Cost of Living: Albuquerque, NM vs Scottsdale, AZ (2026)

Albuquerque

New Mexico
80
VS

Scottsdale

Arizona
165

Albuquerque is 85% cheaper than Scottsdale.

$1,085/mo ↓ 43%
Median Rent
$1,910/mo ↑ 76%
$65,604/yr ↓ 39%
Median Income
$107,372/yr ↑ 64%
$266,700 ↓ 62%
Home Value
$709,900 ↑ 166%
$1,149/mo ↓ 37%
Owner Costs
$1,824/mo ↑ 59%
562,488
Population
242,169

Tax Comparison

5.9%
Income Tax
2.5%
5.0%
Sales Tax
5.6%
0.67%
Property Tax
0.62%

Affordability

19.8%
rent-to-income
Affordability
21.3%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Albuquerque, NM and Scottsdale, AZ, the overall cost of living indices are 80 and 165 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $825/month cheaper in Albuquerque, saving renters about $9,900/year.

Median household income is $41,768/year higher in Scottsdale. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Albuquerque is $266,700 compared to $709,900 in Scottsdale.

Arizona has a lower income tax rate, making Scottsdale slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Albuquerque vs Scottsdale — common questions

Is Albuquerque or Scottsdale cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Albuquerque is cheaper to live in with an index of 80 compared to 165 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Albuquerque and Scottsdale?
Median rent in Albuquerque is $1,085/month and in Scottsdale it's $1,910/month — a difference of $825/month.
Which city has higher income, Albuquerque or Scottsdale?
Median household income is $65,604 in Albuquerque and $107,372 in Scottsdale. Median household income is $41,768/year higher in Scottsdale.
How do taxes compare between New Mexico and Arizona?
New Mexico has 5.9% income tax, 5.0% sales tax, and 0.67% property tax. Arizona has 2.5% income tax, 5.6% sales tax, and 0.62% property tax.
Should I move to Albuquerque or Scottsdale?
It depends on your priorities. Albuquerque has a cost index of 80 with median rent of $1,085/mo, while Scottsdale has a cost index of 165 with rent of $1,910/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
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