Moving from Fort Collins to Phoenix (2026)

Phoenix has a COL index of 100 vs 99 for Fort Collins (100 = US average). Expect to pay about 1% more for the same lifestyle.

Pay ~$141 more/mo
on core expenses · $75K salary baseline

Key differences

COL index
99100
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$1,700$1,500
per month
State tax
4.4%2.5%
income tax
Take-home at $75K
$4,466$4,584
per month

Salary needed in Phoenix to match your Fort Collins lifestyle

Based on the 1% cost of living increase between the two cities.

Your salary in Fort CollinsEquivalent in Phoenix
$40K$40,404
$50K$50,505
$60K$60,606
$75K$75,758
$80K$80,808
$100K$101,010
$120K$121,212
$150K$151,515

Monthly budget at $75K — Fort Collins vs Phoenix

ExpenseFort CollinsPhoenix
Monthly take-home$4,466$4,584
1BR rent$1,700$1,500
Groceries$384$369
Transport$55$64
Utilities$140$210
Internet$65$60
Left after essentials$2,122$2,381

Frequently asked questions

Is Phoenix cheaper than Fort Collins?

No. Phoenix has a cost of living index of 100 vs 99 for Fort Collins (100 = US average). That's about 1% more expensive.

How much will I save moving from Fort Collins to Phoenix?

On a $75K salary, moving from Fort Collins to Phoenix could save roughly $141/month on core expenses. That's ~$1,692/year.

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

To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Fort Collins, you'd need roughly $75,758/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