Moving from Hartford to Durham (2026)

Durham has a COL index of 102 vs 107 for Hartford (100 = US average). You'd pay about 5% less for the same lifestyle.

Save ~$38/mo
on core expenses · $75K salary baseline

Key differences

COL index
107102
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$1,700$1,750
per month
State tax
7%4.5%
income tax
Take-home at $75K
$4,303$4,459
per month

Salary needed in Durham to match your Hartford lifestyle

Based on the 5% cost of living decrease between the two cities.

Your salary in HartfordEquivalent in Durham
$40K$38,131
$50K$47,664
$60K$57,196
$75K$71,495
$80K$76,262
$100K$95,327
$120K$114,393
$150K$142,991

Monthly budget at $75K — Hartford vs Durham

ExpenseHartfordDurham
Monthly take-home$4,303$4,459
1BR rent$1,700$1,750
Groceries$407$372
Transport$82$82
Utilities$200$155
Internet$70$62
Left after essentials$1,844$2,038

Frequently asked questions

Is Durham cheaper than Hartford?

Yes. Durham has a cost of living index of 102 vs 107 for Hartford (100 = US average). That's about 5% cheaper.

How much will I save moving from Hartford to Durham?

On a $75K salary, moving from Hartford to Durham could save roughly $38/month on core expenses. That's ~$456/year.

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

To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Hartford, you'd need roughly $71,495/year in Durham. 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