Albuquerque, NM vs Irvine, CA: 80 vs 256

$1,085/mo ↓ 62%

Median Rent

$2,893/mo ↑ 167%

$65,604/yr ↓ 49%

Median Income

$129,647/yr ↑ 98%

$266,700 ↓ 76%

Home Value

$1,115,400 ↑ 318%

$1,149/mo ↓ 60%

Owner Costs

$2,904/mo ↑ 153%

562,488

Population

308,160

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Albuquerque, NM and Irvine, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 80 and 256 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $1,808/month cheaper in Albuquerque, saving renters about $21,696/year.

Median household income is $64,043/year higher in Irvine. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Albuquerque is $266,700 compared to $1,115,400 in Irvine.

New Mexico has a lower income tax rate, making Albuquerque slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Albuquerque vs Irvine — common questions

Is Albuquerque or Irvine cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Albuquerque is cheaper to live in with an index of 80 compared to 256 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Albuquerque and Irvine?

Median rent in Albuquerque is $1,085/month and in Irvine it's $2,893/month — a difference of $1,808/month.

Which city has higher income, Albuquerque or Irvine?

Median household income is $65,604 in Albuquerque and $129,647 in Irvine. Median household income is $64,043/year higher in Irvine.

How do taxes compare between New Mexico and California?

New Mexico has 5.9% income tax, 5.0% sales tax, and 0.67% property tax. California has 13.3% income tax, 7.25% sales tax, and 0.71% property tax.

Should I move to Albuquerque or Irvine?

It depends on your priorities. Albuquerque has a cost index of 80 with median rent of $1,085/mo, while Irvine has a cost index of 256 with rent of $2,893/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Albuquerque, NM vs Irvine, CA (2026)

Albuquerque

Irvine

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

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