Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
21% cheaper
Albuquerque is 21% more affordable than Santa Fe. A $75,000 salary in Santa Fe is equivalent to $58,974 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 Mexico salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Albuquerque has a housing index of 80 while Santa Fe sits at 153 (national average = 100). The median home in Albuquerque costs $260,000 compared to $480,000 in Santa Fe, a difference of $220,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $1,100 in Albuquerque versus $1,600 in Santa Fe.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a notable difference: Albuquerque scores 97 while Santa Fe scores 103. Both cities are close to the national average for grocery costs.
Healthcare costs in Albuquerque (94) are lower than Santa Fe (95). Both are close to the national average.
Median household income in Albuquerque is $52,911 compared to $61,982 in Santa Fe. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Albuquerque.
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