Cost of Living: Albuquerque, NM vs Westminster, CO (2026)

Albuquerque

New Mexico

Westminster

Colorado

139

Albuquerque is 59% cheaper than Westminster.

$1,085/mo ↓ 40%

Median Rent

$1,816/mo ↑ 67%

$65,604/yr ↓ 32%

Median Income

$96,145/yr ↑ 47%

$266,700 ↓ 46%

Home Value

$497,400 ↑ 87%

$1,149/mo ↓ 38%

Owner Costs

$1,841/mo ↑ 60%

562,488

Population

115,546

Tax Comparison

5.9%

Income Tax

4.4%

5.0%

Sales Tax

2.9%

0.67%

Property Tax

0.51%

Affordability

19.8%

rent-to-income

Affordability

22.7%

rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Albuquerque, NM and Westminster, CO, the overall cost of living indices are 80 and 139 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $731/month cheaper in Albuquerque, saving renters about $8,772/year.

Median household income is $30,541/year higher in Westminster. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Albuquerque is $266,700 compared to $497,400 in Westminster.

Colorado has a lower income tax rate, making Westminster slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Albuquerque vs Westminster — common questions

Is Albuquerque or Westminster cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Albuquerque is cheaper to live in with an index of 80 compared to 139 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Albuquerque and Westminster?

Median rent in Albuquerque is $1,085/month and in Westminster it's $1,816/month — a difference of $731/month.

Which city has higher income, Albuquerque or Westminster?

Median household income is $65,604 in Albuquerque and $96,145 in Westminster. Median household income is $30,541/year higher in Westminster.

How do taxes compare between New Mexico and Colorado?

New Mexico has 5.9% income tax, 5.0% sales tax, and 0.67% property tax. Colorado has 4.4% income tax, 2.9% sales tax, and 0.51% property tax.

Should I move to Albuquerque or Westminster?

It depends on your priorities. Albuquerque has a cost index of 80 with median rent of $1,085/mo, while Westminster has a cost index of 139 with rent of $1,816/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.