Cost of Living in Flagstaff, AZ

How far does a $70,000 salary go in Flagstaff? Estimated income taxes on that gross salary total approximately $8,626 per year — combining federal taxes with Arizona's state income tax. Subtract rent for a 2-bedroom apartment ($1,921/month based on HUD Fair Market Rents for the Flagstaff metro area) and the estimated annual take-home is $38,322, or roughly $3,194 per month for everything else: food, transportation, savings, and discretionary spending.

The Flagstaff metro has a cost of living index of 81.5 according to the Bureau of Economic Analysis Regional Price Parities (national average = 100). At 19% below the national average, Flagstaff is a genuinely affordable metro where everyday expenses stretch further than in most cities.

At a $70,000 salary, the estimated 2-bedroom rent in Flagstaff represents approximately 33% of gross income. That exceeds the conventional 30% guideline, meaning housing takes a significant share of the budget at this income level.