Cost of Living: Albuquerque, NM vs Rochester, NY (2026)

Albuquerque

New Mexico
80
VS

Rochester

New York
61

Albuquerque is 19% more expensive than Rochester.

$1,085/mo ↑ 4%
Median Rent
$1,039/mo ↓ 4%
$65,604/yr ↑ 41%
Median Income
$46,628/yr ↓ 29%
$266,700 ↑ 121%
Home Value
$120,600 ↓ 55%
$1,149/mo ↑ 14%
Owner Costs
$1,009/mo ↓ 12%
562,488
Population
209,720

Tax Comparison

5.9%
Income Tax
10.9%
5.0%
Sales Tax
4.0%
0.67%
Property Tax
1.62%

Affordability

19.8%
rent-to-income
Affordability
26.7%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Albuquerque, NM and Rochester, NY, the overall cost of living indices are 80 and 61 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is comparable in both cities, with less than $50/month separating them.

Median household income is $18,976/year higher in Albuquerque. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Albuquerque is $266,700 compared to $120,600 in Rochester.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Albuquerque vs Rochester — common questions

Is Albuquerque or Rochester cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Rochester is cheaper to live in with an index of 61 compared to 80 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Albuquerque and Rochester?
Median rent in Albuquerque is $1,085/month and in Rochester it's $1,039/month — a difference of $46/month.
Which city has higher income, Albuquerque or Rochester?
Median household income is $65,604 in Albuquerque and $46,628 in Rochester. Median household income is $18,976/year higher in Albuquerque.
How do taxes compare between New Mexico and New York?
New Mexico has 5.9% income tax, 5.0% sales tax, and 0.67% property tax. New York has 10.9% income tax, 4.0% sales tax, and 1.62% property tax.
Should I move to Albuquerque or Rochester?
It depends on your priorities. Albuquerque has a cost index of 80 with median rent of $1,085/mo, while Rochester has a cost index of 61 with rent of $1,039/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
View Albuquerque details → View Rochester details →