If you’re considering moving to Santa Fe, understanding the true cost of living is key to making a confident decision. Santa Fe offers exceptional quality of life—clean air, rich culture, and breathtaking scenery—but homebuyers should know how everyday expenses compare to other markets. Let’s break down what you’ll need to budget for in Santa Fe City and Santa Fe County.
🏡 Housing: The Biggest Factor
Housing is Santa Fe’s largest cost driver, especially for buyers relocating from other states.
- Median home price (2025): Around $680,000 (Santa Fe MLS).
- Typical price per square foot: ~$410.
- Property tax rate: ~0.55% (well below California’s 0.75–1.1%).
- Home insurance: Slightly higher than average due to fire risk in rural areas.
👉 Santa Fe MLS Market Reports | Realtor.com Research
Tip: If you’re relocating from California, you may find Santa Fe homes comparatively affordable—even in luxury areas like Las Campanas or Tesuque.
💡 Utilities & Essentials
Santa Fe’s moderate climate means lower energy bills than in extreme hot or cold regions.
| Expense Type | Average Monthly Cost | Notes |
| Electricity | $100–$130 | Varies by home size & A/C use |
| Water/Sewer | $50–$75 | Slightly higher in city limits |
| Natural Gas | $60–$90 | Winters bring moderate heating costs |
| Internet | $65–$85 | Multiple high-speed providers |
| Trash/Recycling | HOA or $30–$50 | Included in many neighborhoods like Rancho Viejo |
🍎 Groceries & Dining
Food costs are about 3–5% higher than the national average but similar to other regional hubs like Boulder or Austin.
- Farmers markets and local produce are plentiful.
- Dining out ranges from casual local cafes to Michelin-recognized fine dining.
- Expect to pay $18–$25 for a mid-range lunch entrée, $80+ for fine dining for two.
🚗 Transportation
Santa Fe is compact, but you’ll still rely on a car for most errands.
- Gas prices: Typically $0.20–$0.30 below California averages.
- Car insurance: Moderate, averaging ~$1,400/year.
- Commutes: Usually 10–20 minutes anywhere in town.
For frequent flyers, Albuquerque International Sunport (1 hour away) offers major flight options.
🩺 Healthcare
Santa Fe’s healthcare system is well-rated and surprisingly affordable for a smaller metro.
- Major providers: Christus St. Vincent Regional Medical Center and Presbyterian Santa Fe Medical Center.
- Health insurance premiums trend 5–10% below national average.
- Specialist access is improving as the city attracts more medical professionals.
🏖️ Lifestyle & Leisure
Santa Fe’s cultural and outdoor lifestyle is one of its biggest draws—and much of it is free or low-cost.
- Outdoor recreation: Abundant hiking, biking, and skiing nearby.
- Arts & culture: Dozens of free museum days, local festivals, and public performances.
- Community events: Indian Market, International Folk Art Market, and summer music series add value to life here.
💰 Overall Cost of Living Index (2025 Estimate)
| Category | Santa Fe | U.S. Average | California |
| Housing | 142 | 100 | 195 |
| Utilities | 97 | 100 | 110 |
| Groceries | 105 | 100 | 113 |
| Healthcare | 92 | 100 | 108 |
| Transportation | 98 | 100 | 120 |
| Overall Index | 112 | 100 | 151 |
👉 Source: BestPlaces.net, Numbeo, and local MLS data
FAQ
Q: Is Santa Fe more expensive than Albuquerque?
A: Yes, primarily due to housing. Other living expenses—utilities, groceries, healthcare—are similar or slightly higher.
Q: Can I live comfortably on a remote-work salary from California or Texas?
A: In most cases, yes. Many remote professionals find they can maintain or improve their standard of living in Santa Fe.
Q: Are there affordable neighborhoods for first-time buyers?
A: Yes—Rancho Viejo, Nava Ade, and Tierra Contenta offer more approachable pricing compared to luxury areas like Las Campanas or Eastside.
Conclusion
While Santa Fe’s cost of living is above average, the trade-offs—clean air, cultural depth, and a slower pace of life—make it worth every penny for many buyers. The key is knowing what to expect and planning your budget wisely.
📞 Contact Adrienne DeGuere, Realtor® for an in-depth cost-of-living consultation and customized relocation guide. Whether you’re buying your first home or seeking a lifestyle upgrade, I’ll help you make the move to Santa Fe confidently and smoothly.
