Moving from Fayetteville to Huntsville (2026)

Huntsville has a COL index of 88 vs 86 for Fayetteville (100 = US average). Expect to pay about 2% more for the same lifestyle.

Pay ~$6 more/mo
on core expenses · $75K salary baseline

Key differences

COL index
8688
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$1,300$1,300
per month
State tax
4.4%5%
income tax
Take-home at $75K
$4,466$4,428
per month

Salary needed in Huntsville to match your Fayetteville lifestyle

Based on the 2% cost of living increase between the two cities.

Your salary in FayettevilleEquivalent in Huntsville
$40K$40,930
$50K$51,163
$60K$61,395
$75K$76,744
$80K$81,860
$100K$102,326
$120K$122,791
$150K$153,488

Monthly budget at $75K — Fayetteville vs Huntsville

ExpenseFayettevilleHuntsville
Monthly take-home$4,466$4,428
1BR rent$1,300$1,300
Groceries$361$365
Transport$42$38
Utilities$162$168
Internet$60$60
Left after essentials$2,541$2,497

Frequently asked questions

Is Huntsville cheaper than Fayetteville?

No. Huntsville has a cost of living index of 88 vs 86 for Fayetteville (100 = US average). That's about 2% more expensive.

How much will I save moving from Fayetteville to Huntsville?

On a $75K salary, core expenses in Huntsville run about $6/month more than Fayetteville. Factor this into your salary negotiation when relocating.

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

To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Fayetteville, you'd need roughly $76,744/year in Huntsville. 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