Military Retirement in New Mexico: Complete 2026 Tax Guide
100% military retirement pay exemption
Quick Summary: New Mexico Military Retirement Taxes (2026)
- ✓ Military retirement pay: 100% EXEMPT from state tax
- ✓ VA disability payments: Tax-free (federal and state)
- ✓ Survivor Benefit Plan (SBP): Also 100% exempt
- ✓ Property tax: Exemptions for veterans
- ✓ Overall ranking: Excellent for military retirees
Why New Mexico Is Great for Military Retirement
New Mexico provides a 100% exemption on military retirement pay (enacted in 2022), making it one of the most tax-friendly states for veterans. Combined with affordable housing, beautiful desert landscapes, and a rich military heritage, New Mexico offers an attractive retirement destination.
The Land of Enchantment hosts several major military installations including Kirtland AFB, Holloman AFB, Cannon AFB, and White Sands Missile Range. Over 160,000 veterans call New Mexico home.
2026 New Mexico Military Retirement Tax Breakdown
State Income Tax on Military Retirement Pay
100% Exempt!
New Mexico exempts 100% of military retirement pay from state income tax. This includes all types of military retirement (regular, reserve, disability retirement) from all branches of service. The exemption was fully implemented in 2022.
VA Disability Compensation
✓ Completely Tax-Free
VA disability payments are tax-exempt at both the federal and New Mexico state levels.
Other Tax Benefits for New Mexico Veterans (2026)
| Benefit | Details |
|---|---|
| Property Tax Exemption |
|
| Sales Tax | 5.125% state gross receipts tax + local (total 7-8%). Groceries taxed. |
| Vehicle Registration | Disabled veterans may qualify for reduced registration fees. |
| Hunting/Fishing | Reduced-cost licenses for disabled veterans. |
Real Example: How Much You'll Save in New Mexico (2026)
Example Scenario: E-7 Retired After 20 Years
- • Military retirement pay: $2,800/month ($33,600/year)
- • VA disability (70%): $1,916/month ($22,992/year)
- • Part-time civilian job: $25,000/year
New Mexico (100% Exempt)
Military retirement: $0 state tax
Only civilian income taxed
State tax: ~$1,100
California (9.3% Bracket)
Most income taxed
State tax: ~$3,500
Annual New Mexico Savings: $2,400+
Cost of Living in New Mexico (2026)
| Category | vs. National Average | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | -15% cheaper | Median: $280,000 Albuquerque, $200,000 Las Cruces |
| Groceries | Average | Major chains available, commissaries at bases |
| Healthcare | -8% cheaper | VA medical centers in Albuquerque, multiple clinics |
| Utilities | -10% cheaper | Dry climate = lower AC costs, natural gas heating |
Major Military Installations in New Mexico
✈️ Kirtland Air Force Base
- Located in Albuquerque
- Air Force Nuclear Weapons Center
- Sandia National Laboratories nearby
- Largest employer in New Mexico
✈️ Holloman Air Force Base
- Located in Alamogordo
- F-16 and MQ-9 training
- 49th Wing
- Beautiful mountain scenery
✈️ Cannon Air Force Base
- Located in Clovis
- Air Force Special Operations Command
- 27th Special Operations Wing
🚀 White Sands Missile Range
- Largest military installation in US
- Army missile testing
- Historic site (first atomic test)
Best Cities in New Mexico for Military Retirees (2026)
| City | Nearby Base | Median Home | Why It's Great |
|---|---|---|---|
| Albuquerque | Kirtland AFB | $280,000 | Largest city, VA hospital, university town, cultural hub |
| Rio Rancho | Kirtland AFB | $320,000 | Growing suburb, newer homes, family-friendly |
| Las Cruces | WSMR/Holloman | $250,000 | University town, affordable, warm climate |
| Alamogordo | Holloman AFB | $180,000 | Very affordable, mountain views, small-town feel |
| Santa Fe | Los Alamos | $550,000 | State capital, arts/culture, historic, higher cost |
VA Healthcare in New Mexico
- New Mexico VA Health Care System (Albuquerque) - Full-service medical center
- Community-Based Outpatient Clinics - Las Cruces, Santa Fe, Farmington, Gallup, and more
- Vet Centers - Albuquerque, Santa Fe, Farmington
- Military Treatment Facilities - Base hospitals at Kirtland and Holloman
Education Benefits for Veterans & Families in New Mexico
New Mexico provides education benefits including the Vietnam Veterans Scholarship, tuition waivers for children of disabled veterans, and in-state tuition for all veterans.
New Mexico Vietnam Veterans Scholarship
Full Tuition Coverage
Vietnam veterans who were New Mexico residents at time of entry may receive full tuition and required fees at New Mexico public colleges.
Children of Deceased/Disabled Veterans
Tuition Waiver Program
- Children of veterans killed in action or 100% disabled
- Covers tuition at New Mexico public colleges
- Veteran must have been NM resident
In-State Tuition for Veterans
All veterans using GI Bill benefits qualify for immediate in-state tuition at New Mexico public colleges.
| Institution | In-State | Out-of-State | Savings |
|---|---|---|---|
| University of New Mexico | ~$8,500 | ~$24,000 | $15,500/yr |
| New Mexico State University | ~$8,000 | ~$24,000 | $16,000/yr |
Official Resources: New Mexico Dept of Veterans Services
Pros and Cons of Retiring in New Mexico
✅ Pros
- • 100% military retirement tax exemption
- • Affordable housing
- • Multiple Air Force bases
- • Sunny climate (300+ days)
- • Beautiful scenery (mountains, desert)
- • Rich cultural heritage
- • Lower utility costs (dry climate)
- • Education benefits for dependents
⚠️ Cons
- • Higher gross receipts tax (sales tax)
- • Limited job market in some areas
- • Remote locations for some bases
- • Hot summers in lower elevations
- • Some rural areas lack services
- • Higher crime in some urban areas
Frequently Asked Questions
Does New Mexico tax military retirement pay?
No. New Mexico provides a 100% exemption for military retirement pay. Your entire pension is tax-free at the state level.
Does New Mexico tax VA disability?
No. VA disability compensation is tax-free at both federal and state levels.
What military bases are in New Mexico?
Major installations include Kirtland AFB (Albuquerque), Holloman AFB (Alamogordo), Cannon AFB (Clovis), and White Sands Missile Range.
Calculate Your New Mexico Retirement Income
See exactly what civilian salary you need with 100% tax-exempt military retirement
Use the Free Calculator →Bottom Line for New Mexico Military Retirement
New Mexico offers 100% military retirement tax exemption, affordable housing, beautiful desert and mountain scenery, and multiple Air Force bases. The sunny climate (300+ days) and rich cultural heritage make it an attractive option for military retirees seeking tax savings and quality of life.