Moving from Albany to Roanoke (2026)

Roanoke has a COL index of 87 vs 92 for Albany (100 = US average). You'd pay about 5% less for the same lifestyle.

Save ~$274/mo
on core expenses · $75K salary baseline

Key differences

COL index
9287
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$1,400$1,200
per month
State tax
6.9%5.8%
income tax
Take-home at $75K
$4,309$4,378
per month

Salary needed in Roanoke to match your Albany lifestyle

Based on the 5% cost of living decrease between the two cities.

Your salary in AlbanyEquivalent in Roanoke
$40K$37,826
$50K$47,283
$60K$56,739
$75K$70,924
$80K$75,652
$100K$94,565
$120K$113,478
$150K$141,848

Monthly budget at $75K — Albany vs Roanoke

ExpenseAlbanyRoanoke
Monthly take-home$4,309$4,378
1BR rent$1,400$1,200
Groceries$380$361
Transport$68$48
Utilities$185$155
Internet$65$60
Left after essentials$2,211$2,554

Frequently asked questions

Is Roanoke cheaper than Albany?

Yes. Roanoke has a cost of living index of 87 vs 92 for Albany (100 = US average). That's about 5% cheaper.

How much will I save moving from Albany to Roanoke?

On a $75K salary, moving from Albany to Roanoke could save roughly $274/month on core expenses. That's ~$3,288/year.

What salary do I need in Roanoke to match my Albany lifestyle?

To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Albany, you'd need roughly $70,924/year in Roanoke. This is based on the overall COL index difference between the two cities.

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