Can I Afford to Live in Athens vs Columbia on $75K?
Here's how a $75K/year salary plays out in both cities after taxes, rent, and core living expenses — based on Q1 2026 data.
Monthly budget breakdown
| Expense | Athens GR | Columbia SC |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly take-home (est.) | $4,178 | $4,353 |
| 1BR rent | $700 | $1,250 |
| Groceries (est.) | $380 | $361 |
| Transport (est.) | $150 | $45 |
| Utilities | $90 | $152 |
| Internet | $30 | $60 |
| Left after essentials | $2,828/month | $2,485/month |
Frequently asked questions
Is $75K a good salary in Athens?
At $75K/year in Athens, your estimated monthly take-home is $4,178. With 1BR rent around $700/month, rent takes up 17% of your take-home. That's considered very comfortable.
Is $75K a good salary in Columbia?
At $75K/year in Columbia, your estimated monthly take-home is $4,353. With 1BR rent around $1,250/month, rent takes up 29% of your take-home. That's considered manageable.
Which city is more affordable on a $75K salary?
Athens leaves you with more money after core expenses — $2,828/month vs $2,485/month in Columbia.
Can I afford to live alone in Athens on $75K?
Yes. At $75K in Athens, rent takes 17% of your take-home, leaving $2,828/month after essentials. Most financial planners recommend keeping rent below 30%.
See the full cost-of-living comparison
Rent, groceries, taxes, transportation, and more — side by side.
Take-home estimates use simplified federal/state brackets and do not account for pre-tax deductions, 401(k), or local taxes. Data: Zillow, BLS, Numbeo · Q1 2026 · For general guidance only