Cost of Living: Albuquerque, NM vs Provo, UT 2026

$1,085/mo ↓ 6%

Median Rent

$1,152/mo ↑ 6%

$65,604/yr ↑ 4%

Median Income

$62,800/yr ↓ 4%

$266,700 ↓ 39%

Home Value

$437,100 ↑ 64%

$1,149/mo ↓ 6%

Owner Costs

$1,220/mo ↑ 6%

562,488

Population

114,303

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Albuquerque, NM and Provo, UT, the overall cost of living indices are 80 and 102 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $67/month cheaper in Albuquerque, saving renters about $804/year.

Median household income is $2,804/year higher in Albuquerque. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Albuquerque is $266,700 compared to $437,100 in Provo.

Utah has a lower income tax rate, making Provo slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Albuquerque vs Provo — common questions

Is Albuquerque or Provo cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Albuquerque is cheaper to live in with an index of 80 compared to 102 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Albuquerque and Provo?

Median rent in Albuquerque is $1,085/month and in Provo it's $1,152/month — a difference of $67/month.

Which city has higher income, Albuquerque or Provo?

Median household income is $65,604 in Albuquerque and $62,800 in Provo. Median household income is $2,804/year higher in Albuquerque.

How do taxes compare between New Mexico and Utah?

New Mexico has 5.9% income tax, 5.0% sales tax, and 0.67% property tax. Utah has 4.65% income tax, 6.1% sales tax, and 0.58% property tax.

Should I move to Albuquerque or Provo?

It depends on your priorities. Albuquerque has a cost index of 80 with median rent of $1,085/mo, while Provo has a cost index of 102 with rent of $1,152/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Albuquerque, NM vs Provo, UT (2026)

Albuquerque

Provo

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions