Moving from Fayetteville to Montgomery (2026)

Montgomery has a COL index of 81 vs 84 for Fayetteville (100 = US average). You'd pay about 4% less for the same lifestyle.

Save ~$132/mo
on core expenses · $75K salary baseline

Key differences

COL index
8481
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$1,200$1,050
per month
State tax
4.5%5%
income tax
Take-home at $75K
$4,459$4,428
per month

Salary needed in Montgomery to match your Fayetteville lifestyle

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

Your salary in FayettevilleEquivalent in Montgomery
$40K$38,571
$50K$48,214
$60K$57,857
$75K$72,321
$80K$77,143
$100K$96,429
$120K$115,714
$150K$144,643

Monthly budget at $75K — Fayetteville vs Montgomery

ExpenseFayettevilleMontgomery
Monthly take-home$4,459$4,428
1BR rent$1,200$1,050
Groceries$353$353
Transport$42$38
Utilities$148$170
Internet$58$58
Left after essentials$2,658$2,759

Frequently asked questions

Is Montgomery cheaper than Fayetteville?

Yes. Montgomery has a cost of living index of 81 vs 84 for Fayetteville (100 = US average). That's about 4% cheaper.

How much will I save moving from Fayetteville to Montgomery?

On a $75K salary, moving from Fayetteville to Montgomery could save roughly $132/month on core expenses. That's ~$1,584/year.

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

To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Fayetteville, you'd need roughly $72,321/year in Montgomery. 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