Moving from St. George to Boulder (2026)
Boulder has a COL index of 132 vs 96 for St. George (100 = US average). Expect to pay about 38% more for the same lifestyle.
Key differences
Salary needed in Boulder to match your St. George lifestyle
Based on the 38% cost of living increase between the two cities.
| Your salary in St. George | Equivalent in Boulder |
|---|---|
| $40K | $55,000 |
| $50K | $68,750 |
| $60K | $82,500 |
| $75K | $103,125 |
| $80K | $110,000 |
| $100K | $137,500 |
| $120K | $165,000 |
| $150K | $206,250 |
Monthly budget at $75K — St. George vs Boulder
| Expense | St. George | Boulder |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly take-home | $4,447 | $4,466 |
| 1BR rent | $1,300 | $2,300 |
| Groceries | $372 | $414 |
| Transport | $40 | $80 |
| Utilities | $148 | $138 |
| Internet | $63 | $68 |
| Left after essentials | $2,524 | $1,466 |
Frequently asked questions
Is Boulder cheaper than St. George?
No. Boulder has a cost of living index of 132 vs 96 for St. George (100 = US average). That's about 38% more expensive.
How much will I save moving from St. George to Boulder?
On a $75K salary, core expenses in Boulder run about $1,077/month more than St. George. Factor this into your salary negotiation when relocating.
What salary do I need in Boulder to match my St. George lifestyle?
To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in St. George, you'd need roughly $103,125/year in Boulder. 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