Moving from Seattle to Fresno (2026)
Fresno has a COL index of 99 vs 150 for Seattle (100 = US average). You'd pay about 34% less for the same lifestyle.
Save ~$986/mo
on core expenses · $75K salary baseline
Key differences
COL index
15099
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$2,400$1,450
per month
State tax
None9.3%
income tax
Take-home at $75K
$4,741$4,159
per month
Salary needed in Fresno to match your Seattle lifestyle
Based on the 34% cost of living decrease between the two cities.
| Your salary in Seattle | Equivalent in Fresno |
|---|---|
| $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 Fresno
| Expense | Seattle | Fresno |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly take-home | $4,741 | $4,159 |
| 1BR rent | $2,400 | $1,450 |
| Groceries | $410 | $380 |
| Transport | $100 | $72 |
| Utilities | $120 | $142 |
| Internet | $65 | $65 |
| Left after essentials | $1,646 | $2,050 |
Frequently asked questions
Is Fresno cheaper than Seattle?
Yes. Fresno 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 Fresno?
On a $75K salary, moving from Seattle to Fresno could save roughly $986/month on core expenses. That's ~$11,832/year.
What salary do I need in Fresno to match my Seattle lifestyle?
To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Seattle, you'd need roughly $49,500/year in Fresno. This is based on the overall COL index difference between the two cities.
Moving from Fresno to SeattleSeattle vs Fresno — full comparisonSeattle cost of livingFresno cost of living
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