Moving from Boulder to Tampa (2026)

Tampa has a COL index of 104 vs 132 for Boulder (100 = US average). You'd pay about 21% less for the same lifestyle.

Save ~$299/mo
on core expenses · $75K salary baseline

Key differences

COL index
132104
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$2,300$2,000
per month
State tax
4.4%None
income tax
Take-home at $75K
$4,466$4,741
per month

Salary needed in Tampa to match your Boulder lifestyle

Based on the 21% cost of living decrease between the two cities.

Your salary in BoulderEquivalent in Tampa
$40K$31,515
$50K$39,394
$60K$47,273
$75K$59,091
$80K$63,030
$100K$78,788
$120K$94,545
$150K$118,182

Monthly budget at $75K — Boulder vs Tampa

ExpenseBoulderTampa
Monthly take-home$4,466$4,741
1BR rent$2,300$2,000
Groceries$414$376
Transport$80$65
Utilities$138$195
Internet$68$65
Left after essentials$1,466$2,040

Frequently asked questions

Is Tampa cheaper than Boulder?

Yes. Tampa has a cost of living index of 104 vs 132 for Boulder (100 = US average). That's about 21% cheaper.

How much will I save moving from Boulder to Tampa?

On a $75K salary, moving from Boulder to Tampa could save roughly $299/month on core expenses. That's ~$3,588/year.

What salary do I need in Tampa to match my Boulder lifestyle?

To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Boulder, you'd need roughly $59,091/year in Tampa. 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