Chimayo, NM vs Ruidoso, NM

Chimayo, NM and Ruidoso, NM have a very similar cost of living, with only a 4.1% difference in their overall index. Chimayo scores 76 while Ruidoso scores 79 on the cost of living index, where 100 represents the national average. The day-to-day expenses for residents in both cities are comparable, though differences emerge when looking at specific categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Chimayo is $834/month compared to $924/month in Ruidoso — a 10% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Chimayo is more affordable at $214,000 median vs $229,100.

Median household income in Chimayo is $52,305 compared to $50,259 in Ruidoso (+4.1%). Chimayo offers a double advantage: higher earnings combined with a lower cost of living, giving residents significantly more purchasing power. Looking at affordability, residents of Chimayo spend roughly 19.1% of their income on rent, less than the 22.1% in Ruidoso.