Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
41% cheaper
Albuquerque is 41% more affordable than Long Beach. A $75,000 salary in Long Beach is equivalent to $44,516 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 · California salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Albuquerque has a housing index of 80 while Long Beach sits at 236 (national average = 100). The median home in Albuquerque costs $260,000 compared to $700,000 in Long Beach, a difference of $440,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $1,100 in Albuquerque versus $2,200 in Long Beach.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a notable difference: Albuquerque scores 97 while Long Beach scores 106.
Healthcare costs in Albuquerque (94) are lower than Long Beach (103). Both are close to the national average.
Median household income in Albuquerque is $52,911 compared to $60,567 in Long Beach. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Albuquerque.
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