Moving from Austin to Flagstaff (2026)
Flagstaff has a COL index of 102 vs 122 for Austin (100 = US average). You'd pay about 16% less for the same lifestyle.
Key differences
Salary needed in Flagstaff to match your Austin lifestyle
Based on the 16% cost of living decrease between the two cities.
| Your salary in Austin | Equivalent in Flagstaff |
|---|---|
| $40K | $33,443 |
| $50K | $41,803 |
| $60K | $50,164 |
| $75K | $62,705 |
| $80K | $66,885 |
| $100K | $83,607 |
| $120K | $100,328 |
| $150K | $125,410 |
Monthly budget at $75K — Austin vs Flagstaff
| Expense | Austin | Flagstaff |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly take-home | $4,741 | $4,584 |
| 1BR rent | $1,800 | $1,650 |
| Groceries | $372 | $384 |
| Transport | $50 | $45 |
| Utilities | $170 | $195 |
| Internet | $65 | $65 |
| Left after essentials | $2,284 | $2,245 |
Frequently asked questions
Is Flagstaff cheaper than Austin?
Yes. Flagstaff has a cost of living index of 102 vs 122 for Austin (100 = US average). That's about 16% cheaper.
How much will I save moving from Austin to Flagstaff?
On a $75K salary, moving from Austin to Flagstaff could save roughly $118/month on core expenses. That's ~$1,416/year.
What salary do I need in Flagstaff to match my Austin lifestyle?
To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Austin, you'd need roughly $62,705/year in Flagstaff. 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