Is Mesa or Albuquerque more affordable?
Mesa has a median rent of $1,500/month, while Albuquerque is $1,100/month. Albuquerque is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Mesa, AZ vs Albuquerque, NM
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Mesa and Albuquerque.
3
Mesa wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
2
Albuquerque wins
AZ
Mesa
vs
NM
Albuquerque
Overview
504,258
Population
564,559
$56,891✓
Median Income
-8.8%$51,912
Cost of Living
$1,500
Median Rent / mo
-26.7%$1,100✓
$380,000
Median Home Price
-32.9%$255,000✓
32%
Rent-to-Income %
25%
Taxes
2.50%✓
State Income Tax
5.90%
8.30%
Local Tax Rate
7.88%
Climate & Weather
87°F
Avg High Temp
70°F
62°F
Avg Low Temp
46°F
299 days✓
Sunny Days / Year
278 days
8"
Annual Rainfall
10"
Who should choose
Mesa, AZ
Mesa is a city in Arizona with a population of 504,258.
Read full Mesa guide →Who should choose
Albuquerque, NM
Albuquerque is a city in New Mexico with a population of 564,559.
Read full Albuquerque guide →Mesa vs Albuquerque — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Mesa or Albuquerque?
Arizona has a 2.50% state income tax. New Mexico has a 5.90% state income tax. Mesa wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Mesa and Albuquerque?
Mesa gets 299 sunny days/year. Albuquerque gets 278 sunny days/year. Avg high in Mesa: 87°F. Avg high in Albuquerque: 70°F
Which city is better for families — Mesa or Albuquerque?
Mesa. Albuquerque. 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.