Moving from Amarillo to Durham (2026)

Durham has a COL index of 102 vs 80 for Amarillo (100 = US average). Expect to pay about 28% more for the same lifestyle.

Pay ~$1,081 more/mo
on rent + taxes ยท $75K salary baseline

Change cities

Key differences

COL index
80 โ†’ 102
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$950 โ†’ $1,750
per month
State tax
None โ†’ 4.5%
income tax
COL difference
80 โ†’ 102
28% more expensive

Salary needed in Durham to match your Amarillo lifestyle

Based on the 28% cost of living increase between the two cities.

Your salary in AmarilloEquivalent in Durham
$40K$51,000
$50K$63,750
$60K$76,500
$75K$95,625
$80K$102,000
$100K$127,500
$120K$153,000
$150K$191,250

๐Ÿ’ต Household income (before tax)

$75K
$
$30K$300K
Pay ~$857/mo moreon core expenses at $75K

Monthly budget at $75K โ€” Amarillo vs Durham

ExpenseAmarilloDurham
Monthly take-home$4,741$4,459
1BR rent$950$1,750
Groceries$346$372
Transport$38$82
Utilities$170$155
Internet$60$62
Left after essentials$3,177$2,038

Frequently asked questions

Is Durham cheaper than Amarillo?

No. Durham has a cost of living index of 102 vs 80 for Amarillo (100 = US average). That's about 28% more expensive.

How much will I save moving from Amarillo to Durham?

On a $75K salary, core expenses in Durham run about $1,081/month more than Amarillo. Factor this into your salary negotiation when relocating.

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

To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Amarillo, you'd need roughly $95,625/year in Durham. This is based on the overall COL index difference.

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