Is Albuquerque or Salt Lake City more affordable?
Albuquerque has a median rent of $1,100/month, while Salt Lake City is $1,450/month. Albuquerque is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Albuquerque, NM vs Salt Lake City, UT
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Albuquerque and Salt Lake City.
3
Albuquerque wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
2
Salt Lake City wins
NM
Albuquerque
vs
UT
Salt Lake City
Overview
564,559
Population
199,723
$51,912
Median Income
+11.7%$58,000✓
Cost of Living
$1,100✓
Median Rent / mo
+31.8%$1,450
$255,000✓
Median Home Price
+88.2%$480,000
25%
Rent-to-Income %
30%
Taxes
5.90%
State Income Tax
4.65%✓
7.88%
Local Tax Rate
7.75%
Climate & Weather
70°F
Avg High Temp
65°F
46°F
Avg Low Temp
41°F
278 days✓
Sunny Days / Year
222 days
10"
Annual Rainfall
17"
Who should choose
Albuquerque, NM
Albuquerque is a city in New Mexico with a population of 564,559.
Read full Albuquerque guide →Who should choose
Salt Lake City, UT
Salt Lake City is a city in Utah with a population of 199,723.
Read full Salt Lake City guide →Albuquerque vs Salt Lake City — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Albuquerque or Salt Lake City?
New Mexico has a 5.90% state income tax. Utah has a 4.65% state income tax. Salt Lake City wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Albuquerque and Salt Lake City?
Albuquerque gets 278 sunny days/year. Salt Lake City gets 222 sunny days/year. Avg high in Albuquerque: 70°F. Avg high in Salt Lake City: 65°F
Which city is better for families — Albuquerque or Salt Lake City?
Albuquerque. Salt Lake City. The right choice depends on your priorities — income, affordability, taxes, and climate all play a role.
More city comparisons
Data sourced from U.S. Census Bureau, Bureau of Labor Statistics, and NOAA. Green values indicate a better outcome for that metric.