Moving from Columbus to Fayetteville (2026)

Fayetteville has a COL index of 86 vs 83 for Columbus (100 = US average). Expect to pay about 4% more for the same lifestyle.

Pay ~$214 more/mo
on core expenses · $75K salary baseline

Key differences

COL index
8386
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$1,100$1,300
per month
State tax
5.5%4.4%
income tax
Take-home at $75K
$4,397$4,466
per month

Salary needed in Fayetteville to match your Columbus lifestyle

Based on the 4% cost of living increase between the two cities.

Your salary in ColumbusEquivalent in Fayetteville
$40K$41,446
$50K$51,807
$60K$62,169
$75K$77,711
$80K$82,892
$100K$103,614
$120K$124,337
$150K$155,422

Monthly budget at $75K — Columbus vs Fayetteville

ExpenseColumbusFayetteville
Monthly take-home$4,397$4,466
1BR rent$1,100$1,300
Groceries$353$361
Transport$40$42
Utilities$160$162
Internet$58$60
Left after essentials$2,686$2,541

Frequently asked questions

Is Fayetteville cheaper than Columbus?

No. Fayetteville has a cost of living index of 86 vs 83 for Columbus (100 = US average). That's about 4% more expensive.

How much will I save moving from Columbus to Fayetteville?

On a $75K salary, core expenses in Fayetteville run about $214/month more than Columbus. Factor this into your salary negotiation when relocating.

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

To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Columbus, you'd need roughly $77,711/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