Moving from Buffalo to Montgomery (2026)

Montgomery has a COL index of 81 vs 90 for Buffalo (100 = US average). You'd pay about 10% less for the same lifestyle.

Save ~$287/mo
on core expenses · $75K salary baseline

Key differences

COL index
9081
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$1,250$1,050
per month
State tax
6.9%5%
income tax
Take-home at $75K
$4,309$4,428
per month

Salary needed in Montgomery to match your Buffalo lifestyle

Based on the 10% cost of living decrease between the two cities.

Your salary in BuffaloEquivalent in Montgomery
$40K$36,000
$50K$45,000
$60K$54,000
$75K$67,500
$80K$72,000
$100K$90,000
$120K$108,000
$150K$135,000

Monthly budget at $75K — Buffalo vs Montgomery

ExpenseBuffaloMontgomery
Monthly take-home$4,309$4,428
1BR rent$1,250$1,050
Groceries$384$353
Transport$72$38
Utilities$185$170
Internet$65$58
Left after essentials$2,353$2,759

Frequently asked questions

Is Montgomery cheaper than Buffalo?

Yes. Montgomery has a cost of living index of 81 vs 90 for Buffalo (100 = US average). That's about 10% cheaper.

How much will I save moving from Buffalo to Montgomery?

On a $75K salary, moving from Buffalo to Montgomery could save roughly $287/month on core expenses. That's ~$3,444/year.

What salary do I need in Montgomery to match my Buffalo lifestyle?

To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Buffalo, you'd need roughly $67,500/year in Montgomery. 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