Cost of Living: Albuquerque, NM vs Birmingham, AL (2026)

Albuquerque

New Mexico

Birmingham

Alabama

Albuquerque is 18% more expensive than Birmingham.

$1,085/mo ↑ 4%

Median Rent

$1,047/mo ↓ 4%

$65,604/yr ↑ 48%

Median Income

$44,376/yr ↓ 32%

$266,700 ↑ 92%

Home Value

$138,600 ↓ 48%

$1,149/mo ↑ 16%

Owner Costs

$991/mo ↓ 14%

562,488

Population

199,322

Tax Comparison

5.9%

Income Tax

5.0%

Sales Tax

4.0%

0.67%

Property Tax

0.41%

Affordability

19.8%

rent-to-income

Affordability

28.3%

rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Albuquerque, NM and Birmingham, AL, the overall cost of living indices are 80 and 62 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is comparable in both cities, with less than $50/month separating them.

Median household income is $21,228/year higher in Albuquerque. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Albuquerque is $266,700 compared to $138,600 in Birmingham.

Alabama has a lower income tax rate, making Birmingham slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Albuquerque vs Birmingham — common questions

Is Albuquerque or Birmingham cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Birmingham is cheaper to live in with an index of 62 compared to 80 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Albuquerque and Birmingham?

Median rent in Albuquerque is $1,085/month and in Birmingham it's $1,047/month — a difference of $38/month.

Which city has higher income, Albuquerque or Birmingham?

Median household income is $65,604 in Albuquerque and $44,376 in Birmingham. Median household income is $21,228/year higher in Albuquerque.

How do taxes compare between New Mexico and Alabama?

New Mexico has 5.9% income tax, 5.0% sales tax, and 0.67% property tax. Alabama has 5.0% income tax, 4.0% sales tax, and 0.41% property tax.

Should I move to Albuquerque or Birmingham?

It depends on your priorities. Albuquerque has a cost index of 80 with median rent of $1,085/mo, while Birmingham has a cost index of 62 with rent of $1,047/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.