Phoenix, AZ vs Albuquerque, NM: 109 vs 80

$1,458/mo ↑ 34%

Median Rent

$1,085/mo ↓ 26%

$77,041/yr ↑ 17%

Median Income

$65,604/yr ↓ 15%

$381,900 ↑ 43%

Home Value

$266,700 ↓ 30%

$1,430/mo ↑ 24%

Owner Costs

$1,149/mo ↓ 20%

1,624,832

Population

562,488

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Phoenix, AZ and Albuquerque, NM, the overall cost of living indices are 109 and 80 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $373/month cheaper in Albuquerque, saving renters about $4,476/year.

Median household income is $11,437/year higher in Phoenix. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Phoenix is $381,900 compared to $266,700 in Albuquerque.

Arizona has a lower income tax rate, making Phoenix slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Phoenix vs Albuquerque — common questions

Is Phoenix or Albuquerque cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Albuquerque is cheaper to live in with an index of 80 compared to 109 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Phoenix and Albuquerque?

Median rent in Phoenix is $1,458/month and in Albuquerque it's $1,085/month — a difference of $373/month.

Which city has higher income, Phoenix or Albuquerque?

Median household income is $77,041 in Phoenix and $65,604 in Albuquerque. Median household income is $11,437/year higher in Phoenix.

How do taxes compare between Arizona and New Mexico?

Arizona has 2.5% income tax, 5.6% sales tax, and 0.62% property tax. New Mexico has 5.9% income tax, 5.0% sales tax, and 0.67% property tax.

Should I move to Phoenix or Albuquerque?

It depends on your priorities. Phoenix has a cost index of 109 with median rent of $1,458/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.

Cost of Living: Phoenix, AZ vs Albuquerque, NM (2026)

Phoenix

Albuquerque

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

More Comparisons