Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
45% cheaper
Albuquerque is 45% more affordable than Los Angeles. A $75,000 salary in Los Angeles is equivalent to $41,566 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 Los Angeles sits at 262 (national average = 100). The median home in Albuquerque costs $260,000 compared to $850,000 in Los Angeles, a difference of $590,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $1,100 in Albuquerque versus $2,700 in Los Angeles.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a notable difference: Albuquerque scores 97 while Los Angeles scores 107.
Healthcare costs in Albuquerque (94) are lower than Los Angeles (103). Both are close to the national average.
Median household income in Albuquerque is $52,911 compared to $65,290 in Los Angeles. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Albuquerque.
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