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

Albuquerque

New Mexico

Moreno Valley

California

144

Albuquerque is 64% cheaper than Moreno Valley.

$1,085/mo ↓ 47%

Median Rent

$2,036/mo ↑ 88%

$65,604/yr ↓ 25%

Median Income

$87,477/yr ↑ 33%

$266,700 ↓ 42%

Home Value

$461,400 ↑ 73%

$1,149/mo ↓ 42%

Owner Costs

$1,980/mo ↑ 72%

562,488

Population

210,378

Tax Comparison

5.9%

Income Tax

13.3%

5.0%

Sales Tax

7.25%

0.67%

Property Tax

0.71%

Affordability

19.8%

rent-to-income

Affordability

27.9%

rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Albuquerque, NM and Moreno Valley, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 80 and 144 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $951/month cheaper in Albuquerque, saving renters about $11,412/year.

Median household income is $21,873/year higher in Moreno Valley. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Albuquerque is $266,700 compared to $461,400 in Moreno Valley.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Albuquerque vs Moreno Valley — common questions

Is Albuquerque or Moreno Valley cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Albuquerque is cheaper to live in with an index of 80 compared to 144 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Albuquerque and Moreno Valley?

Median rent in Albuquerque is $1,085/month and in Moreno Valley it's $2,036/month — a difference of $951/month.

Which city has higher income, Albuquerque or Moreno Valley?

Median household income is $65,604 in Albuquerque and $87,477 in Moreno Valley. Median household income is $21,873/year higher in Moreno Valley.

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 Moreno Valley?

It depends on your priorities. Albuquerque has a cost index of 80 with median rent of $1,085/mo, while Moreno Valley has a cost index of 144 with rent of $2,036/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.