Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
51% cheaper
Albuquerque is 51% more affordable than Honolulu. A $75,000 salary in Honolulu is equivalent to $37,097 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 · Hawaii salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Albuquerque has a housing index of 80 while Honolulu sits at 275 (national average = 100). The median home in Albuquerque costs $260,000 compared to $720,000 in Honolulu, a difference of $460,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $1,100 in Albuquerque versus $2,400 in Honolulu.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a notable difference: Albuquerque scores 97 while Honolulu scores 138.
Healthcare costs in Albuquerque (94) are lower than Honolulu (107). Both are close to the national average.
Median household income in Albuquerque is $52,911 compared to $71,465 in Honolulu. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Albuquerque.
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