Moving from Flagstaff to Phoenix (2026)

Phoenix has a COL index of 100 vs 102 for Flagstaff (100 = US average). You'd pay about 2% less for the same lifestyle.

Save ~$136/mo
on core expenses · $75K salary baseline

Key differences

COL index
102100
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$1,650$1,500
per month
State tax
2.5%2.5%
income tax
Take-home at $75K
$4,584$4,584
per month

Salary needed in Phoenix to match your Flagstaff lifestyle

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

Your salary in FlagstaffEquivalent 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 — Flagstaff vs Phoenix

ExpenseFlagstaffPhoenix
Monthly take-home$4,584$4,584
1BR rent$1,650$1,500
Groceries$384$369
Transport$45$64
Utilities$195$210
Internet$65$60
Left after essentials$2,245$2,381

Frequently asked questions

Is Phoenix cheaper than Flagstaff?

Yes. Phoenix has a cost of living index of 100 vs 102 for Flagstaff (100 = US average). That's about 2% cheaper.

How much will I save moving from Flagstaff to Phoenix?

On a $75K salary, moving from Flagstaff to Phoenix could save roughly $136/month on core expenses. That's ~$1,632/year.

What salary do I need in Phoenix to match my Flagstaff lifestyle?

To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Flagstaff, you'd need roughly $73,529/year in Phoenix. 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