Moving from Montgomery to Scottsdale (2026)

Scottsdale has a COL index of 117 vs 81 for Montgomery (100 = US average). Expect to pay about 44% more for the same lifestyle.

Pay ~$1,056 more/mo
on core expenses · $75K salary baseline

Key differences

COL index
81117
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$1,050$2,000
per month
State tax
5%2.5%
income tax
Take-home at $75K
$4,428$4,584
per month

Salary needed in Scottsdale to match your Montgomery lifestyle

Based on the 44% cost of living increase between the two cities.

Your salary in MontgomeryEquivalent in Scottsdale
$40K$57,778
$50K$72,222
$60K$86,667
$75K$108,333
$80K$115,556
$100K$144,444
$120K$173,333
$150K$216,667

Monthly budget at $75K — Montgomery vs Scottsdale

ExpenseMontgomeryScottsdale
Monthly take-home$4,428$4,584
1BR rent$1,050$2,000
Groceries$353$395
Transport$38$50
Utilities$170$215
Internet$58$65
Left after essentials$2,759$1,859

Frequently asked questions

Is Scottsdale cheaper than Montgomery?

No. Scottsdale has a cost of living index of 117 vs 81 for Montgomery (100 = US average). That's about 44% more expensive.

How much will I save moving from Montgomery to Scottsdale?

On a $75K salary, core expenses in Scottsdale run about $1,056/month more than Montgomery. Factor this into your salary negotiation when relocating.

What salary do I need in Scottsdale to match my Montgomery lifestyle?

To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Montgomery, you'd need roughly $108,333/year in Scottsdale. 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