Moving from Rochester to Tampa (2026)

Tampa has a COL index of 104 vs 89 for Rochester (100 = US average). Expect to pay about 17% more for the same lifestyle.

Pay ~$715 more/mo
on core expenses · $75K salary baseline

Key differences

COL index
89104
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$1,300$2,000
per month
State tax
6.9%None
income tax
Take-home at $75K
$4,309$4,741
per month

Salary needed in Tampa to match your Rochester lifestyle

Based on the 17% cost of living increase between the two cities.

Your salary in RochesterEquivalent in Tampa
$40K$46,742
$50K$58,427
$60K$70,112
$75K$87,640
$80K$93,483
$100K$116,854
$120K$140,225
$150K$175,281

Monthly budget at $75K — Rochester vs Tampa

ExpenseRochesterTampa
Monthly take-home$4,309$4,741
1BR rent$1,300$2,000
Groceries$376$376
Transport$65$65
Utilities$180$195
Internet$65$65
Left after essentials$2,323$2,040

Frequently asked questions

Is Tampa cheaper than Rochester?

No. Tampa has a cost of living index of 104 vs 89 for Rochester (100 = US average). That's about 17% more expensive.

How much will I save moving from Rochester to Tampa?

On a $75K salary, core expenses in Tampa run about $715/month more than Rochester. Factor this into your salary negotiation when relocating.

What salary do I need in Tampa to match my Rochester lifestyle?

To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Rochester, you'd need roughly $87,640/year in Tampa. 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