Cost of Living: Albuquerque, NM vs Shreveport, LA (2026)

Albuquerque

New Mexico

Shreveport

Louisiana

Albuquerque is 15% more expensive than Shreveport.

$1,085/mo ↑ 11%

Median Rent

$980/mo ↓ 10%

$65,604/yr ↑ 35%

Median Income

$48,465/yr ↓ 26%

$266,700 ↑ 50%

Home Value

$178,100 ↓ 33%

$1,149/mo ↑ 17%

Owner Costs

$984/mo ↓ 14%

562,488

Population

183,483

Tax Comparison

5.9%

Income Tax

4.25%

5.0%

Sales Tax

4.45%

0.67%

Property Tax

0.55%

Affordability

19.8%

rent-to-income

Affordability

24.3%

rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Albuquerque, NM and Shreveport, LA, the overall cost of living indices are 80 and 65 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $105/month cheaper in Shreveport, saving renters about $1,260/year.

Median household income is $17,139/year higher in Albuquerque. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Albuquerque is $266,700 compared to $178,100 in Shreveport.

Louisiana has a lower income tax rate, making Shreveport slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Albuquerque vs Shreveport — common questions

Is Albuquerque or Shreveport cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Shreveport is cheaper to live in with an index of 65 compared to 80 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Albuquerque and Shreveport?

Median rent in Albuquerque is $1,085/month and in Shreveport it's $980/month — a difference of $105/month.

Which city has higher income, Albuquerque or Shreveport?

Median household income is $65,604 in Albuquerque and $48,465 in Shreveport. Median household income is $17,139/year higher in Albuquerque.

How do taxes compare between New Mexico and Louisiana?

New Mexico has 5.9% income tax, 5.0% sales tax, and 0.67% property tax. Louisiana has 4.25% income tax, 4.45% sales tax, and 0.55% property tax.

Should I move to Albuquerque or Shreveport?

It depends on your priorities. Albuquerque has a cost index of 80 with median rent of $1,085/mo, while Shreveport has a cost index of 65 with rent of $980/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.