Moving from Austin to Fargo (2026)
Fargo has a COL index of 89 vs 122 for Austin (100 = US average). You'd pay about 27% less for the same lifestyle.
Save ~$568/mo
on core expenses · $75K salary baseline
Key differences
COL index
12289
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$1,800$1,250
per month
State tax
None2.5%
income tax
Take-home at $75K
$4,741$4,584
per month
Salary needed in Fargo to match your Austin lifestyle
Based on the 27% cost of living decrease between the two cities.
| Your salary in Austin | Equivalent in Fargo |
|---|---|
| $40K | $29,180 |
| $50K | $36,475 |
| $60K | $43,770 |
| $75K | $54,713 |
| $80K | $58,361 |
| $100K | $72,951 |
| $120K | $87,541 |
| $150K | $109,426 |
Monthly budget at $75K — Austin vs Fargo
| Expense | Austin | Fargo |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly take-home | $4,741 | $4,584 |
| 1BR rent | $1,800 | $1,250 |
| Groceries | $372 | $369 |
| Transport | $50 | $50 |
| Utilities | $170 | $155 |
| Internet | $65 | $65 |
| Left after essentials | $2,284 | $2,695 |
Frequently asked questions
Is Fargo cheaper than Austin?
Yes. Fargo has a cost of living index of 89 vs 122 for Austin (100 = US average). That's about 27% cheaper.
How much will I save moving from Austin to Fargo?
On a $75K salary, moving from Austin to Fargo could save roughly $568/month on core expenses. That's ~$6,816/year.
What salary do I need in Fargo to match my Austin lifestyle?
To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Austin, you'd need roughly $54,713/year in Fargo. This is based on the overall COL index difference between the two cities.
Moving from Fargo to AustinAustin vs Fargo — full comparisonAustin cost of livingFargo cost of living
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