Is Fort Collins expensive to live in?

Fort Collins is considered moderately expensive, with a cost index of 117 compared to the US average of 100. Living here costs about 17% more than the national average. The median monthly rent is $1,970, and the median household income is $83,598.

What salary do you need to live comfortably in Fort Collins?

Using the standard 30% rent-to-income rule, you need at least $78,800/year to afford median rent in Fort Collins. The median household income is $83,598, giving a rent-to-income ratio of 28%. Financial experts recommend keeping rent below 30% of gross income.

What is the average rent in Fort Collins?

The median rent in Fort Collins is $1,970 per month. Housing costs score 142 against the national average of 100, meaning housing is 42% more expensive than the US average.

How does Fort Collins compare to the national average cost of living?

Fort Collins's overall cost index is 117 vs the national average of 100. Breaking it down: housing (142), food & groceries (115), transportation (111), utilities (108), and healthcare (120). Fort Collins is above average in most categories.

Is Fort Collins, Colorado a good place to live?

Fort Collins has a population of 170,376 and a median household income of $83,598. With a cost index of 117, it offers a higher-cost lifestyle. The rent-to-income ratio is 28%, which is within healthy financial guidelines.

What are the cheapest cities near Fort Collins?

To find the most affordable cities near Fort Collins in Colorado, use the Livably city comparison tool or browse the Colorado state page. You can compare rent, cost index, income, and affordability side by side across all tracked cities.

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Fort Collins

Monthly city intelligence across housing costs, tax load, and affordability signals to help you plan your next move with clearer numbers.

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Cost index: 117

Median rent: $1,970

Median income: $83,598

Cost Index

0/ 100 avg

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Median Rent

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About Fort Collins

Living in Fort Collins, Colorado

Fort Collins, Colorado is a growing city with a population of approximately 170,376. The overall cost of living index sits at 117, which is above the national average of 100. This means everyday expenses — housing, groceries, transportation, and healthcare — are roughly 17% more expensive compared to the typical U.S. city.

Housing is the largest cost driver in Fort Collins. Median rent is $1,970 per month, while the median home price is $556,327. At a median household income of $83,598, rent consumes roughly 28% of gross income, which remains manageable relative to local incomes. The housing sub-index of 142 highlights significantly elevated shelter costs.

Beyond housing, healthcare is the most elevated non-shelter expense in Fort Collins with a sub-index of 120, while utilities is comparatively more affordable at 108. State-level taxes also shape the true cost of living: Colorado applies a 4.40% income tax rate, and property tax averages 0.49% of assessed home value. The combined sales tax rate is 7.81%. Local income tax may apply in some municipalities.

Over the past twelve months, the cost of living in Fort Collins has remained relatively stable. Among the 11 tracked cities in Colorado, Fort Collins ranks #9 from most to least affordable. Whether you're evaluating a job offer, planning a relocation, or comparing salary purchasing power, these numbers give a grounded, data-backed view of what life in Fort Collins actually costs.

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