Moving from New Orleans to Fayetteville (2026)

Fayetteville has a COL index of 86 vs 95 for New Orleans (100 = US average). You'd pay about 9% less for the same lifestyle.

Save ~$147/mo
on core expenses · $75K salary baseline

Key differences

COL index
9586
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$1,400$1,300
per month
State tax
4.3%4.4%
income tax
Take-home at $75K
$4,472$4,466
per month

Salary needed in Fayetteville to match your New Orleans lifestyle

Based on the 9% cost of living decrease between the two cities.

Your salary in New OrleansEquivalent in Fayetteville
$40K$36,211
$50K$45,263
$60K$54,316
$75K$67,895
$80K$72,421
$100K$90,526
$120K$108,632
$150K$135,789

Monthly budget at $75K — New Orleans vs Fayetteville

ExpenseNew OrleansFayetteville
Monthly take-home$4,472$4,466
1BR rent$1,400$1,300
Groceries$372$361
Transport$55$42
Utilities$185$162
Internet$60$60
Left after essentials$2,400$2,541

Frequently asked questions

Is Fayetteville cheaper than New Orleans?

Yes. Fayetteville has a cost of living index of 86 vs 95 for New Orleans (100 = US average). That's about 9% cheaper.

How much will I save moving from New Orleans to Fayetteville?

On a $75K salary, moving from New Orleans to Fayetteville could save roughly $147/month on core expenses. That's ~$1,764/year.

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

To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in New Orleans, you'd need roughly $67,895/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