Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
28% cheaper
Albuquerque is 28% more affordable than Riverside. A $75,000 salary in Riverside is equivalent to $53,906 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 Riverside sits at 155 (national average = 100). The median home in Albuquerque costs $260,000 compared to $500,000 in Riverside, a difference of $240,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $1,100 in Albuquerque versus $1,800 in Riverside.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a notable difference: Albuquerque scores 97 while Riverside scores 103. Both cities are close to the national average for grocery costs.
Healthcare costs in Albuquerque (94) are lower than Riverside (102). Both are close to the national average.
Median household income in Albuquerque is $52,911 compared to $67,068 in Riverside. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Albuquerque.
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