Moving from Charleston to Fayetteville (2026)

Fayetteville has a COL index of 84 vs 97 for Charleston (100 = US average). You'd pay about 13% less for the same lifestyle.

Save ~$755/mo
on core expenses · $75K salary baseline

Key differences

COL index
9784
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$1,900$1,200
per month
State tax
6.2%4.5%
income tax
Take-home at $75K
$4,353$4,459
per month

Salary needed in Fayetteville to match your Charleston lifestyle

Based on the 13% cost of living decrease between the two cities.

Your salary in CharlestonEquivalent in Fayetteville
$40K$34,639
$50K$43,299
$60K$51,959
$75K$64,948
$80K$69,278
$100K$86,598
$120K$103,918
$150K$129,897

Monthly budget at $75K — Charleston vs Fayetteville

ExpenseCharlestonFayetteville
Monthly take-home$4,353$4,459
1BR rent$1,900$1,200
Groceries$376$353
Transport$55$42
Utilities$162$148
Internet$63$58
Left after essentials$1,797$2,658

Frequently asked questions

Is Fayetteville cheaper than Charleston?

Yes. Fayetteville has a cost of living index of 84 vs 97 for Charleston (100 = US average). That's about 13% cheaper.

How much will I save moving from Charleston to Fayetteville?

On a $75K salary, moving from Charleston to Fayetteville could save roughly $755/month on core expenses. That's ~$9,060/year.

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

To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Charleston, you'd need roughly $64,948/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