Is Albuquerque or San Francisco more affordable?
Albuquerque has a median rent of $1,100/month, while San Francisco is $2,130/month. Albuquerque is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Albuquerque, NM vs San Francisco, CA
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Albuquerque and San Francisco.
4
Albuquerque wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
1
San Francisco wins
NM
Albuquerque
vs
CA
San Francisco
Overview
564,559
Population
865,933
$51,912
Median Income
+143.1%$126,187✓
Cost of Living
$1,100✓
Median Rent / mo
+93.6%$2,130
$255,000✓
Median Home Price
+368.4%$1,194,500
25%
Rent-to-Income %
20%
Taxes
5.90%✓
State Income Tax
13.30%
7.88%
Local Tax Rate
0.00%
Climate & Weather
70°F
Avg High Temp
55.62°F
46°F
Avg Low Temp
48.76°F
278 days✓
Sunny Days / Year
N/A
10"
Annual Rainfall
N/A
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 Francisco, CA
San Francisco is a city in California with a population of 865,933.
Read full San Francisco guide →Albuquerque vs San Francisco — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Albuquerque or San Francisco?
New Mexico has a 5.90% state income tax. California has a 13.30% state income tax. Albuquerque wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Albuquerque and San Francisco?
Albuquerque gets 278 sunny days/year. Avg high in Albuquerque: 70°F. Avg high in San Francisco: 55.62°F
Which city is better for families — Albuquerque or San Francisco?
Albuquerque. San Francisco. 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.