Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
13% cheaper
Albuquerque is 13% more affordable than Boise. A $75,000 salary in Boise 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 · Idaho salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Albuquerque has a housing index of 80 while Boise sits at 118 (national average = 100). The median home in Albuquerque costs $260,000 compared to $420,000 in Boise, a difference of $160,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $1,100 in Albuquerque versus $1,400 in Boise.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a narrower gap: Albuquerque scores 97 while Boise scores 99. Both cities are close to the national average for grocery costs.
Healthcare costs in Albuquerque (94) are lower than Boise (98). Both are close to the national average.
Median household income in Albuquerque is $52,911 compared to $60,818 in Boise. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Albuquerque.
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