Cost of Living: Albuquerque, NM vs Las Cruces, NM 2026

$1,085/mo ↑ 15%

Median Rent

$946/mo ↓ 13%

$65,604/yr ↑ 19%

Median Income

$55,176/yr ↓ 16%

$266,700 ↑ 23%

Home Value

$217,400 ↓ 18%

$1,149/mo ↑ 18%

Owner Costs

$974/mo ↓ 15%

562,488

Population

112,612

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Albuquerque, NM and Las Cruces, NM, the overall cost of living indices are 80 and 68 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $139/month cheaper in Las Cruces, saving renters about $1,668/year.

Median household income is $10,428/year higher in Albuquerque. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Albuquerque is $266,700 compared to $217,400 in Las Cruces.

Both cities share the same state tax structure since they are in New Mexico.

Frequently Asked Questions

Albuquerque vs Las Cruces — common questions

Is Albuquerque or Las Cruces cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Las Cruces is cheaper to live in with an index of 68 compared to 80 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Albuquerque and Las Cruces?

Median rent in Albuquerque is $1,085/month and in Las Cruces it's $946/month — a difference of $139/month.

Which city has higher income, Albuquerque or Las Cruces?

Median household income is $65,604 in Albuquerque and $55,176 in Las Cruces. Median household income is $10,428/year higher in Albuquerque.

How do taxes compare between New Mexico and New Mexico?

Both cities are in New Mexico and share the same state tax rates: 5.9% income tax, 5.0% sales tax, and 0.67% property tax.

Should I move to Albuquerque or Las Cruces?

It depends on your priorities. Albuquerque has a cost index of 80 with median rent of $1,085/mo, while Las Cruces has a cost index of 68 with rent of $946/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Albuquerque, NM vs Las Cruces, NM (2026)

Albuquerque

Las Cruces

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions