Moving from Knoxville to Fargo (2026)

Fargo has a COL index of 89 vs 87 for Knoxville (100 = US average). Expect to pay about 2% more for the same lifestyle.

Pay ~$45 more/mo
on core expenses · $75K salary baseline

Key differences

COL index
8789
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$1,300$1,250
per month
State tax
None2.5%
income tax
Take-home at $75K
$4,741$4,584
per month

Salary needed in Fargo to match your Knoxville lifestyle

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

Your salary in KnoxvilleEquivalent in Fargo
$40K$40,920
$50K$51,149
$60K$61,379
$75K$76,724
$80K$81,839
$100K$102,299
$120K$122,759
$150K$153,448

Monthly budget at $75K — Knoxville vs Fargo

ExpenseKnoxvilleFargo
Monthly take-home$4,741$4,584
1BR rent$1,300$1,250
Groceries$361$369
Transport$45$50
Utilities$168$155
Internet$60$65
Left after essentials$2,807$2,695

Frequently asked questions

Is Fargo cheaper than Knoxville?

No. Fargo has a cost of living index of 89 vs 87 for Knoxville (100 = US average). That's about 2% more expensive.

How much will I save moving from Knoxville to Fargo?

On a $75K salary, moving from Knoxville to Fargo could save roughly $45/month on core expenses. That's ~$540/year.

What salary do I need in Fargo to match my Knoxville lifestyle?

To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Knoxville, you'd need roughly $76,724/year in Fargo. 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