Moving from Santa Fe to Anchorage (2026)

Anchorage has a COL index of 100 vs 99 for Santa Fe (100 = US average). Expect to pay about 1% more for the same lifestyle.

Pay ~$302 more/mo
on core expenses · $75K salary baseline

Key differences

COL index
99100
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$1,550$1,800
per month
State tax
4.9%None
income tax
Take-home at $75K
$4,434$4,741
per month

Salary needed in Anchorage to match your Santa Fe lifestyle

Based on the 1% cost of living increase between the two cities.

Your salary in Santa FeEquivalent in Anchorage
$40K$40,404
$50K$50,505
$60K$60,606
$75K$75,758
$80K$80,808
$100K$101,010
$120K$121,212
$150K$151,515

Monthly budget at $75K — Santa Fe vs Anchorage

ExpenseSanta FeAnchorage
Monthly take-home$4,434$4,741
1BR rent$1,550$1,800
Groceries$376$391
Transport$40$45
Utilities$158$165
Internet$65$90
Left after essentials$2,245$2,250

Frequently asked questions

Is Anchorage cheaper than Santa Fe?

No. Anchorage has a cost of living index of 100 vs 99 for Santa Fe (100 = US average). That's about 1% more expensive.

How much will I save moving from Santa Fe to Anchorage?

On a $75K salary, core expenses in Anchorage run about $302/month more than Santa Fe. Factor this into your salary negotiation when relocating.

What salary do I need in Anchorage to match my Santa Fe lifestyle?

To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Santa Fe, you'd need roughly $75,758/year in Anchorage. This is based on the overall COL index difference between the two cities.

Estimates based on Q1 2026 COL index and market data. Budget uses simplified federal/state tax rates at $75K. Zillow · BLS · Numbeo · For general guidance only