Moving from Lafayette to Fayetteville (2026)

Fayetteville has a COL index of 84 vs 85 for Lafayette (100 = US average). You'd pay about 1% less for the same lifestyle.

Save ~$32/mo
on core expenses · $75K salary baseline

Key differences

COL index
8584
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$1,100$1,200
per month
State tax
4.3%4.5%
income tax
Take-home at $75K
$4,472$4,459
per month

Salary needed in Fayetteville to match your Lafayette lifestyle

Based on the 1% cost of living decrease between the two cities.

Your salary in LafayetteEquivalent in Fayetteville
$40K$39,529
$50K$49,412
$60K$59,294
$75K$74,118
$80K$79,059
$100K$98,824
$120K$118,588
$150K$148,235

Monthly budget at $75K — Lafayette vs Fayetteville

ExpenseLafayetteFayetteville
Monthly take-home$4,472$4,459
1BR rent$1,100$1,200
Groceries$361$353
Transport$42$42
Utilities$208$148
Internet$58$58
Left after essentials$2,703$2,658

Frequently asked questions

Is Fayetteville cheaper than Lafayette?

Yes. Fayetteville has a cost of living index of 84 vs 85 for Lafayette (100 = US average). That's about 1% cheaper.

How much will I save moving from Lafayette to Fayetteville?

On a $75K salary, core expenses in Fayetteville run about $32/month more than Lafayette. Factor this into your salary negotiation when relocating.

What salary do I need in Fayetteville to match my Lafayette lifestyle?

To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Lafayette, you'd need roughly $74,118/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