Moving from Laredo to Fort Wayne (2026)

Fort Wayne has a COL index of 81 vs 79 for Laredo (100 = US average). Expect to pay about 3% more for the same lifestyle.

Pay ~$59 more/mo
on core expenses · $75K salary baseline

Key differences

COL index
7981
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$950$1,000
per month
State tax
None3.2%
income tax
Take-home at $75K
$4,741$4,541
per month

Salary needed in Fort Wayne to match your Laredo lifestyle

Based on the 3% cost of living increase between the two cities.

Your salary in LaredoEquivalent in Fort Wayne
$40K$41,013
$50K$51,266
$60K$61,519
$75K$76,899
$80K$82,025
$100K$102,532
$120K$123,038
$150K$153,797

Monthly budget at $75K — Laredo vs Fort Wayne

ExpenseLaredoFort Wayne
Monthly take-home$4,741$4,541
1BR rent$950$1,000
Groceries$338$353
Transport$35$42
Utilities$168$155
Internet$58$58
Left after essentials$3,192$2,933

Frequently asked questions

Is Fort Wayne cheaper than Laredo?

No. Fort Wayne has a cost of living index of 81 vs 79 for Laredo (100 = US average). That's about 3% more expensive.

How much will I save moving from Laredo to Fort Wayne?

On a $75K salary, core expenses in Fort Wayne run about $59/month more than Laredo. Factor this into your salary negotiation when relocating.

What salary do I need in Fort Wayne to match my Laredo lifestyle?

To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Laredo, you'd need roughly $76,899/year in Fort Wayne. 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