Moving from Phoenix to Topeka (2026)
Topeka has a COL index of 80 vs 100 for Phoenix (100 = US average). You'd pay about 20% less for the same lifestyle.
Save ~$668/mo
on core expenses · $75K salary baseline
Key differences
COL index
10080
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$1,500$940
per month
State tax
2.5%5.7%
income tax
Take-home at $75K
$4,584$4,384
per month
Salary needed in Topeka to match your Phoenix lifestyle
Based on the 20% cost of living decrease between the two cities.
| Your salary in Phoenix | Equivalent in Topeka |
|---|---|
| $40K | $32,000 |
| $50K | $40,000 |
| $60K | $48,000 |
| $75K | $60,000 |
| $80K | $64,000 |
| $100K | $80,000 |
| $120K | $96,000 |
| $150K | $120,000 |
Monthly budget at $75K — Phoenix vs Topeka
| Expense | Phoenix | Topeka |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly take-home | $4,584 | $4,384 |
| 1BR rent | $1,500 | $940 |
| Groceries | $369 | $350 |
| Transport | $64 | $40 |
| Utilities | $210 | $150 |
| Internet | $60 | $55 |
| Left after essentials | $2,381 | $2,849 |
Frequently asked questions
Is Topeka cheaper than Phoenix?
Yes. Topeka has a cost of living index of 80 vs 100 for Phoenix (100 = US average). That's about 20% cheaper.
How much will I save moving from Phoenix to Topeka?
On a $75K salary, moving from Phoenix to Topeka could save roughly $668/month on core expenses. That's ~$8,016/year.
What salary do I need in Topeka to match my Phoenix lifestyle?
To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Phoenix, you'd need roughly $60,000/year in Topeka. This is based on the overall COL index difference between the two cities.
Moving from Topeka to PhoenixPhoenix vs Topeka — full comparisonPhoenix cost of livingTopeka cost of living
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