Moving from Richmond to Flagstaff (2026)

Flagstaff has a COL index of 102 vs 98 for Richmond (100 = US average). Expect to pay about 4% more for the same lifestyle.

Pay ~$85 more/mo
on core expenses · $75K salary baseline

Key differences

COL index
98102
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$1,600$1,650
per month
State tax
5.8%2.5%
income tax
Take-home at $75K
$4,378$4,584
per month

Salary needed in Flagstaff to match your Richmond lifestyle

Based on the 4% cost of living increase between the two cities.

Your salary in RichmondEquivalent in Flagstaff
$40K$41,633
$50K$52,041
$60K$62,449
$75K$78,061
$80K$83,265
$100K$104,082
$120K$124,898
$150K$156,122

Monthly budget at $75K — Richmond vs Flagstaff

ExpenseRichmondFlagstaff
Monthly take-home$4,378$4,584
1BR rent$1,600$1,650
Groceries$369$384
Transport$70$45
Utilities$155$195
Internet$60$65
Left after essentials$2,124$2,245

Frequently asked questions

Is Flagstaff cheaper than Richmond?

No. Flagstaff has a cost of living index of 102 vs 98 for Richmond (100 = US average). That's about 4% more expensive.

How much will I save moving from Richmond to Flagstaff?

On a $75K salary, core expenses in Flagstaff run about $85/month more than Richmond. Factor this into your salary negotiation when relocating.

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

To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Richmond, you'd need roughly $78,061/year in Flagstaff. 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