Moving from Albany to Columbus (2026)
Columbus has a COL index of 83 vs 92 for Albany (100 = US average). You'd pay about 10% less for the same lifestyle.
Save ~$387/mo
on core expenses · $75K salary baseline
Key differences
COL index
9283
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$1,400$1,100
per month
State tax
6.9%5.5%
income tax
Take-home at $75K
$4,309$4,397
per month
Salary needed in Columbus to match your Albany lifestyle
Based on the 10% cost of living decrease between the two cities.
| Your salary in Albany | Equivalent in Columbus |
|---|---|
| $40K | $36,087 |
| $50K | $45,109 |
| $60K | $54,130 |
| $75K | $67,663 |
| $80K | $72,174 |
| $100K | $90,217 |
| $120K | $108,261 |
| $150K | $135,326 |
Monthly budget at $75K — Albany vs Columbus
| Expense | Albany | Columbus |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly take-home | $4,309 | $4,397 |
| 1BR rent | $1,400 | $1,100 |
| Groceries | $380 | $353 |
| Transport | $68 | $40 |
| Utilities | $185 | $160 |
| Internet | $65 | $58 |
| Left after essentials | $2,211 | $2,686 |
Frequently asked questions
Is Columbus cheaper than Albany?
Yes. Columbus has a cost of living index of 83 vs 92 for Albany (100 = US average). That's about 10% cheaper.
How much will I save moving from Albany to Columbus?
On a $75K salary, moving from Albany to Columbus could save roughly $387/month on core expenses. That's ~$4,644/year.
What salary do I need in Columbus to match my Albany lifestyle?
To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Albany, you'd need roughly $67,663/year in Columbus. This is based on the overall COL index difference between the two cities.
Moving from Columbus to AlbanyAlbany vs Columbus — full comparisonAlbany cost of livingColumbus cost of living
Estimates based on Q1 2026 COL index and market data. Budget uses simplified federal/state tax rates at $75K. Zillow · BLS · Numbeo · For general guidance only