Is Salt Lake City or Albuquerque more affordable?
Salt Lake City has a median rent of $1,450/month, while Albuquerque is $1,100/month. Albuquerque is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Salt Lake City, UT vs Albuquerque, NM
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Salt Lake City and Albuquerque.
2
Salt Lake City wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
3
Albuquerque wins
UT
Salt Lake City
vs
NM
Albuquerque
Overview
199,723
Population
564,559
$58,000✓
Median Income
-10.5%$51,912
Cost of Living
$1,450
Median Rent / mo
-24.1%$1,100✓
$480,000
Median Home Price
-46.9%$255,000✓
30%
Rent-to-Income %
25%
Taxes
4.65%✓
State Income Tax
5.90%
7.75%
Local Tax Rate
7.88%
Climate & Weather
65°F
Avg High Temp
70°F
41°F
Avg Low Temp
46°F
222 days
Sunny Days / Year
278 days✓
17"
Annual Rainfall
10"
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 →Who should choose
Albuquerque, NM
Albuquerque is a city in New Mexico with a population of 564,559.
Read full Albuquerque guide →Salt Lake City vs Albuquerque — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Salt Lake City or Albuquerque?
Utah has a 4.65% state income tax. New Mexico has a 5.90% state income tax. Salt Lake City wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Salt Lake City and Albuquerque?
Salt Lake City gets 222 sunny days/year. Albuquerque gets 278 sunny days/year. Avg high in Salt Lake City: 65°F. Avg high in Albuquerque: 70°F
Which city is better for families — Salt Lake City or Albuquerque?
Salt Lake City. 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.