Moving from Denver to Durham (2026)
Durham has a COL index of 102 vs 122 for Denver (100 = US average). You'd pay about 16% less for the same lifestyle.
Save ~$286/mo
on core expenses · $75K salary baseline
Key differences
COL index
122102
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$2,000$1,750
per month
State tax
4.4%4.5%
income tax
Take-home at $75K
$4,466$4,459
per month
Salary needed in Durham to match your Denver lifestyle
Based on the 16% cost of living decrease between the two cities.
| Your salary in Denver | Equivalent in Durham |
|---|---|
| $40K | $33,443 |
| $50K | $41,803 |
| $60K | $50,164 |
| $75K | $62,705 |
| $80K | $66,885 |
| $100K | $83,607 |
| $120K | $100,328 |
| $150K | $125,410 |
Monthly budget at $75K — Denver vs Durham
| Expense | Denver | Durham |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly take-home | $4,466 | $4,459 |
| 1BR rent | $2,000 | $1,750 |
| Groceries | $388 | $372 |
| Transport | $114 | $82 |
| Utilities | $140 | $155 |
| Internet | $65 | $62 |
| Left after essentials | $1,759 | $2,038 |
Frequently asked questions
Is Durham cheaper than Denver?
Yes. Durham has a cost of living index of 102 vs 122 for Denver (100 = US average). That's about 16% cheaper.
How much will I save moving from Denver to Durham?
On a $75K salary, moving from Denver to Durham could save roughly $286/month on core expenses. That's ~$3,432/year.
What salary do I need in Durham to match my Denver lifestyle?
To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Denver, you'd need roughly $62,705/year in Durham. This is based on the overall COL index difference between the two cities.
Moving from Durham to DenverDenver vs Durham — full comparisonDenver cost of livingDurham cost of living
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