Cost of Living: Indianapolis, IN vs Albuquerque, NM (2026)

Indianapolis

Indiana
74
VS

Albuquerque

New Mexico
80

Indianapolis is 8% cheaper than Albuquerque.

$1,112/mo ↑ 2%
Median Rent
$1,085/mo ↓ 2%
$62,995/yr ↓ 4%
Median Income
$65,604/yr ↑ 4%
$207,000 ↓ 22%
Home Value
$266,700 ↑ 29%
$1,124/mo ↓ 2%
Owner Costs
$1,149/mo ↑ 2%
882,043
Population
562,488

Tax Comparison

3.05%
Income Tax
5.9%
7.0%
State Sales Tax
5.0%
0.83%
Property Tax
0.67%

Affordability

21.2%
rent-to-income
Affordability
19.8%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Indianapolis, IN and Albuquerque, NM, the overall cost of living indices are 74 and 80 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is comparable in both cities, with less than $50/month separating them.

Median household income is $2,609/year higher in Albuquerque. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Indianapolis is $207,000 compared to $266,700 in Albuquerque.

Indiana has a lower income tax rate, making Indianapolis slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Indianapolis vs Albuquerque — common questions

Is Indianapolis or Albuquerque cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Indianapolis is cheaper to live in with an index of 74 compared to 80 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Indianapolis and Albuquerque?
Median rent in Indianapolis is $1,112/month and in Albuquerque it's $1,085/month — a difference of $27/month.
Which city has higher income, Indianapolis or Albuquerque?
Median household income is $62,995 in Indianapolis and $65,604 in Albuquerque. Median household income is $2,609/year higher in Albuquerque.
How do taxes compare between Indiana and New Mexico?
Indiana has 3.05% income tax, 7.0% sales tax, and 0.83% property tax. New Mexico has 5.9% income tax, 5.0% sales tax, and 0.67% property tax.
Should I move to Indianapolis or Albuquerque?
It depends on your priorities. Indianapolis has a cost index of 74 with median rent of $1,112/mo, while Albuquerque has a cost index of 80 with rent of $1,085/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
View Indianapolis details → View Albuquerque details →

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