Moving from Seattle to Fort Collins (2026)
Fort Collins has a COL index of 99 vs 150 for Seattle (100 = US average). You'd pay about 34% less for the same lifestyle.
Key differences
Salary needed in Fort Collins to match your Seattle lifestyle
Based on the 34% cost of living decrease between the two cities.
| Your salary in Seattle | Equivalent in Fort Collins |
|---|---|
| $40K | $26,400 |
| $50K | $33,000 |
| $60K | $39,600 |
| $75K | $49,500 |
| $80K | $52,800 |
| $100K | $66,000 |
| $120K | $79,200 |
| $150K | $99,000 |
Monthly budget at $75K — Seattle vs Fort Collins
| Expense | Seattle | Fort Collins |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly take-home | $4,741 | $4,466 |
| 1BR rent | $2,400 | $1,700 |
| Groceries | $410 | $384 |
| Transport | $100 | $55 |
| Utilities | $120 | $140 |
| Internet | $65 | $65 |
| Left after essentials | $1,646 | $2,122 |
Frequently asked questions
Is Fort Collins cheaper than Seattle?
Yes. Fort Collins has a cost of living index of 99 vs 150 for Seattle (100 = US average). That's about 34% cheaper.
How much will I save moving from Seattle to Fort Collins?
On a $75K salary, moving from Seattle to Fort Collins could save roughly $751/month on core expenses. That's ~$9,012/year.
What salary do I need in Fort Collins to match my Seattle lifestyle?
To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Seattle, you'd need roughly $49,500/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