Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
20% cheaper
Albuquerque is 20% more affordable than Frisco. A $75,000 salary in Frisco is equivalent to $60,000 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 · Texas salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Albuquerque has a housing index of 80 while Frisco sits at 142 (national average = 100). The median home in Albuquerque costs $260,000 compared to $500,000 in Frisco, a difference of $240,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $1,100 in Albuquerque versus $1,900 in Frisco.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a narrower gap: Albuquerque scores 97 while Frisco scores 99. Both cities are close to the national average for grocery costs.
Healthcare costs in Albuquerque (94) are lower than Frisco (100). Both are close to the national average.
Median household income in Albuquerque is $52,911 compared to $126,048 in Frisco. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Albuquerque.
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