Moving from Fort Lauderdale to Fayetteville (2026)
Fayetteville has a COL index of 84 vs 120 for Fort Lauderdale (100 = US average). You'd pay about 30% less for the same lifestyle.
Key differences
Salary needed in Fayetteville to match your Fort Lauderdale lifestyle
Based on the 30% cost of living decrease between the two cities.
| Your salary in Fort Lauderdale | Equivalent in Fayetteville |
|---|---|
| $40K | $28,000 |
| $50K | $35,000 |
| $60K | $42,000 |
| $75K | $52,500 |
| $80K | $56,000 |
| $100K | $70,000 |
| $120K | $84,000 |
| $150K | $105,000 |
Monthly budget at $75K — Fort Lauderdale vs Fayetteville
| Expense | Fort Lauderdale | Fayetteville |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly take-home | $4,741 | $4,459 |
| 1BR rent | $2,600 | $1,200 |
| Groceries | $407 | $353 |
| Transport | $112 | $42 |
| Utilities | $195 | $148 |
| Internet | $70 | $58 |
| Left after essentials | $1,357 | $2,658 |
Frequently asked questions
Is Fayetteville cheaper than Fort Lauderdale?
Yes. Fayetteville has a cost of living index of 84 vs 120 for Fort Lauderdale (100 = US average). That's about 30% cheaper.
How much will I save moving from Fort Lauderdale to Fayetteville?
On a $75K salary, moving from Fort Lauderdale to Fayetteville could save roughly $1,583/month on core expenses. That's ~$18,996/year.
What salary do I need in Fayetteville to match my Fort Lauderdale lifestyle?
To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Fort Lauderdale, you'd need roughly $52,500/year in Fayetteville. 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