Cost of Living: Albuquerque, NM vs Ann Arbor, MI (2026)

Albuquerque

New Mexico
80
VS

Ann Arbor

Michigan
121

Albuquerque is 41% cheaper than Ann Arbor.

$1,085/mo ↓ 30%
Median Rent
$1,552/mo ↑ 43%
$65,604/yr ↓ 19%
Median Income
$81,089/yr ↑ 24%
$266,700 ↓ 39%
Home Value
$435,100 ↑ 63%
$1,149/mo ↓ 30%
Owner Costs
$1,638/mo ↑ 43%
562,488
Population
121,179

Tax Comparison

5.9%
Income Tax
4.25%
5.0%
Sales Tax
6.0%
0.67%
Property Tax
1.38%

Affordability

19.8%
rent-to-income
Affordability
23.0%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Albuquerque, NM and Ann Arbor, MI, the overall cost of living indices are 80 and 121 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $467/month cheaper in Albuquerque, saving renters about $5,604/year.

Median household income is $15,485/year higher in Ann Arbor. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Albuquerque is $266,700 compared to $435,100 in Ann Arbor.

Michigan has a lower income tax rate, making Ann Arbor slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Albuquerque vs Ann Arbor — common questions

Is Albuquerque or Ann Arbor cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Albuquerque is cheaper to live in with an index of 80 compared to 121 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Albuquerque and Ann Arbor?
Median rent in Albuquerque is $1,085/month and in Ann Arbor it's $1,552/month — a difference of $467/month.
Which city has higher income, Albuquerque or Ann Arbor?
Median household income is $65,604 in Albuquerque and $81,089 in Ann Arbor. Median household income is $15,485/year higher in Ann Arbor.
How do taxes compare between New Mexico and Michigan?
New Mexico has 5.9% income tax, 5.0% sales tax, and 0.67% property tax. Michigan has 4.25% income tax, 6.0% sales tax, and 1.38% property tax.
Should I move to Albuquerque or Ann Arbor?
It depends on your priorities. Albuquerque has a cost index of 80 with median rent of $1,085/mo, while Ann Arbor has a cost index of 121 with rent of $1,552/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
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