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Cost of Living in Taos County

Is it better to rent or buy in Taos County? Explore median costs, utility estimates, and run the numbers on your own budget to see how far your income goes.

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Rent vs. Buy Affordability Calculator

Adjust the sliders to match your scenario. We recommend keeping total housing costs under 40% of your gross income.

$60,476
$1,021/mo

Median in area: $1,021

$385,498

Median in area: $385,498

$77,100

If you Rent

🔑
$1,200 /mo
Base Rent$1,021
Est. Utilities$179
% of Income23.8%
Pre-tax Residual$3,840

If you Buy

🏠
$2,414 /mo
P&I (6.942%)$2,040
Taxes & Ins$195
Est. Utilities$179
% of Income47.9%
Pre-tax Residual$2,626

Compare Nearby Areas

See how Taos County stacks up against neighboring areas.

countyConejos County, CO
$746/mo
countyMora County, NM
$913/mo
countyCostilla County, CO
$894/mo
countyColfax County, NM
$689/mo
countyRio Arriba County, NM
$783/mo

Cost of Living FAQs

Is it cheaper to rent or buy in Taos County?›

Based on median housing data, renting is currently more affordable on a monthly basis in Taos County. The estimated all-in monthly cost for renting is $1,200, while owning a median-priced home with a 20% down payment is roughly $2,414 per month (a difference of $1,214).

How much do utilities cost in Taos County?›

The average monthly utility cost (electricity and natural gas) for a typical home in Taos County is approximately $179. This estimate uses local utility rate schedules combined with median energy consumption profiles.

What is a good salary to live comfortably in Taos County?›

To comfortably afford the median rent and utilities in Taos County without exceeding the recommended 30% housing-to-income threshold, a household should earn a gross salary of approximately $48,000 per year.