Albuquerque, NM

Below Avg · 80

New Mexico · Population 562,488 · Updated March 2026

$1,085
Median Rent / Month
$65,604
Median Income
$266,700
Median Home Value
$1,149
Owner Costs / Month

Affordability

How far your income goes in Albuquerque

19.8%
Rent-to-Income Ratio
Affordable
Rent takes less than 25% of median income — considered affordable by HUD standards.

Tax Burden in New Mexico

State-level tax rates that affect your costs

5.9%
Income Tax (Top Rate)
5.0%
Sales Tax
0.67%
Property Tax Rate

Estimated Annual Costs

$13,020
Annual Rent
$3,871
State Income Tax
$1,787
Property Tax (est.)

Cost of Living Overview

Albuquerque is significantly cheaper than the national average, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious individuals and families. With a cost index of 80 (where 100 equals the national median), Albuquerque residents can expect to pay median rent of $1,085/month while earning a median household income of $65,604/year.

The median home value in Albuquerque, NM is $266,700, with typical monthly owner costs around $1,149 including mortgage, insurance, and taxes. The median rent-to-income ratio of 19.8% means housing is relatively affordable here — well below the 30% threshold that HUD considers cost-burdened.

New Mexico has a moderate income tax rate of 5.9%. Combined with a 5.0% sales tax rate and 0.67% effective property tax rate, the overall tax environment is a factor in the total cost of living in Albuquerque.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about living costs in Albuquerque

What is the cost of living in Albuquerque, NM?
The cost of living index in Albuquerque, NM is 80 (US average = 100). Median monthly rent is $1,085, median household income is $65,604/year, and the median home value is $266,700.
Is Albuquerque, NM affordable?
Yes, Albuquerque is more affordable than the national average with a cost index of 80. The rent-to-income ratio is 19.8%—below the 30%% threshold considered affordable by HUD.
What is the average rent in Albuquerque, NM?
The median gross rent in Albuquerque, NM is $1,085 per month according to the US Census Bureau ACS 2023 data. Annual rent costs approximately $13,020.
What is the median household income in Albuquerque?
The median household income in Albuquerque, NM is $65,604 per year. This compares to the national median of approximately $80,000.
What are the taxes like in New Mexico?
New Mexico has a top income tax rate of 5.9%, a sales tax of 5.0%, and an effective property tax rate of 0.67%.

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