Moving from Hartford to Austin (2026)

Austin has a COL index of 122 vs 107 for Hartford (100 = US average). Expect to pay about 14% more for the same lifestyle.

Pay ~$2 more/mo
on core expenses · $75K salary baseline

Key differences

COL index
107122
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$1,700$1,800
per month
State tax
7%None
income tax
Take-home at $75K
$4,303$4,741
per month

Salary needed in Austin to match your Hartford lifestyle

Based on the 14% cost of living increase between the two cities.

Your salary in HartfordEquivalent in Austin
$40K$45,607
$50K$57,009
$60K$68,411
$75K$85,514
$80K$91,215
$100K$114,019
$120K$136,822
$150K$171,028

Monthly budget at $75K — Hartford vs Austin

ExpenseHartfordAustin
Monthly take-home$4,303$4,741
1BR rent$1,700$1,800
Groceries$407$372
Transport$82$50
Utilities$200$170
Internet$70$65
Left after essentials$1,844$2,284

Frequently asked questions

Is Austin cheaper than Hartford?

No. Austin has a cost of living index of 122 vs 107 for Hartford (100 = US average). That's about 14% more expensive.

How much will I save moving from Hartford to Austin?

On a $75K salary, moving from Hartford to Austin could save roughly $2/month on core expenses. That's ~$24/year.

What salary do I need in Austin to match my Hartford lifestyle?

To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Hartford, you'd need roughly $85,514/year in Austin. 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