Cost of Living: Albuquerque, NM vs Anchorage, AK (2026)

Albuquerque

New Mexico
80
VS

Anchorage

Alaska
113

Albuquerque is 33% cheaper than Anchorage.

$1,085/mo ↓ 25%
Median Rent
$1,453/mo ↑ 34%
$65,604/yr ↓ 33%
Median Income
$98,152/yr ↑ 50%
$266,700 ↓ 29%
Home Value
$375,900 ↑ 41%
$1,149/mo ↓ 32%
Owner Costs
$1,698/mo ↑ 48%
562,488
Population
289,069

Tax Comparison

5.9%
Income Tax
0%
5.0%
Sales Tax
0%
0.67%
Property Tax
1.04%

Affordability

19.8%
rent-to-income
Affordability
17.8%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Albuquerque, NM and Anchorage, AK, the overall cost of living indices are 80 and 113 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $368/month cheaper in Albuquerque, saving renters about $4,416/year.

Median household income is $32,548/year higher in Anchorage. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Albuquerque is $266,700 compared to $375,900 in Anchorage.

Alaska has no state income tax, giving Anchorage residents a significant tax advantage over New Mexico's 5.9% rate.

Frequently Asked Questions

Albuquerque vs Anchorage — common questions

Is Albuquerque or Anchorage cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Albuquerque is cheaper to live in with an index of 80 compared to 113 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Albuquerque and Anchorage?
Median rent in Albuquerque is $1,085/month and in Anchorage it's $1,453/month — a difference of $368/month.
Which city has higher income, Albuquerque or Anchorage?
Median household income is $65,604 in Albuquerque and $98,152 in Anchorage. Median household income is $32,548/year higher in Anchorage.
How do taxes compare between New Mexico and Alaska?
New Mexico has 5.9% income tax, 5.0% sales tax, and 0.67% property tax. Alaska has 0% income tax, 0% sales tax, and 1.04% property tax.
Should I move to Albuquerque or Anchorage?
It depends on your priorities. Albuquerque has a cost index of 80 with median rent of $1,085/mo, while Anchorage has a cost index of 113 with rent of $1,453/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
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