Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
7% cheaper
Albuquerque is 7% more affordable than Mesa. A $75,000 salary in Mesa is equivalent to $69,697 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 · Arizona salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Albuquerque has a housing index of 80 while Mesa sits at 98 (national average = 100). The median home in Albuquerque costs $260,000 compared to $350,000 in Mesa, a difference of $90,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $1,100 in Albuquerque versus $1,350 in Mesa.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a narrower gap: Albuquerque scores 97 while Mesa scores 99. Both cities are close to the national average for grocery costs.
Healthcare costs in Albuquerque (94) are lower than Mesa (95). Both are close to the national average.
Median household income in Albuquerque is $52,911 compared to $60,234 in Mesa. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Albuquerque.
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