Albuquerque, NM vs Metairie, LA: 80 vs 88

$1,085/mo ↓ 6%

Median Rent

$1,159/mo ↑ 7%

$65,604/yr ↓ 10%

Median Income

$73,256/yr ↑ 12%

$266,700 ↓ 14%

Home Value

$308,900 ↑ 16%

$1,149/mo ↓ 3%

Owner Costs

$1,186/mo ↑ 3%

562,488

Population

138,995

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Albuquerque, NM and Metairie, LA, the overall cost of living indices are 80 and 88 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $74/month cheaper in Albuquerque, saving renters about $888/year.

Median household income is $7,652/year higher in Metairie. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Albuquerque is $266,700 compared to $308,900 in Metairie.

Louisiana has a lower income tax rate, making Metairie slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Albuquerque vs Metairie — common questions

Is Albuquerque or Metairie cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Albuquerque is cheaper to live in with an index of 80 compared to 88 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Albuquerque and Metairie?

Median rent in Albuquerque is $1,085/month and in Metairie it's $1,159/month — a difference of $74/month.

Which city has higher income, Albuquerque or Metairie?

Median household income is $65,604 in Albuquerque and $73,256 in Metairie. Median household income is $7,652/year higher in Metairie.

How do taxes compare between New Mexico and Louisiana?

New Mexico has 5.9% income tax, 5.0% sales tax, and 0.67% property tax. Louisiana has 4.25% income tax, 4.45% sales tax, and 0.55% property tax.

Should I move to Albuquerque or Metairie?

It depends on your priorities. Albuquerque has a cost index of 80 with median rent of $1,085/mo, while Metairie has a cost index of 88 with rent of $1,159/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Albuquerque, NM vs Metairie, LA (2026)

Albuquerque

Metairie

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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