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Overall Rating: 87/100 · 150,000 veterans (9.4% of population)
Reviewed 2026. Programs and exemptions verified against New Mexico veterans-affairs and tax-authority sources.
Benefit details verified January 2025. Tax exemptions, caps, and eligibility change and can vary by county — always confirm current figures with your county assessor and your New Mexico Department of Veterans Affairs before you rely on them.
$30,000 exempt from state income tax
0.8% average effective rate
Full exemption (100%); proportional 10–99%
100% (incl. temporary/IU, no P&T needed): full exemption. New for 2026: 10–99% ratings exempt a % of home value equal to the rating. Plus a flat $10,000 vet exemption.
Source ↗No veteran-specific exemptions (5.125% state)
$90,000
VA Medical Center
1501 San Pedro Drive SE, Albuquerque, NM 87108
(505) 265-1711
24/7 emergency, surgery, mental health, PTSD, women's health
Tuition waiver
Veterans qualify for reduced tuition at state schools
4-year value: $22,000
Median Home
$300,000
1BR Rent
$950/mo
COL Index
94
Unemployment
4.2%
Major employers: Kirtland Air Force Base, Sandia Labs, UNM, Presbyterian Healthcare
Pros: VA medical center, Kirtland AFB, full property tax exemption for 100%, affordable housing
Cons: Higher crime rates, moderate income tax on retirement over $30K
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Buying a home
$0 down, no PMI. Funding fee waived for service-connected veterans.
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Honorably discharged veterans (and current National Guard members) receive 5 points added to their final passing score on state screening exams; veterans with a VA service-connected disability receive 10 points.
Official source ↗New Mexico resident veterans rated 100% service-connected disabled by the VA receive a free lifetime fishing, small game hunting, and deer hunting card; veterans rated below 100% may buy a $10 game hunting and fishing license.
Official source ↗Since July 1, 2025 (HB 161), New Mexico resident veterans can obtain a free lifetime pass (rearview-mirror hang-tag) providing free day-use and camping access at all New Mexico State Parks.
Official source ↗New Mexico offers a veteran designation on driver's licenses and ID cards for eligible veterans; apply through the Motor Vehicle Division with proof of honorable service.
Official source ↗Veterans with proof of a 50% or greater service-connected disability may register up to two vehicles (including motorcycles) with a Disabled Veteran plate at no fee, including no registration fee; apply by mail to the MVD Vehicle Services Bureau in Santa Fe.
Official source ↗A state veterans home in Truth or Consequences open to honorably discharged veterans and their spouses; New Mexico residency is not required but residents receive admission preference, and fees apply.
Official source ↗The unremarried surviving spouse of an eligible honorably discharged veteran may claim the $4,000 (taxable-value) veteran property tax exemption; the 100% disabled veteran full property tax waiver also passes to the unremarried surviving spouse.
Official source ↗Sourced from official state agencies; programs and eligibility change — confirm with your New Mexico Department of Veterans Affairs before applying.