7. Albuquerque, NM
Although the cost of living in Albuquerque is a bit below the national average, the property taxes here are the highest in the state. Home prices exceed the national average, but buyers get less for their hard-earned money. About 16% of residents live below the poverty level. The biggest problem in Albuquerque is crime. An uptick in murders in 2022 has led this city to come under serious scrutiny by the FBI.
Unemployment rate: 3.8%
Median household income: $53,936
Walk Score ranking: 43 (car dependent)
8. New York City, NY
The Big Apple may have a lot of amenities to offer, but it's also one of the country's most expensive places to live. The average rent is just over $3600 per month. While individual salaries may seem higher than those in other American cities, the increased cost of living takes bigger chunks out of paychecks. The percentage of residents living below the poverty level in NYC falls just below 16%.
Unemployment rate: 3.9%
Median household income: $89,812
Walk Score ranking: 88 (very walkable)
