Cost of Living: Albuquerque, NM vs Jackson, MS (2026)

Albuquerque

New Mexico
80
VS

Jackson

Mississippi
58

Albuquerque is 22% more expensive than Jackson.

$1,085/mo ↑ 7%
Median Rent
$1,018/mo ↓ 6%
$65,604/yr ↑ 52%
Median Income
$43,238/yr ↓ 34%
$266,700 ↑ 146%
Home Value
$108,200 ↓ 59%
$1,149/mo ↑ 20%
Owner Costs
$956/mo ↓ 17%
562,488
Population
149,827

Tax Comparison

5.9%
Income Tax
5.0%
5.0%
Sales Tax
7.0%
0.67%
Property Tax
0.67%

Affordability

19.8%
rent-to-income
Affordability
28.3%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Albuquerque, NM and Jackson, MS, the overall cost of living indices are 80 and 58 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $67/month cheaper in Jackson, saving renters about $804/year.

Median household income is $22,366/year higher in Albuquerque. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Albuquerque is $266,700 compared to $108,200 in Jackson.

Mississippi has a lower income tax rate, making Jackson slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Albuquerque vs Jackson — common questions

Is Albuquerque or Jackson cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Jackson is cheaper to live in with an index of 58 compared to 80 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Albuquerque and Jackson?
Median rent in Albuquerque is $1,085/month and in Jackson it's $1,018/month — a difference of $67/month.
Which city has higher income, Albuquerque or Jackson?
Median household income is $65,604 in Albuquerque and $43,238 in Jackson. Median household income is $22,366/year higher in Albuquerque.
How do taxes compare between New Mexico and Mississippi?
New Mexico has 5.9% income tax, 5.0% sales tax, and 0.67% property tax. Mississippi has 5.0% income tax, 7.0% sales tax, and 0.67% property tax.
Should I move to Albuquerque or Jackson?
It depends on your priorities. Albuquerque has a cost index of 80 with median rent of $1,085/mo, while Jackson has a cost index of 58 with rent of $1,018/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
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