Is Albuquerque or San Diego more affordable?
Albuquerque has a median rent of $1,100/month, while San Diego is $2,100/month. Albuquerque is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Albuquerque, NM vs San Diego, CA
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Albuquerque and San Diego.
4
Albuquerque wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
1
San Diego wins
NM
Albuquerque
vs
CA
San Diego
Overview
564,559
Population
1,386,932
$51,912
Median Income
+53.5%$79,685✓
Cost of Living
$1,100✓
Median Rent / mo
+90.9%$2,100
$255,000✓
Median Home Price
+205.9%$780,000
25%
Rent-to-Income %
32%
Taxes
5.90%✓
State Income Tax
9.30%
7.88%
Local Tax Rate
7.75%
Climate & Weather
70°F
Avg High Temp
70°F
46°F
Avg Low Temp
55°F
278 days✓
Sunny Days / Year
266 days
10"
Annual Rainfall
12"
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
San Diego, CA
San Diego is a city in California with a population of 1,386,932.
Read full San Diego guide →Albuquerque vs San Diego — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Albuquerque or San Diego?
New Mexico has a 5.90% state income tax. California has a 9.30% state income tax. Albuquerque wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Albuquerque and San Diego?
Albuquerque gets 278 sunny days/year. San Diego gets 266 sunny days/year. Avg high in Albuquerque: 70°F. Avg high in San Diego: 70°F
Which city is better for families — Albuquerque or San Diego?
Albuquerque. San Diego. 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.