Moving from Richmond to Fort Collins (2026)

Fort Collins has a COL index of 99 vs 98 for Richmond (100 = US average). Expect to pay about 1% more for the same lifestyle.

Pay ~$90 more/mo
on core expenses · $75K salary baseline

Key differences

COL index
9899
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$1,600$1,700
per month
State tax
5.8%4.4%
income tax
Take-home at $75K
$4,378$4,466
per month

Salary needed in Fort Collins to match your Richmond lifestyle

Based on the 1% cost of living increase between the two cities.

Your salary in RichmondEquivalent in Fort Collins
$40K$40,408
$50K$50,510
$60K$60,612
$75K$75,765
$80K$80,816
$100K$101,020
$120K$121,224
$150K$151,531

Monthly budget at $75K — Richmond vs Fort Collins

ExpenseRichmondFort Collins
Monthly take-home$4,378$4,466
1BR rent$1,600$1,700
Groceries$369$384
Transport$70$55
Utilities$155$140
Internet$60$65
Left after essentials$2,124$2,122

Frequently asked questions

Is Fort Collins cheaper than Richmond?

No. Fort Collins has a cost of living index of 99 vs 98 for Richmond (100 = US average). That's about 1% more expensive.

How much will I save moving from Richmond to Fort Collins?

On a $75K salary, core expenses in Fort Collins run about $90/month more than Richmond. Factor this into your salary negotiation when relocating.

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

To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Richmond, you'd need roughly $75,765/year in Fort Collins. 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