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

Albuquerque

New Mexico
80
VS

Tacoma

Washington
126

Albuquerque is 46% cheaper than Tacoma.

$1,085/mo ↓ 32%
Median Rent
$1,597/mo ↑ 47%
$65,604/yr ↓ 22%
Median Income
$83,857/yr ↑ 28%
$266,700 ↓ 41%
Home Value
$454,600 ↑ 70%
$1,149/mo ↓ 34%
Owner Costs
$1,747/mo ↑ 52%
562,488
Population
220,482

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
22.9%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Albuquerque, NM and Tacoma, WA, the overall cost of living indices are 80 and 126 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $512/month cheaper in Albuquerque, saving renters about $6,144/year.

Median household income is $18,253/year higher in Tacoma. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Albuquerque is $266,700 compared to $454,600 in Tacoma.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Albuquerque vs Tacoma — common questions

Is Albuquerque or Tacoma cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Albuquerque is cheaper to live in with an index of 80 compared to 126 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Albuquerque and Tacoma?
Median rent in Albuquerque is $1,085/month and in Tacoma it's $1,597/month — a difference of $512/month.
Which city has higher income, Albuquerque or Tacoma?
Median household income is $65,604 in Albuquerque and $83,857 in Tacoma. Median household income is $18,253/year higher in Tacoma.
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 Tacoma?
It depends on your priorities. Albuquerque has a cost index of 80 with median rent of $1,085/mo, while Tacoma has a cost index of 126 with rent of $1,597/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
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