Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
22% cheaper
Albuquerque is 22% more affordable than Manchester. A $75,000 salary in Manchester is equivalent to $58,475 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 · New Hampshire salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Albuquerque has a housing index of 80 while Manchester sits at 140 (national average = 100). The median home in Albuquerque costs $260,000 compared to $350,000 in Manchester, a difference of $90,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $1,100 in Albuquerque versus $1,600 in Manchester.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a notable difference: Albuquerque scores 97 while Manchester scores 105. Both cities are close to the national average for grocery costs.
Healthcare costs in Albuquerque (94) are lower than Manchester (112).
Median household income in Albuquerque is $52,911 compared to $65,018 in Manchester. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Albuquerque.
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