Moving from Phoenix to Richmond (2026)

Richmond has a COL index of 98 vs 100 for Phoenix (100 = US average). You'd pay about 2% less for the same lifestyle.

Save ~$306/mo
on rent + taxes ยท $75K salary baseline

Change cities

Key differences

COL index
100 โ†’ 98
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$1,500 โ†’ $1,600
per month
State tax
2.5% โ†’ 5.8%
income tax
COL difference
100 โ†’ 98
2% cheaper

Salary needed in Richmond to match your Phoenix lifestyle

Based on the 2% cost of living decrease between the two cities.

Your salary in PhoenixEquivalent in Richmond
$40K$39,200
$50K$49,000
$60K$58,800
$75K$73,500
$80K$78,400
$100K$98,000
$120K$117,600
$150K$147,000

๐Ÿ’ต Household income (before tax)

$75K
$
$30K$300K
Pay ~$51/mo moreon core expenses at $75K

Monthly budget at $75K โ€” Phoenix vs Richmond

ExpensePhoenixRichmond
Monthly take-home$4,584$4,378
1BR rent$1,500$1,600
Groceries$369$369
Transport$64$70
Utilities$210$155
Internet$60$60
Left after essentials$2,381$2,124

Frequently asked questions

Is Richmond cheaper than Phoenix?

Yes. Richmond has a cost of living index of 98 vs 100 for Phoenix (100 = US average). That's about 2% cheaper.

How much will I save moving from Phoenix to Richmond?

On a $75K salary, core expenses in Richmond run about $306/month more than Phoenix. Factor this into your salary negotiation when relocating.

What salary do I need in Richmond to match my Phoenix lifestyle?

To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Phoenix, you'd need roughly $73,500/year in Richmond. 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