Salaries in Farmington, NM
What every job actually pays — cost-of-living adjusted
Updated: February 2026 · 27 occupations · BLS + Census data
Here’s a counterintuitive truth about working in Farmington: you can make a six-figure salary and still feel like you’re winning at life. In 2026, the city’s top marketing managers are pulling in over $150,000, and that’s before you factor in the local cost of living.
With an index of 86.5—meaning everything from groceries to rent is about 14% cheaper than the national average—your paycheck buys a lot more here. A one-bedroom apartment averages just $847 a month, and the median household income of $63,745 actually stretches. The COL-adjusted average salary? A healthy $88,010. For a mid-career professional, this place is a bargain.
Who’s thriving? The usual suspects, but with a local twist. The healthcare sector, anchored by San Juan Regional Medical Center, keeps pharmacists and project managers busy. The energy industry, a long-time pillar in the Four Corners, fuels demand for construction managers. And yes, even software developers are finding a niche, often in remote roles that pay Silicon Valley rates while you live on a Southwestern budget.
Now, the catch. The unemployment rate is a low 4%, but that’s partly because the workforce participation rate isn't sky-high. This isn't a booming tech hub; it’s a steady, practical market. The $76,129 average salary might seem modest until you see the adjusted number. It’s a city for people who value financial stability over flash, and for those who can command a top-tier salary, the math is almost unbelievable.
The data below breaks down these salaries and more, showing who gets paid what in this quiet economic engine.
🏆 Top 5 Highest-Paying Jobs in Farmington
Ranked by raw salary. See COL-adjusted figures in the full table below.
Marketing Manager
Pharmacist
Software Developer
Construction Manager
Project Manager
📋 Complete Salary Guide — All 27 Occupations in Farmington
COL-Adjusted Salary = Raw salary divided by the cost of living index (87/100). Higher = more real purchasing power. This city's COL is below the US average.
| # | Occupation ↕ | Raw Salary ↕ |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Marketing Manager | $151,236 |
| 2 | Pharmacist | $130,520 |
| 3 | Software Developer | $122,105 |
| 4 | Construction Manager | $103,827 |
| 5 | Project Manager | $97,178 |
| 6 | Physical Therapist | $95,671 |
| 7 | Financial Analyst | $95,000 |
| 8 | Web Developer | $88,993 |
| 9 | Dental Hygienist | $83,985 |
| 10 | Accountant | $82,593 |
| 11 | Registered Nurse | $82,584 |
| 12 | Data Analyst | $79,983 |
| 13 | Police Officer | $71,876 |
| 14 | Human Resources Specialist | $64,910 |
| 15 | Elementary School Teacher | $61,091 |
| 16 | Plumber | $60,784 |
| 17 | Paralegal | $60,208 |
| 18 | Electrician | $59,057 |
| 19 | Real Estate Agent | $58,990 |
| 20 | Graphic Designer | $58,855 |
| 21 | Firefighter | $54,806 |
| 22 | Carpenter | $54,614 |
| 23 | HVAC Technician | $53,415 |
| 24 | Heavy Truck Driver | $50,939 |
| 25 | Nursing Assistant (CNA) | $47,975 |
| 26 | Welder | $47,581 |
| 27 | Medical Assistant | $36,720 |
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Employment Statistics. COL Index from C2ER/ACCRA.
🏙️ Living Costs in Farmington
🧮 Can You Afford to Live in Farmington?
Use our Salary Reality Check to see if your specific income covers housing, taxes, and expenses in Farmington. Enter your salary and see exactly how far your money goes.
❓ Farmington Salary FAQ
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📝 Editor's Verdict: Is Farmington Worth It?
Honestly, Farmington’s 2026 numbers look solid: average salary of $76,129 with a cost-of-living index at 86.5 and rent around $847 a month. Marketing Managers win big, earning $151,236 (or $174,839 after COL), but it’s not just suits who thrive here. Healthcare and skilled trades—think nurses, electricians, and energy techs—get strong pay with dollars that stretch further than in bigger cities. If you’re remote or in tech, you’ll save a lot, but the local job market for pure tech roles is still growing. My verdict: if you want a simple life and real purchasing power, Farmington is financially worth it, especially if you’re in healthcare, trades, or marketing. Be ready for a small-town pace and limited big-city amenities, though. My advice: visit for a week before you commit—meet locals, check out neighborhoods, and make sure the vibe fits your life.