Moving from Bismarck to Fayetteville (2026)

Fayetteville has a COL index of 84 vs 87 for Bismarck (100 = US average). You'd pay about 3% less for the same lifestyle.

Save ~$23/mo
on core expenses · $75K salary baseline

Key differences

COL index
8784
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$1,150$1,200
per month
State tax
2.5%4.5%
income tax
Take-home at $75K
$4,584$4,459
per month

Salary needed in Fayetteville to match your Bismarck lifestyle

Based on the 3% cost of living decrease between the two cities.

Your salary in BismarckEquivalent in Fayetteville
$40K$38,621
$50K$48,276
$60K$57,931
$75K$72,414
$80K$77,241
$100K$96,552
$120K$115,862
$150K$144,828

Monthly budget at $75K — Bismarck vs Fayetteville

ExpenseBismarckFayetteville
Monthly take-home$4,584$4,459
1BR rent$1,150$1,200
Groceries$369$353
Transport$42$42
Utilities$152$148
Internet$65$58
Left after essentials$2,806$2,658

Frequently asked questions

Is Fayetteville cheaper than Bismarck?

Yes. Fayetteville has a cost of living index of 84 vs 87 for Bismarck (100 = US average). That's about 3% cheaper.

How much will I save moving from Bismarck to Fayetteville?

On a $75K salary, core expenses in Fayetteville run about $23/month more than Bismarck. Factor this into your salary negotiation when relocating.

What salary do I need in Fayetteville to match my Bismarck lifestyle?

To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Bismarck, you'd need roughly $72,414/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