Factors affecting the cost of moving from MA to NMtoggle

There are many factors that influence Massachusetts moving costs. The cost to move from Massachusetts to New Mexico will depend on these factors:

  • Move size: Moving a large home costs more than moving a studio apartment.
  • Time of year: The peak moving season in Massachusetts is in the summer, so moving companies will likely charge more.
  • DIY vs. professional mover: DIY moving services are cheaper but you do all the heavy lifting compared to letting the pros handle your move.

What to know before moving from MA to NM

If you’re moving to New Mexico from Massachusetts, you’ll want to compare what life will be like.

Cost of living: Massachusetts vs. New Mexico

Massachusetts New Mexico
Average rent cost $1,588 $966
Average home cost $623,131 $303,910
Average income (per capita) $96,505 $58,722
Cost of Living Index 100 94
Unemployment rate 3.9% 2.9%
Average Sales Tax 6.25% 7.61%
State Income Tax 9.0% 5.9%
  • Rent is about 39% less expensive in New Mexico than in Massachusetts.
  • Home prices are about 51% lower in New Mexico than in Massachusetts.
  • The average income is about 39% lower in New Mexico than in Massachusetts.
  • Cost of living is 6% lower in New Mexico than in Massachusetts.
  • New Mexico has a lower unemployment rate than Massachusetts by about 26%.
  • Sales taxes are 22% higher in New Mexico than in Massachusetts.
  • Income taxes are 34% lower in New Mexico than in Massachusetts.

How life is different in New Mexico vs. Massachusetts

New Mexico Massachusetts
Population 2,113,344 7,001,399
Political leaning Democratic 51.9-45.9 Democratic 61.5-36.3
Summer high 88ºF 82ºF
Winter low 20ºF 16ºF
Annual rain 15" 49"
Annual snow 24" 47"
Crime index 38.81 13.92
  • The population of New Mexico is approximately 70% lower than the population of Massachusetts.
  • In the last presidential election, New Mexico voted Democratic and Massachusetts voted Democratic.
  • The average high in the summertime in New Mexico is 88ºF and in Massachusetts, it’s 82ºF.
  • During the coldest part of the year, New Mexico reaches the temperature of 20ºF and Massachusetts gets down to 16ºF.
  • You can expect about 15 inches of annual rainfall in New Mexico versus 49 inches of rainfall in Massachusetts.
  • In New Mexico, it snows about 24 inches annually versus 47 inches of snow in Massachusetts.
  • New Mexico has a higher crime rate than Massachusetts with a crime index of 38.81 vs. 13.92.

Comparing the pros of Massachusetts vs. New Mexico

Getting a fresh start in a new location is exciting. Here’s a side-by-side look at the perks of living in New Mexico compared to Massachusetts.

Pros of living in Massachusetts Pros of living in New Mexico
Natural beauty Beautiful landscapes
Excellent education system Rich culture
Delicious seafood Delicious food and wine
Bountiful recreational opportunities Low cost of living
Home to Boston Abundant outdoor activities

Comparing the cons of living in Massachusetts vs. New Mexico

Everything can’t be sunshine and rainbows all the time, no matter where you live. Here are some things to be aware of when leaving Massachusetts for New Mexico.

Cons of living in Massachusetts Cons of living in New Mexico
Bad traffic Bad roads
Poor driving conditions Lackluster economy
Harsh winter weather Scarce job opportunity
High cost of living Slow life
Peculiar liquor laws High crime rate

Other things to consider for your Massachusetts to New Mexico movetoggle

  • Weather: New Mexico has long been reputable for its pleasant, temperate climate. The eastern third of the state receives the most rainfall while the western third receives the least amount. New Mexico's stable climate and sparse population provide for clearer skies and less light pollution.
  • HOA rules: Check ahead with any neighborhood or community rules on moving to ensure a smooth move.
  • Elevator reservation: One common and important example of something that should be handled ahead of time is reserving the building's elevator and finding out their rules for using the elevator.
  • Parking permits: Some cities require parking permits for large vehicles, find out ahead of time with your new local rules.
  • State licensing: Movers that operate within the Land of Enchantment are licensed and regulated by the New Mexico Public Regulation Commission. Make sure the moving company you use has a license before hiring.
  • State regulator: You can verify a New Mexico moving license and its status on the state regulator's official website.
  • Moving permits: New Mexico does not require any moving permits, but it is helpful to check local parking restrictions before moving into the state.
  • Change of address: We recommend submitting your change of address form with USPS at least a week prior to your move. You can set an official move date on the form so that all your mail will get properly forwarded to New Mexico. Get started here.
  • Mover's insurance: Interstate moving companies are required under federal law to provide basic insurance — also called “released value protection” — free of charge to all moving customers. Opt for Released Value Protection, the cost-free, minimal coverage option from movers. They're responsible for a maximum of 60 cents per pound per article. For comprehensive coverage, discuss alternatives with your moving company or consider a third-party insurance provider.
  • Moving checklist: Peace of mind is priceless. Our moving checklist will help you know you’ve got everything covered.

Things to do in New Mexicotoggle

While you’re in New Mexico, you won’t be bored. These are some of the coolest places to visit in your new home state:

  • 1: White Sands National Park
  • 2: Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta
  • 3: Bandelier National Monument
  • 4: Georgia O'Keeffe Museum
  • 5: Carlsbad Caverns National Park
  • 6: Chaco Culture National Historical Park
  • 7: New Mexico Museum of Natural History & Science
  • 8: Cumbres-Toltec Scenic Railway
  • 9: Loretto Chapel
  • 10: Sandia Peak Ski & Tramway
  • 11: Petroglyph National Monument
  • 12: Taos Pueblo
  • 13: Santa Rosa Blue Hole
  • 14: Pecos National Historical Park
  • 15: Very Large Array
  • 16: Billy the Kid Museum
  • 17: Wheeler Peak Wilderness
  • 18: International UFO Museum and Research Center
  • 19: ABQ BioPark Botanic Garden
  • 20: Four Corners Monument
  • 21: Cliff’s Amusement Park
  • 22: Ghost Ranch
  • 23: The National Museum of Nuclear Science & History
  • 24: Meow Wolf
  • 25: Wildlife West Nature Park

FAQs

What is the cheapest way to move from Massachusetts to New Mexico?toggle

Hiring a full-service Massachusetts moving company will be on the more expensive side, while a rental truck or a moving container is usually the cheaper way to go, but requires more work. Here’s our guide for the cheapest way to move out of state.

Do movers transport your car from Massachusetts to New Mexico?toggle

Some full-service movers can coordinate auto transport for you as part of your relocation package for an additional fee. But you can also handle vehicle transport from Massachusetts to New Mexico separately through one of the top car shipping companies.

What are the benefits of moving from Massachusetts to New Mexico?toggle

The main reasons people are moving from Massachusetts to New Mexico are the amazing upsides of living in New Mexico such as beautiful landscapes and rich culture.

Is it cheaper to live in Massachusetts or New Mexico?toggle

It is generally cheaper to live in New Mexico than in Massachusetts. Housing is much more affordable in New Mexico, with average rent about 39% less and home prices 51.2% lower than in Massachusetts. Taxes are also lower in New Mexico, most notably income taxes, which are more than 30% less than those paid by Massachusetts residents.

How much should you make a year to live comfortably in New Mexico?toggle

You should make approximately $58,340 as a single adult with no children to live comfortably in New Mexico. The cost of living in New Mexico is approximately $2,435 per month for an individual and $5,557 for a family of four. The exact amount you’ll need to live comfortably may be more or less depending on where in New Mexico you live For example, larger cities like Albuquerque and Las Cruces will have higher housing costs than those in smaller towns.

Helpful moving resources