Cost of Living in Bernalillo County, New Mexico
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Bernalillo County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Bernalillo County, New Mexico
Bernalillo's rent burden slightly above national norms
Renters in Bernalillo County spend 19.6% of their income on rent, just slightly above the national benchmark of roughly 19%. While the county's median household income of $66,514 trails the national average of $74,755 by 11%, housing costs remain relatively stable for a mid-sized metro area.
Highest-earning county leads state in affordability
Bernalillo ranks as one of New Mexico's most affordable counties despite having the state's strongest median household income at $66,514. With a rent-to-income ratio of 19.6% matching the state average of 19.4%, residents here benefit from both higher wages and competitive housing costs.
Albuquerque rents top most of rural New Mexico
Bernalillo's median rent of $1,087 significantly exceeds rural neighbors like Cibola County ($724) and Colfax County ($704), reflecting Albuquerque's status as the state's largest metro. However, renters pay the cost for proximity to jobs and services—Bernalillo's median home value of $268,500 is also highest among peer counties.
Where your dollar goes in Bernalillo
Bernalillo renters allocate $1,087 monthly while homeowners spend $1,192—a modest 9% premium for ownership. With median household income at $66,514 annually, housing consumes roughly one-fifth of most residents' paychecks regardless of tenure.
Consider Bernalillo for metro access and stability
If urban job markets and cultural amenities matter more than ultra-low costs, Bernalillo offers reasonable housing burdens paired with the state's strongest income potential. Compare this against smaller rural counties if your priority is minimizing housing expenses in a quieter setting.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Bernalillo County
Rent Burden
19.6%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,552
per month
Owner Cost Burden
21.5%
of gross income
The median home in Bernalillo County may be a stretch
Median home value is $268,500. Estimated monthly cost: $2,144 vs. your max of $1,552.
Rent Affordability Guide
Frequently Asked Questions
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See Today's RatesData: U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Survey (ACS) 5-Year Estimates (2019-2023) — Informational only. Not financial or legal advice.