Moving from Playa del Carmen to Flagstaff (2026)

Flagstaff has a COL index of 102 vs 48 for Playa del Carmen (100 = US average). Expect to pay about 113% more for the same lifestyle.

Pay ~$1,006 more/mo
on rent + taxes ยท $75K salary baseline

Change cities

Key differences

COL index
48 โ†’ 102
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$800 โ†’ $1,650
per month
State tax
None โ†’ 2.5%
income tax
COL difference
48 โ†’ 102
113% more expensive

Salary needed in Flagstaff to match your Playa del Carmen lifestyle

Based on the 113% cost of living increase between the two cities.

Your salary in Playa del CarmenEquivalent in Flagstaff
$40K$85,000
$50K$106,250
$60K$127,500
$75K$159,375
$80K$170,000
$100K$212,500
$120K$255,000
$150K$318,750

Adjust your salary

Pay ~$919/mo moreon core expenses at $75K

Monthly budget at $75K โ€” Playa del Carmen vs Flagstaff

ExpensePlaya del CarmenFlagstaff
Monthly take-home$4,741$4,584
1BR rent$800$1,650
Groceries$380$384
Transport$150$45
Utilities$55$195
Internet$35$65
Left after essentials$3,321$2,245

Frequently asked questions

Is Flagstaff cheaper than Playa del Carmen?

No. Flagstaff has a cost of living index of 102 vs 48 for Playa del Carmen (100 = US average). That's about 113% more expensive.

How much will I save moving from Playa del Carmen to Flagstaff?

On a $75K salary, core expenses in Flagstaff run about $1,006/month more than Playa del Carmen. Factor this into your salary negotiation when relocating.

What salary do I need in Flagstaff to match my Playa del Carmen lifestyle?

To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Playa del Carmen, you'd need roughly $159,375/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