Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
16% cheaper
Albuquerque is 16% more affordable than Chandler. A $75,000 salary in Chandler is equivalent to $62,727 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 · Arizona salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Albuquerque has a housing index of 80 while Chandler sits at 126 (national average = 100). The median home in Albuquerque costs $260,000 compared to $450,000 in Chandler, a difference of $190,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $1,100 in Albuquerque versus $1,650 in Chandler.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a narrower gap: Albuquerque scores 97 while Chandler scores 100. Both cities are close to the national average for grocery costs.
Healthcare costs in Albuquerque (94) are lower than Chandler (95). Both are close to the national average.
Median household income in Albuquerque is $52,911 compared to $88,234 in Chandler. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Albuquerque.
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