Moving from Atlanta to Fort Collins (2026)

Fort Collins has a COL index of 99 vs 110 for Atlanta (100 = US average). You'd pay about 10% less for the same lifestyle.

Save ~$252/mo
on core expenses · $75K salary baseline

Key differences

COL index
11099
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$1,900$1,700
per month
State tax
5.5%4.4%
income tax
Take-home at $75K
$4,397$4,466
per month

Salary needed in Fort Collins to match your Atlanta lifestyle

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

Your salary in AtlantaEquivalent in Fort Collins
$40K$36,000
$50K$45,000
$60K$54,000
$75K$67,500
$80K$72,000
$100K$90,000
$120K$108,000
$150K$135,000

Monthly budget at $75K — Atlanta vs Fort Collins

ExpenseAtlantaFort Collins
Monthly take-home$4,397$4,466
1BR rent$1,900$1,700
Groceries$376$384
Transport$95$55
Utilities$165$140
Internet$60$65
Left after essentials$1,801$2,122

Frequently asked questions

Is Fort Collins cheaper than Atlanta?

Yes. Fort Collins has a cost of living index of 99 vs 110 for Atlanta (100 = US average). That's about 10% cheaper.

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

On a $75K salary, moving from Atlanta to Fort Collins could save roughly $252/month on core expenses. That's ~$3,024/year.

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

To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Atlanta, you'd need roughly $67,500/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