Is Phoenix or Albuquerque more affordable?
Phoenix has a median rent of $1,650/month, while Albuquerque is $1,100/month. Albuquerque is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Phoenix, AZ vs Albuquerque, NM
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Phoenix and Albuquerque.
3
Phoenix wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
2
Albuquerque wins
AZ
Phoenix
vs
NM
Albuquerque
Overview
1,608,139
Population
564,559
$62,000✓
Median Income
-16.3%$51,912
Cost of Living
$1,650
Median Rent / mo
-33.3%$1,100✓
$420,000
Median Home Price
-39.3%$255,000✓
32%
Rent-to-Income %
25%
Taxes
2.50%✓
State Income Tax
5.90%
8.60%
Local Tax Rate
7.88%
Climate & Weather
86°F
Avg High Temp
70°F
63°F
Avg Low Temp
46°F
299 days✓
Sunny Days / Year
278 days
8"
Annual Rainfall
10"
Who should choose
Phoenix, AZ
Phoenix is a city in Arizona with a population of 1,608,139.
Read full Phoenix guide →Who should choose
Albuquerque, NM
Albuquerque is a city in New Mexico with a population of 564,559.
Read full Albuquerque guide →Phoenix vs Albuquerque — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Phoenix or Albuquerque?
Arizona has a 2.50% state income tax. New Mexico has a 5.90% state income tax. Phoenix wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Phoenix and Albuquerque?
Phoenix gets 299 sunny days/year. Albuquerque gets 278 sunny days/year. Avg high in Phoenix: 86°F. Avg high in Albuquerque: 70°F
Which city is better for families — Phoenix or Albuquerque?
Phoenix. 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.