Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
9% cheaper
Albuquerque is 9% more affordable than Bakersfield. A $75,000 salary in Bakersfield is equivalent to $68,317 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 · California salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Albuquerque has a housing index of 80 while Bakersfield sits at 96 (national average = 100). The median home in Albuquerque costs $260,000 compared to $310,000 in Bakersfield, a difference of $50,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $1,100 in Albuquerque versus $1,200 in Bakersfield.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a narrower gap: Albuquerque scores 97 while Bakersfield scores 100. Both cities are close to the national average for grocery costs.
Healthcare costs in Albuquerque (94) are lower than Bakersfield (99). Both are close to the national average.
Median household income in Albuquerque is $52,911 compared to $57,548 in Bakersfield. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Albuquerque.
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