Cost of Living in Fort Collins-Loveland, CO

How far does a $70,000 salary go in Fort Collins-Loveland? Estimated income taxes on that gross salary total approximately $9,679 per year — combining federal taxes with Colorado's state income tax. Subtract rent for a 2-bedroom apartment ($1,732/month based on HUD Fair Market Rents for the Fort Collins-Loveland metro area) and the estimated annual take-home is $39,537, or roughly $3,295 per month for everything else: food, transportation, savings, and discretionary spending.

The Fort Collins-Loveland metro has a cost of living index of 116.8 according to the Bureau of Economic Analysis Regional Price Parities (national average = 100). At 17% above average, Fort Collins-Loveland is a noticeably expensive metro — groceries, services, and everyday purchases cost more than in most of the country.

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