Moving from Fargo to Montgomery (2026)
Montgomery has a COL index of 81 vs 89 for Fargo (100 = US average). You'd pay about 9% less for the same lifestyle.
Save ~$220/mo
on core expenses · $75K salary baseline
Key differences
COL index
8981
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$1,250$1,050
per month
State tax
2.5%5%
income tax
Take-home at $75K
$4,584$4,428
per month
Salary needed in Montgomery to match your Fargo lifestyle
Based on the 9% cost of living decrease between the two cities.
| Your salary in Fargo | Equivalent in Montgomery |
|---|---|
| $40K | $36,404 |
| $50K | $45,506 |
| $60K | $54,607 |
| $75K | $68,258 |
| $80K | $72,809 |
| $100K | $91,011 |
| $120K | $109,213 |
| $150K | $136,517 |
Monthly budget at $75K — Fargo vs Montgomery
| Expense | Fargo | Montgomery |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly take-home | $4,584 | $4,428 |
| 1BR rent | $1,250 | $1,050 |
| Groceries | $369 | $353 |
| Transport | $50 | $38 |
| Utilities | $155 | $170 |
| Internet | $65 | $58 |
| Left after essentials | $2,695 | $2,759 |
Frequently asked questions
Is Montgomery cheaper than Fargo?
Yes. Montgomery has a cost of living index of 81 vs 89 for Fargo (100 = US average). That's about 9% cheaper.
How much will I save moving from Fargo to Montgomery?
On a $75K salary, moving from Fargo to Montgomery could save roughly $220/month on core expenses. That's ~$2,640/year.
What salary do I need in Montgomery to match my Fargo lifestyle?
To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Fargo, you'd need roughly $68,258/year in Montgomery. This is based on the overall COL index difference between the two cities.
Moving from Montgomery to FargoFargo vs Montgomery — full comparisonFargo cost of livingMontgomery 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