Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
5% cheaper
Oklahoma City is 5% more affordable than Albuquerque. A $75,000 salary in Albuquerque is equivalent to $70,924 in Oklahoma City.
Index values shown. National average = 100. Lower is cheaper.
To maintain the same standard of living:
See exact take-home pay: New Mexico salaries · Oklahoma salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Albuquerque has a housing index of 80 while Oklahoma City sits at 68 (national average = 100). The median home in Albuquerque costs $260,000 compared to $195,000 in Oklahoma City, a difference of $65,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $1,100 in Albuquerque versus $1,000 in Oklahoma City.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a narrower gap: Albuquerque scores 97 while Oklahoma City scores 95. Both cities are close to the national average for grocery costs.
Healthcare costs in Albuquerque (94) are higher than Oklahoma City (92).
Median household income in Albuquerque is $52,911 compared to $55,458 in Oklahoma City. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Oklahoma City.
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