Moving from Fort Lauderdale to Denver (2026)

Denver has a COL index of 122 vs 120 for Fort Lauderdale (100 = US average). Expect to pay about 2% more for the same lifestyle.

Pay ~$677 more/mo
on core expenses · $75K salary baseline

Key differences

COL index
120122
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$2,600$2,000
per month
State tax
None4.4%
income tax
Take-home at $75K
$4,741$4,466
per month

Salary needed in Denver to match your Fort Lauderdale lifestyle

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

Your salary in Fort LauderdaleEquivalent in Denver
$40K$40,667
$50K$50,833
$60K$61,000
$75K$76,250
$80K$81,333
$100K$101,667
$120K$122,000
$150K$152,500

Monthly budget at $75K — Fort Lauderdale vs Denver

ExpenseFort LauderdaleDenver
Monthly take-home$4,741$4,466
1BR rent$2,600$2,000
Groceries$407$388
Transport$112$114
Utilities$195$140
Internet$70$65
Left after essentials$1,357$1,759

Frequently asked questions

Is Denver cheaper than Fort Lauderdale?

No. Denver has a cost of living index of 122 vs 120 for Fort Lauderdale (100 = US average). That's about 2% more expensive.

How much will I save moving from Fort Lauderdale to Denver?

On a $75K salary, moving from Fort Lauderdale to Denver could save roughly $677/month on core expenses. That's ~$8,124/year.

What salary do I need in Denver to match my Fort Lauderdale lifestyle?

To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Fort Lauderdale, you'd need roughly $76,250/year in Denver. 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