Business & Finance New Mexico (NM) Rank #29 of 50

Economist Salary in New Mexico

The median economist salary in New Mexico is $105,964 per year, which is 7% below the national median of $113,940.

Median Salary
$105,964
vs National
$-7,976
State Rank
#29 of 50
Cost of Living
93%

Economist Salary Overview in New Mexico (2026)

New Mexico ranks #29 out of 50 states for economist compensation. Economist salaries in New Mexico are below the national median, though the lower cost of living can offset the difference. At $105,964 per year, economists in New Mexico earn $7,976 less than the national median of $113,940.

A key advantage of working in New Mexico is its below-average cost of living (93% of the national index). This means the $105,964 salary has the purchasing power of roughly $113,940 in an average-cost area.

The salary spread in New Mexico is significant: economists at the 10th percentile earn $57,660, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $184,140 — a $126,480 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in New Mexico for this role is Santa Fe, where the median reaches $125,334.

Nationally, economist employment is projected to grow 6% over the next decade (faster than average). This steady growth indicates stable demand for economists across the country.

Economist Salary in New Mexico by Experience

In New Mexico, an entry-level economist earns around $60,450, while experienced professionals earn up to $172,050 per year. The cost of living index in New Mexico is 93% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$60,450
$-4,550 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$106,950
$-8,050 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$172,050
$-12,950 vs national

You May Qualify for Premium Rewards

Professionals earning $105,964+ often qualify for premium rewards cards with $500+ signup bonuses and 2–5% cashback on every purchase.

View Offers You Qualify For →

Salary Percentiles in New Mexico

Percentile NM Salary
10th Percentile $57,660
25th Percentile $76,260
Median (50th) $105,964
75th Percentile $144,150
90th Percentile $184,140

Economist Salary by City in New Mexico

The largest employment areas for economists in New Mexico include Albuquerque, Las Cruces, Rio Rancho, and Santa Fe. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.

How to Become a Economist in New Mexico

Education

Most economist positions require a master's degree. New Mexico has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.

Key Skills

EconometricsStatistical AnalysisR/PythonEconomic ModelingResearch MethodsPolicy Analysis

Job Outlook in New Mexico

Nationally, economist employment is projected to grow 6% over the next decade (faster than average). New Mexico's demand may vary based on local industry trends.

Negotiate Your Way to Senior Pay

Data shows Economists who negotiate earn 7–15% more. A single negotiation could add $66,086 over your career trajectory.

Get Negotiation Scripts — $197 →

Open to Economist Roles in New Mexico?

Get matched with recruiters hiring economists in New Mexico at competitive salaries.

Or browse positions directly:

Frequently Asked Questions: Economist Salary in New Mexico

How much does a Economist make in New Mexico? ▼
The median economist salary in New Mexico is $105,964 per year, which is 7% below the national median of $113,940. Salaries range from $57,660 (10th percentile) to $184,140 (90th percentile).
How much does a Economist make per hour in New Mexico? ▼
Based on the median annual salary of $105,964, a economist in New Mexico earns approximately $51 per hour assuming a standard 2,080-hour work year.
Is New Mexico a good state for economists? ▼
New Mexico ranks #29 out of 50 states for economist pay. The cost of living index is 93% of the national average. Entry-level economists earn $60,450, while senior professionals earn $172,050.
How does New Mexico compare to other states for economist salary? ▼
The highest paying state for economists is Hawaii at $193,698. New Mexico's median of $105,964 ranks #29 nationally. Nearby-ranked states include North Carolina ($108,243) and Idaho ($107,104).
What is the entry-level economist salary in New Mexico? ▼
An entry-level economist in New Mexico earns approximately $60,450 per year. With 3-7 years of experience, pay increases to around $106,950. Senior-level professionals with 8+ years earn up to $172,050.
What city in New Mexico pays economists the most? ▼
Santa Fe is the highest paying city in New Mexico for economists, with a median salary of $125,334. Other cities include Albuquerque and Las Cruces.