Moving from Lafayette to Montgomery (2026)
Montgomery has a COL index of 81 vs 85 for Lafayette (100 = US average). You'd pay about 5% less for the same lifestyle.
Key differences
Salary needed in Montgomery to match your Lafayette lifestyle
Based on the 5% cost of living decrease between the two cities.
| Your salary in Lafayette | Equivalent in Montgomery |
|---|---|
| $40K | $38,118 |
| $50K | $47,647 |
| $60K | $57,176 |
| $75K | $71,471 |
| $80K | $76,235 |
| $100K | $95,294 |
| $120K | $114,353 |
| $150K | $142,941 |
Monthly budget at $75K — Lafayette vs Montgomery
| Expense | Lafayette | Montgomery |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly take-home | $4,472 | $4,428 |
| 1BR rent | $1,100 | $1,050 |
| Groceries | $361 | $353 |
| Transport | $42 | $38 |
| Utilities | $208 | $170 |
| Internet | $58 | $58 |
| Left after essentials | $2,703 | $2,759 |
Frequently asked questions
Is Montgomery cheaper than Lafayette?
Yes. Montgomery has a cost of living index of 81 vs 85 for Lafayette (100 = US average). That's about 5% cheaper.
How much will I save moving from Lafayette to Montgomery?
On a $75K salary, moving from Lafayette to Montgomery could save roughly $100/month on core expenses. That's ~$1,200/year.
What salary do I need in Montgomery to match my Lafayette lifestyle?
To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Lafayette, you'd need roughly $71,471/year in Montgomery. 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