Moving from Salem to Provo (2026)
Provo has a COL index of 99 vs 97 for Salem (100 = US average). Expect to pay about 2% more for the same lifestyle.
Pay ~$45 more/mo
on core expenses · $75K salary baseline
Key differences
COL index
9799
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$1,450$1,400
per month
State tax
9.9%4.7%
income tax
Take-home at $75K
$4,122$4,447
per month
Salary needed in Provo to match your Salem lifestyle
Based on the 2% cost of living increase between the two cities.
| Your salary in Salem | Equivalent in Provo |
|---|---|
| $40K | $40,825 |
| $50K | $51,031 |
| $60K | $61,237 |
| $75K | $76,546 |
| $80K | $81,649 |
| $100K | $102,062 |
| $120K | $122,474 |
| $150K | $153,093 |
Monthly budget at $75K — Salem vs Provo
| Expense | Salem | Provo |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly take-home | $4,122 | $4,447 |
| 1BR rent | $1,450 | $1,400 |
| Groceries | $380 | $372 |
| Transport | $72 | $62 |
| Utilities | $125 | $148 |
| Internet | $63 | $63 |
| Left after essentials | $2,032 | $2,402 |
Frequently asked questions
Is Provo cheaper than Salem?
No. Provo has a cost of living index of 99 vs 97 for Salem (100 = US average). That's about 2% more expensive.
How much will I save moving from Salem to Provo?
On a $75K salary, moving from Salem to Provo could save roughly $45/month on core expenses. That's ~$540/year.
What salary do I need in Provo to match my Salem lifestyle?
To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Salem, you'd need roughly $76,546/year in Provo. 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