Retire in New Mexico: 2026 Tax & Cost of Living Guide

2022 reform exempts SS for most middle-income retirees. Low property tax and generous capital gains deduction partially offset moderate income tax.

State income tax

Progressive — top rate 5.90%

Social Security

Taxed

Estate tax

None

Property tax

0.55%

How New Mexico Taxes Retirement Income

Social Security
Exempt for AGI under $100K single / $150K joint (2022 reform)
Public pensions (state/federal)
Taxed
Private pensions
Taxed
401(k) / IRA withdrawals
Taxed

Exemption / exclusion

$8,000 retirement exclusion age 65+

What Would You Pay in State Income Tax?

Rough estimates at the top marginal rate (actual effective rate will be lower for most retirees due to brackets, exemptions, and standard deduction):

Annual Retirement IncomeEstimated State TaxEffective Rate
$50,000$2,9505.9%
$100,000$5,9005.9%
$200,000$11,8005.9%

Capital Gains in New Mexico

40% of long-term capital gains can be deducted

We don't have detailed cost-of-living data for a city in New Mexico yet. See our city guides for 300+ other cities worldwide, or compare New Mexico against other US states below.

States With No Income Tax

Compare Against Other States

All 50 US States + DC

Ranked by tax-friendliness for retirees. Grouped by income-tax type.

Retirement Methodology Calculators

How much do the big names actually say you need? See each guru's assumed return and withdrawal rate, side by side with academic defaults.

Tax rates and programs are subject to change. Data is current for 2024–2025. Always consult a qualified tax professional before making relocation decisions.