Moving from Salt Lake City to Fargo (2026)

Fargo has a COL index of 89 vs 107 for Salt Lake City (100 = US average). You'd pay about 17% less for the same lifestyle.

Save ~$483/mo
on core expenses · $75K salary baseline

Key differences

COL index
10789
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$1,700$1,250
per month
State tax
4.7%2.5%
income tax
Take-home at $75K
$4,447$4,584
per month

Salary needed in Fargo to match your Salt Lake City lifestyle

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

Your salary in Salt Lake CityEquivalent in Fargo
$40K$33,271
$50K$41,589
$60K$49,907
$75K$62,383
$80K$66,542
$100K$83,178
$120K$99,813
$150K$124,766

Monthly budget at $75K — Salt Lake City vs Fargo

ExpenseSalt Lake CityFargo
Monthly take-home$4,447$4,584
1BR rent$1,700$1,250
Groceries$372$369
Transport$90$50
Utilities$150$155
Internet$60$65
Left after essentials$2,075$2,695

Frequently asked questions

Is Fargo cheaper than Salt Lake City?

Yes. Fargo has a cost of living index of 89 vs 107 for Salt Lake City (100 = US average). That's about 17% cheaper.

How much will I save moving from Salt Lake City to Fargo?

On a $75K salary, moving from Salt Lake City to Fargo could save roughly $483/month on core expenses. That's ~$5,796/year.

What salary do I need in Fargo to match my Salt Lake City lifestyle?

To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Salt Lake City, you'd need roughly $62,383/year in Fargo. 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