Moving from Penang to Flagstaff (2026)

Flagstaff has a COL index of 102 vs 44 for Penang (100 = US average). Expect to pay about 134% more for the same lifestyle.

Pay ~$1,346 more/mo
on rent + taxes ยท $75K salary baseline

Change cities

Key differences

COL index
44 โ†’ 102
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$460 โ†’ $1,650
per month
State tax
None โ†’ 2.5%
income tax
COL difference
44 โ†’ 102
134% more expensive

Salary needed in Flagstaff to match your Penang lifestyle

Based on the 134% cost of living increase between the two cities.

Your salary in PenangEquivalent in Flagstaff
$40K$93,793
$50K$117,241
$60K$140,690
$75K$175,862
$80K$187,586
$100K$234,483
$120K$281,379
$150K$351,724

Adjust your salary

Pay ~$1,272/mo moreon core expenses at $75K

Monthly budget at $75K โ€” Penang vs Flagstaff

ExpensePenangFlagstaff
Monthly take-home$4,741$4,584
1BR rent$460$1,650
Groceries$380$384
Transport$150$45
Utilities$55$195
Internet$22$65
Left after essentials$3,674$2,245

Frequently asked questions

Is Flagstaff cheaper than Penang?

No. Flagstaff has a cost of living index of 102 vs 44 for Penang (100 = US average). That's about 134% more expensive.

How much will I save moving from Penang to Flagstaff?

On a $75K salary, core expenses in Flagstaff run about $1,346/month more than Penang. Factor this into your salary negotiation when relocating.

What salary do I need in Flagstaff to match my Penang lifestyle?

To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Penang, you'd need roughly $175,862/year in Flagstaff. This is based on the overall COL index difference.

Estimates based on Q1 2026 COL index and market data. Budget uses simplified federal/state tax rates. Zillow ยท BLS ยท Numbeo ยท For general guidance only