Cost of Living: Albuquerque, NM vs Norman, OK (2026)

Albuquerque

New Mexico
80
VS

Norman

Oklahoma
76

Albuquerque is 4% more expensive than Norman.

$1,085/mo ↑ 2%
Median Rent
$1,064/mo ↓ 2%
$65,604/yr ≈ Same
Median Income
$65,060/yr ≈ Same
$266,700 ↑ 11%
Home Value
$239,300 ↓ 10%
$1,149/mo ↑ 2%
Owner Costs
$1,121/mo ↓ 2%
562,488
Population
128,714

Tax Comparison

5.9%
Income Tax
4.75%
5.0%
Sales Tax
4.5%
0.67%
Property Tax
0.9%

Affordability

19.8%
rent-to-income
Affordability
19.6%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Albuquerque, NM and Norman, OK, the overall cost of living indices are 80 and 76 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is comparable in both cities, with less than $50/month separating them.

Median household income is $544/year higher in Albuquerque. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Albuquerque is $266,700 compared to $239,300 in Norman.

Oklahoma has a lower income tax rate, making Norman slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Albuquerque vs Norman — common questions

Is Albuquerque or Norman cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Norman is cheaper to live in with an index of 76 compared to 80 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Albuquerque and Norman?
Median rent in Albuquerque is $1,085/month and in Norman it's $1,064/month — a difference of $21/month.
Which city has higher income, Albuquerque or Norman?
Median household income is $65,604 in Albuquerque and $65,060 in Norman. Median household income is $544/year higher in Albuquerque.
How do taxes compare between New Mexico and Oklahoma?
New Mexico has 5.9% income tax, 5.0% sales tax, and 0.67% property tax. Oklahoma has 4.75% income tax, 4.5% sales tax, and 0.9% property tax.
Should I move to Albuquerque or Norman?
It depends on your priorities. Albuquerque has a cost index of 80 with median rent of $1,085/mo, while Norman has a cost index of 76 with rent of $1,064/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
View Albuquerque details → View Norman details →