San Rafael, NM vs Santa Cruz, NM

There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. Santa Cruz is 22.9% cheaper than San Rafael. With a cost index of 67 vs 82, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from Santa Cruz to San Rafael should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.

When it comes to buying, median home values in San Rafael are $120,300 compared to $209,400 in Santa Cruz, a 43% gap.

Median household income in San Rafael is $65,966 compared to $34,750 in Santa Cruz (+89.8%). While San Rafael is more expensive, its higher salaries more than compensate — residents there may actually end up with more disposable income.