Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
13% cheaper
Albuquerque is 13% more affordable than Baltimore. A $75,000 salary in Baltimore is equivalent to $65,094 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 · Maryland salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Albuquerque has a housing index of 80 while Baltimore sits at 107 (national average = 100). The median home in Albuquerque costs $260,000 compared to $200,000 in Baltimore, a difference of $60,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $1,100 in Albuquerque versus $1,300 in Baltimore.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a notable difference: Albuquerque scores 97 while Baltimore scores 103. Both cities are close to the national average for grocery costs.
Healthcare costs in Albuquerque (94) are lower than Baltimore (101). Both are close to the national average.
Median household income in Albuquerque is $52,911 compared to $52,164 in Baltimore. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Albuquerque.
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