Belen, NM vs Clayton, NM

There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. Clayton is 18.7% cheaper than Belen. With a cost index of 61 vs 72, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from Clayton to Belen should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Belen is $877/month compared to $637/month in Clayton — a 38% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Clayton is more affordable at $111,500 median vs $154,600.

Median household income in Belen is $40,354 compared to $40,192 in Clayton (+0.4%). Belen 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 Belen spend roughly 26.1% of their income on rent, more than the 19% in Clayton.