Moving from Mobile to Fayetteville (2026)

Fayetteville has a COL index of 86 vs 82 for Mobile (100 = US average). Expect to pay about 5% more for the same lifestyle.

Pay ~$204 more/mo
on core expenses · $75K salary baseline

Key differences

COL index
8286
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$1,100$1,300
per month
State tax
5%4.4%
income tax
Take-home at $75K
$4,428$4,466
per month

Salary needed in Fayetteville to match your Mobile lifestyle

Based on the 5% cost of living increase between the two cities.

Your salary in MobileEquivalent in Fayetteville
$40K$41,951
$50K$52,439
$60K$62,927
$75K$78,659
$80K$83,902
$100K$104,878
$120K$125,854
$150K$157,317

Monthly budget at $75K — Mobile vs Fayetteville

ExpenseMobileFayetteville
Monthly take-home$4,428$4,466
1BR rent$1,100$1,300
Groceries$353$361
Transport$38$42
Utilities$172$162
Internet$58$60
Left after essentials$2,707$2,541

Frequently asked questions

Is Fayetteville cheaper than Mobile?

No. Fayetteville has a cost of living index of 86 vs 82 for Mobile (100 = US average). That's about 5% more expensive.

How much will I save moving from Mobile to Fayetteville?

On a $75K salary, core expenses in Fayetteville run about $204/month more than Mobile. Factor this into your salary negotiation when relocating.

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

To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Mobile, you'd need roughly $78,659/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