Is Tucson or Albuquerque more affordable?
Tucson has a median rent of $1,000/month, while Albuquerque is $1,100/month. Tucson is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Tucson, AZ vs Albuquerque, NM
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Tucson and Albuquerque.
4
Tucson wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
1
Albuquerque wins
AZ
Tucson
vs
NM
Albuquerque
Overview
546,574
Population
564,559
$42,672
Median Income
+21.7%$51,912✓
Cost of Living
$1,000✓
Median Rent / mo
+10.0%$1,100
$250,000✓
Median Home Price
+2.0%$255,000
28%
Rent-to-Income %
25%
Taxes
2.50%✓
State Income Tax
5.90%
8.70%
Local Tax Rate
7.88%
Climate & Weather
80°F
Avg High Temp
70°F
53°F
Avg Low Temp
46°F
286 days✓
Sunny Days / Year
278 days
12"
Annual Rainfall
10"
Who should choose
Tucson, AZ
Tucson is a city in Arizona with a population of 546,574.
Read full Tucson guide →Who should choose
Albuquerque, NM
Albuquerque is a city in New Mexico with a population of 564,559.
Read full Albuquerque guide →Tucson vs Albuquerque — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Tucson or Albuquerque?
Arizona has a 2.50% state income tax. New Mexico has a 5.90% state income tax. Tucson wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Tucson and Albuquerque?
Tucson gets 286 sunny days/year. Albuquerque gets 278 sunny days/year. Avg high in Tucson: 80°F. Avg high in Albuquerque: 70°F
Which city is better for families — Tucson or Albuquerque?
Tucson. 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.