Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
28% cheaper
Albuquerque is 28% more affordable than Anchorage. A $75,000 salary in Anchorage is equivalent to $54,331 in Albuquerque.
Index values shown. National average = 100. Lower is cheaper.
To maintain the same standard of living:
See exact take-home pay: New Mexico salaries · Alaska salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Albuquerque has a housing index of 80 while Anchorage sits at 142 (national average = 100). The median home in Albuquerque costs $260,000 compared to $340,000 in Anchorage, a difference of $80,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $1,100 in Albuquerque versus $1,400 in Anchorage.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a notable difference: Albuquerque scores 97 while Anchorage scores 120.
Healthcare costs in Albuquerque (94) are lower than Anchorage (128).
Median household income in Albuquerque is $52,911 compared to $72,515 in Anchorage. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Albuquerque.
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