Arroyo Seco, NM vs Raton, NM

The cost of living difference between Arroyo Seco, NM and Raton, NM is dramatic. Raton is 89.8% cheaper than Arroyo Seco, a gap that translates to thousands of dollars per year in household expenses. Arroyo Seco has a cost index of 126 while Raton sits at 67, making this one of the more striking comparisons on our site. Relocating between these cities would require a serious reassessment of budget and lifestyle expectations.

On the housing front, median rent in Arroyo Seco is $1,687/month compared to $734/month in Raton — a 130% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Raton is more affordable at $148,200 median vs $525,500.

Median household income in Arroyo Seco is $69,917 compared to $52,007 in Raton (+34.4%). Arroyo Seco does offer higher incomes, but the salary premium barely offsets the higher cost of living, leaving residents with a tighter budget. Looking at affordability, residents of Arroyo Seco spend roughly 29% of their income on rent, more than the 16.9% in Raton.