 50 | +3.5 min | 25.2 min | NM |
| Commuters using public transitGap +0.5 pts · US 2.29% | 1%#25 of 50 | 0.5%#43 of 50 | +0.5 pts | 2.29% | TX |
| Workers working from homeGap +2.6 pts · US 12.28% | 12.9%#22 of 50 | 10.3%#35 of 50 | +2.6 pts | 12.28% | TX |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +3.2 pts · US 92.67% | 93.7%#13 of 50 | 90.5%#46 of 50 | +3.2 pts | 92.67% | TX |
| Households moving inIRSGap +276,668 (+905%) · US 78,682 | 307,240#2 of 50 | 30,572#36 of 50 | +276,668+905% | 78,682 | TX |
| Households moving outIRSGap +219,982 (+715%) · US 78,715 | 250,767#47 of 50 | 30,785#15 of 50 | +219,982+715% | 78,715 | NM |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +56,686 · US -33 | +56,473#1 of 50 | -213#30 of 50 | +56,686 | -33 | TX |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap +1.9 · US +0.4 | +1.8#12 of 50 | -0.1#30 of 50 | +1.9 | +0.4 | TX |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$17,530 (+27%) · US $77,690 | $83,632#14 of 50 | $66,102#37 of 50 | +$17,530+27% | $77,690 | TX |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$11,689 (+17%) · US $77,024 | $80,359#15 of 50 | $68,670#34 of 50 | +$11,689+17% | $77,024 | TX |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap +3.2 · US +1.1 | +2.1#19 of 50 | -1.1#38 of 50 | +3.2 | +1.1 | TX |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap +$4,316 · US -$11,758 | -$144#9 of 50 | -$4,460#16 of 50 | +$4,316 | -$11,758 | TX |
| Left after costs, single adultearning $75K a yearGap +$1,549 · US +$31,418 | +$35,541#13 of 50 | +$33,992#20 of 50 | +$1,549 | +$31,418 | TX |
| Left after costs, retiree coupleearning $75K a yearGap +$474 · US +$35,970 | +$39,506#15 of 50 | +$39,032#18 of 50 | +$474 | +$35,970 | Even |
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 Texas and New Mexico numbers say when read together.
Texas ranks higher overall
Texas leads 5 of the 11 categories to New Mexico's 3, with 3 even; New Mexico is ahead on outdoor access and environment. Across all 50 measures with data on both sides, Texas is ahead on 29 and New Mexico on 16.
New Mexico is cheaper day to day
New Mexico's cost of living index is 92.2 against 97.1 in Texas (US = 100). The typical home costs $299,367 in Texas and $318,241 in New Mexico. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$144 a year after typical costs in Texas and -$4,460 in New Mexico.
Texas takes a smaller share in taxes
Texas collects 7.77% of income in state and local taxes (no income tax, high property tax, with sales tax in the middle of the pack); New Mexico collects 9.62% (middle of the pack on income, property and sales taxes).
Texas pays more and is safer
Median household income is $79,721 in Texas and $67,816 in New Mexico, with unemployment at 4.2% and 4.2%. Violent crime runs 345 per 100,000 residents in Texas and 622 in New Mexico.
Moves between the two run about even
13,543 people moved from Texas to New Mexico and 12,504 the other way, a gap inside the survey's margin of error.
Texas fits families and retirees better
For families, Texas ranks #35 of 50 and New Mexico #50; for retirees, Texas ranks #33 and New Mexico #42.
Texas vs New Mexico: frequently asked questions
Is Texas or New Mexico better to live in?
Texas ranks #32 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 97.1), carries a 1.8-point higher tax burden, and has a 45% higher violent crime rate. Texas scores higher overall, leading 5 of 11 categories to 3.
Is Texas cheaper than New Mexico?
New Mexico is cheaper than Texas: cost of living index 92.2 vs 97.1 (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 would have -$144 left after typical housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes in Texas, and -$4,460 in New Mexico. The typical home value is $299,367 in Texas and $318,241 in New Mexico.
Which has lower taxes, Texas or New Mexico?
Texas has the lower tax burden: 7.77% of income in state and local taxes vs 9.62% in New Mexico. Texas's top income tax rate is zero, its effective property tax rate 1.63% and its combined sales tax 8.2%; New Mexico's are 5.9%, 0.74% and 7.67%.
Is Texas safer than New Mexico?
Texas is safer: 345 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 622 in New Mexico, per the FBI. Texas ranks #31 of 50 for violent crime and New Mexico #49. Property crime is 1,786 per 100,000 in Texas and 2,240 in New Mexico. The safest tracked cities are Flower Mound, TX, and Sunland Park, NM.
Are homes more expensive in Texas or New Mexico?
Homes are 6% more expensive in New Mexico: the typical home value is $299,367 in Texas and $318,241 in New Mexico. Buying the typical home takes about $88,061 of household income in Texas and $83,498 in New Mexico, against median incomes of $79,721 and $67,816.
Do people earn more in Texas or New Mexico?
Texas pays more: median household income is $79,721 vs $67,816 in New Mexico, per the Census Bureau. Unemployment is 4.2% in Texas and 4.2% in New Mexico. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Texas'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 Texas to New Mexico or from New Mexico to Texas?
7,197 households moved from Texas to New Mexico and 7,469 moved from New Mexico to Texas in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 272 households for Texas. Movers to New Mexico reported an average income of $62,650; movers to Texas reported $68,353. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 13,543 people (±3,249) moving from Texas to New Mexico and 12,504 (±2,684) the other way, a gap inside the margin of error, so the flows are roughly balanced.
Which is better for retirees, Texas or New Mexico?
Texas is the better fit for retirees: #33 of 50 on the retiree index vs #42 for New Mexico. Texas has no income tax, high property tax, with sales 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 +$39,506 left after typical costs in Texas and +$39,032 in New Mexico.
Which is better for families, Texas or New Mexico?
Texas is the better fit for families: #35 of 50 on the families index vs #50 for New Mexico. High school graduation rates are 89.7% and 76.6%. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$144 after typical costs in Texas and -$4,460 in New Mexico.
Is New Mexico better than Texas?
No: Texas ranks higher than New Mexico overall, #32 of 50 vs #49, with a composite score of 52.2 to 30.6. Texas leads 5 of 11 categories and New Mexico leads 3, including outdoor access 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 Texas vs New Mexico.
Why this pair is featured: bordering states, major moving corridor (7,469 households moved in the busier direction in the latest IRS release).