Moving from Wilmington to Flagstaff (2026)

Flagstaff has a COL index of 102 vs 93 for Wilmington (100 = US average). Expect to pay about 10% more for the same lifestyle.

Pay ~$152 more/mo
on core expenses · $75K salary baseline

Key differences

COL index
93102
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$1,550$1,650
per month
State tax
4.5%2.5%
income tax
Take-home at $75K
$4,459$4,584
per month

Salary needed in Flagstaff to match your Wilmington lifestyle

Based on the 10% cost of living increase between the two cities.

Your salary in WilmingtonEquivalent in Flagstaff
$40K$43,871
$50K$54,839
$60K$65,806
$75K$82,258
$80K$87,742
$100K$109,677
$120K$131,613
$150K$164,516

Monthly budget at $75K — Wilmington vs Flagstaff

ExpenseWilmingtonFlagstaff
Monthly take-home$4,459$4,584
1BR rent$1,550$1,650
Groceries$372$384
Transport$45$45
Utilities$158$195
Internet$62$65
Left after essentials$2,272$2,245

Frequently asked questions

Is Flagstaff cheaper than Wilmington?

No. Flagstaff has a cost of living index of 102 vs 93 for Wilmington (100 = US average). That's about 10% more expensive.

How much will I save moving from Wilmington to Flagstaff?

On a $75K salary, core expenses in Flagstaff run about $152/month more than Wilmington. Factor this into your salary negotiation when relocating.

What salary do I need in Flagstaff to match my Wilmington lifestyle?

To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Wilmington, you'd need roughly $82,258/year in Flagstaff. 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