Moving from Midland to Fort Wayne (2026)

Fort Wayne has a COL index of 81 vs 93 for Midland (100 = US average). You'd pay about 13% less for the same lifestyle.

Save ~$235/mo
on core expenses · $75K salary baseline

Key differences

COL index
9381
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$1,200$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 Midland lifestyle

Based on the 13% cost of living decrease between the two cities.

Your salary in MidlandEquivalent in Fort Wayne
$40K$34,839
$50K$43,548
$60K$52,258
$75K$65,323
$80K$69,677
$100K$87,097
$120K$104,516
$150K$130,645

Monthly budget at $75K — Midland vs Fort Wayne

ExpenseMidlandFort Wayne
Monthly take-home$4,741$4,541
1BR rent$1,200$1,000
Groceries$365$353
Transport$35$42
Utilities$178$155
Internet$65$58
Left after essentials$2,898$2,933

Frequently asked questions

Is Fort Wayne cheaper than Midland?

Yes. Fort Wayne has a cost of living index of 81 vs 93 for Midland (100 = US average). That's about 13% cheaper.

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

On a $75K salary, moving from Midland to Fort Wayne could save roughly $235/month on core expenses. That's ~$2,820/year.

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

To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Midland, you'd need roughly $65,323/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