Cost of Living: Albuquerque, NM vs Spokane, WA (2026)

Albuquerque

New Mexico
80
VS

Spokane

Washington
90

Albuquerque is 10% cheaper than Spokane.

$1,085/mo ↓ 5%
Median Rent
$1,141/mo ↑ 5%
$65,604/yr ≈ Same
Median Income
$65,745/yr ≈ Same
$266,700 ↓ 18%
Home Value
$326,200 ↑ 22%
$1,149/mo ↓ 5%
Owner Costs
$1,213/mo ↑ 6%
562,488
Population
229,228

Tax Comparison

5.9%
Income Tax
0%
5.0%
Sales Tax
6.5%
0.67%
Property Tax
0.92%

Affordability

19.8%
rent-to-income
Affordability
20.8%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Albuquerque, NM and Spokane, WA, the overall cost of living indices are 80 and 90 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $56/month cheaper in Albuquerque, saving renters about $672/year.

Median household income is $141/year higher in Spokane. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Albuquerque is $266,700 compared to $326,200 in Spokane.

Washington has no state income tax, giving Spokane residents a significant tax advantage over New Mexico's 5.9% rate.

Frequently Asked Questions

Albuquerque vs Spokane — common questions

Is Albuquerque or Spokane cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Albuquerque is cheaper to live in with an index of 80 compared to 90 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Albuquerque and Spokane?
Median rent in Albuquerque is $1,085/month and in Spokane it's $1,141/month — a difference of $56/month.
Which city has higher income, Albuquerque or Spokane?
Median household income is $65,604 in Albuquerque and $65,745 in Spokane. Median household income is $141/year higher in Spokane.
How do taxes compare between New Mexico and Washington?
New Mexico has 5.9% income tax, 5.0% sales tax, and 0.67% property tax. Washington has 0% income tax, 6.5% sales tax, and 0.92% property tax.
Should I move to Albuquerque or Spokane?
It depends on your priorities. Albuquerque has a cost index of 80 with median rent of $1,085/mo, while Spokane has a cost index of 90 with rent of $1,141/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
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