Cost of Living: Albuquerque, NM vs Des Moines, IA (2026)

Albuquerque

New Mexico

Des Moines

Iowa

Albuquerque is 10% more expensive than Des Moines.

$1,085/mo ↑ 3%

Median Rent

$1,054/mo ↓ 3%

$65,604/yr ↑ 3%

Median Income

$63,966/yr ↓ 2%

$266,700 ↑ 45%

Home Value

$183,700 ↓ 31%

$1,149/mo ↑ 1%

Owner Costs

$1,137/mo ↓ 1%

562,488

Population

212,464

Tax Comparison

5.9%

Income Tax

5.7%

5.0%

Sales Tax

6.0%

0.67%

Property Tax

1.57%

Affordability

19.8%

rent-to-income

Affordability

19.8%

rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Albuquerque, NM and Des Moines, IA, the overall cost of living indices are 80 and 70 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is comparable in both cities, with less than $50/month separating them.

Median household income is $1,638/year higher in Albuquerque. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Albuquerque is $266,700 compared to $183,700 in Des Moines.

Iowa has a lower income tax rate, making Des Moines slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Albuquerque vs Des Moines — common questions

Is Albuquerque or Des Moines cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Des Moines is cheaper to live in with an index of 70 compared to 80 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Albuquerque and Des Moines?

Median rent in Albuquerque is $1,085/month and in Des Moines it's $1,054/month — a difference of $31/month.

Which city has higher income, Albuquerque or Des Moines?

Median household income is $65,604 in Albuquerque and $63,966 in Des Moines. Median household income is $1,638/year higher in Albuquerque.

How do taxes compare between New Mexico and Iowa?

New Mexico has 5.9% income tax, 5.0% sales tax, and 0.67% property tax. Iowa has 5.7% income tax, 6.0% sales tax, and 1.57% property tax.

Should I move to Albuquerque or Des Moines?

It depends on your priorities. Albuquerque has a cost index of 80 with median rent of $1,085/mo, while Des Moines has a cost index of 70 with rent of $1,054/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.