Moving from Austin to Fayetteville (2026)
Fayetteville has a COL index of 86 vs 122 for Austin (100 = US average). You'd pay about 30% less for the same lifestyle.
Key differences
Salary needed in Fayetteville to match your Austin lifestyle
Based on the 30% cost of living decrease between the two cities.
| Your salary in Austin | Equivalent in Fayetteville |
|---|---|
| $40K | $28,197 |
| $50K | $35,246 |
| $60K | $42,295 |
| $75K | $52,869 |
| $80K | $56,393 |
| $100K | $70,492 |
| $120K | $84,590 |
| $150K | $105,738 |
Monthly budget at $75K — Austin vs Fayetteville
| Expense | Austin | Fayetteville |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly take-home | $4,741 | $4,466 |
| 1BR rent | $1,800 | $1,300 |
| Groceries | $372 | $361 |
| Transport | $50 | $42 |
| Utilities | $170 | $162 |
| Internet | $65 | $60 |
| Left after essentials | $2,284 | $2,541 |
Frequently asked questions
Is Fayetteville cheaper than Austin?
Yes. Fayetteville has a cost of living index of 86 vs 122 for Austin (100 = US average). That's about 30% cheaper.
How much will I save moving from Austin to Fayetteville?
On a $75K salary, moving from Austin to Fayetteville could save roughly $532/month on core expenses. That's ~$6,384/year.
What salary do I need in Fayetteville to match my Austin lifestyle?
To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Austin, you'd need roughly $52,869/year in Fayetteville. 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