Moving from Durham to Phoenix (2026)
Phoenix has a COL index of 100 vs 102 for Durham (100 = US average). You'd pay about 2% less for the same lifestyle.
Save ~$218/mo
on core expenses · $75K salary baseline
Key differences
COL index
102100
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$1,750$1,500
per month
State tax
4.5%2.5%
income tax
Take-home at $75K
$4,459$4,584
per month
Salary needed in Phoenix to match your Durham lifestyle
Based on the 2% cost of living decrease between the two cities.
| Your salary in Durham | Equivalent in Phoenix |
|---|---|
| $40K | $39,216 |
| $50K | $49,020 |
| $60K | $58,824 |
| $75K | $73,529 |
| $80K | $78,431 |
| $100K | $98,039 |
| $120K | $117,647 |
| $150K | $147,059 |
Monthly budget at $75K — Durham vs Phoenix
| Expense | Durham | Phoenix |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly take-home | $4,459 | $4,584 |
| 1BR rent | $1,750 | $1,500 |
| Groceries | $372 | $369 |
| Transport | $82 | $64 |
| Utilities | $155 | $210 |
| Internet | $62 | $60 |
| Left after essentials | $2,038 | $2,381 |
Frequently asked questions
Is Phoenix cheaper than Durham?
Yes. Phoenix has a cost of living index of 100 vs 102 for Durham (100 = US average). That's about 2% cheaper.
How much will I save moving from Durham to Phoenix?
On a $75K salary, moving from Durham to Phoenix could save roughly $218/month on core expenses. That's ~$2,616/year.
What salary do I need in Phoenix to match my Durham lifestyle?
To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Durham, you'd need roughly $73,529/year in Phoenix. This is based on the overall COL index difference between the two cities.
Moving from Phoenix to DurhamDurham vs Phoenix — full comparisonDurham cost of livingPhoenix 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