Moving from Amarillo to Fort Collins (2026)

Fort Collins has a COL index of 99 vs 80 for Amarillo (100 = US average). Expect to pay about 24% more for the same lifestyle.

Pay ~$780 more/mo
on core expenses · $75K salary baseline

Key differences

COL index
8099
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$950$1,700
per month
State tax
None4.4%
income tax
Take-home at $75K
$4,741$4,466
per month

Salary needed in Fort Collins to match your Amarillo lifestyle

Based on the 24% cost of living increase between the two cities.

Your salary in AmarilloEquivalent in Fort Collins
$40K$49,500
$50K$61,875
$60K$74,250
$75K$92,813
$80K$99,000
$100K$123,750
$120K$148,500
$150K$185,625

Monthly budget at $75K — Amarillo vs Fort Collins

ExpenseAmarilloFort Collins
Monthly take-home$4,741$4,466
1BR rent$950$1,700
Groceries$346$384
Transport$38$55
Utilities$170$140
Internet$60$65
Left after essentials$3,177$2,122

Frequently asked questions

Is Fort Collins cheaper than Amarillo?

No. Fort Collins has a cost of living index of 99 vs 80 for Amarillo (100 = US average). That's about 24% more expensive.

How much will I save moving from Amarillo to Fort Collins?

On a $75K salary, core expenses in Fort Collins run about $780/month more than Amarillo. Factor this into your salary negotiation when relocating.

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

To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Amarillo, you'd need roughly $92,813/year in Fort Collins. 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