Can I Afford to Live in Belgrade vs Medellín on $80K?

Here's how a $80K/year salary plays out in both cities after taxes, rent, and core living expenses — based on Q1 2026 data.

Belgrade, RS
$4,390/mo take-home
Rent: $550/mo (13% of take-home)
Very comfortable
Medellín, CO
$5,057/mo take-home
Rent: $500/mo (10% of take-home)
Very comfortable

Monthly budget breakdown

Expense
Belgrade
RS
Medellín
CO
Monthly take-home (est.)$4,390$5,057
1BR rent$550$500
Groceries (est.)$380$380
Transport (est.)$150$150
Utilities$80$55
Internet$20$30
Left after essentials$3,210/month$3,942/month
Medellín (Antioquia) has no state income tax, boosting take-home vs Belgrade (RS rate: 10%).

Frequently asked questions

Is $80K a good salary in Belgrade?

At $80K/year in Belgrade, your estimated monthly take-home is $4,390. With 1BR rent around $550/month, rent takes up 13% of your take-home. That's considered very comfortable.

Is $80K a good salary in Medellín?

At $80K/year in Medellín, your estimated monthly take-home is $5,057. With 1BR rent around $500/month, rent takes up 10% of your take-home. That's considered very comfortable.

Which city is more affordable on a $80K salary?

Medellín leaves you with more money after core expenses — $3,942/month vs $3,210/month in Belgrade.

Can I afford to live alone in Belgrade on $80K?

Yes. At $80K in Belgrade, rent takes 13% of your take-home, leaving $3,210/month after essentials. Most financial planners recommend keeping rent below 30%.

Compare other salary bands — Belgrade vs Medellín

See the full cost-of-living comparison

Rent, groceries, taxes, transportation, and more — side by side.

Full comparison

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