Moving from Albuquerque to Amarillo (2026)

Amarillo has a COL index of 80 vs 89 for Albuquerque (100 = US average). You'd pay about 10% less for the same lifestyle.

Save ~$170/mo
on core expenses · $75K salary baseline

Key differences

COL index
8980
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$1,100$950
per month
State tax
4.9%None
income tax
Take-home at $75K
$4,434$4,741
per month

Salary needed in Amarillo to match your Albuquerque lifestyle

Based on the 10% cost of living decrease between the two cities.

Your salary in AlbuquerqueEquivalent in Amarillo
$40K$35,955
$50K$44,944
$60K$53,933
$75K$67,416
$80K$71,910
$100K$89,888
$120K$107,865
$150K$134,831

Monthly budget at $75K — Albuquerque vs Amarillo

ExpenseAlbuquerqueAmarillo
Monthly take-home$4,434$4,741
1BR rent$1,100$950
Groceries$361$346
Transport$48$38
Utilities$165$170
Internet$60$60
Left after essentials$2,700$3,177

Frequently asked questions

Is Amarillo cheaper than Albuquerque?

Yes. Amarillo has a cost of living index of 80 vs 89 for Albuquerque (100 = US average). That's about 10% cheaper.

How much will I save moving from Albuquerque to Amarillo?

On a $75K salary, moving from Albuquerque to Amarillo could save roughly $170/month on core expenses. That's ~$2,040/year.

What salary do I need in Amarillo to match my Albuquerque lifestyle?

To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Albuquerque, you'd need roughly $67,416/year in Amarillo. This is based on the overall COL index difference between the two cities.

Estimates based on Q1 2026 COL index and market data. Budget uses simplified federal/state tax rates at $75K. Zillow · BLS · Numbeo · For general guidance only