Moving from Amarillo to Athens (2026)

Athens has a COL index of 55 vs 80 for Amarillo (100 = US average). You'd pay about 31% less for the same lifestyle.

Save ~$312/mo
on rent + taxes ยท $75K salary baseline

Change cities

Key differences

COL index
80 โ†’ 55
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$950 โ†’ $700
per month
State tax
None โ†’ 9%
income tax
COL difference
80 โ†’ 55
31% cheaper

Salary needed in Athens to match your Amarillo lifestyle

Based on the 31% cost of living decrease between the two cities.

Your salary in AmarilloEquivalent in Athens
$40K$27,500
$50K$34,375
$60K$41,250
$75K$51,563
$80K$55,000
$100K$68,750
$120K$82,500
$150K$103,125

Adjust your salary

Save ~$214/moon core expenses at $75K

Monthly budget at $75K โ€” Amarillo vs Athens

ExpenseAmarilloAthens
Monthly take-home$4,741$4,178
1BR rent$950$700
Groceries$346$380
Transport$38$150
Utilities$170$90
Internet$60$30
Left after essentials$3,177$2,828

30-Year Wealth Builder

If you invest your monthly savings of $214 in a low-cost index fund (7% avg return), you'd accumulate an extra:

$261,074

over 30 years compared to staying in Amarillo โ€” that's the real price of a city.

$214/mo invested

Frequently asked questions

Is Athens cheaper than Amarillo?

Yes. Athens has a cost of living index of 55 vs 80 for Amarillo (100 = US average). That's about 31% cheaper.

How much will I save moving from Amarillo to Athens?

On a $75K salary, core expenses in Athens run about $312/month more than Amarillo. Factor this into your salary negotiation when relocating.

What salary do I need in Athens to match my Amarillo lifestyle?

To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Amarillo, you'd need roughly $51,563/year in Athens. This is based on the overall COL index difference.

Estimates based on Q1 2026 COL index and market data. Budget uses simplified federal/state tax rates. Zillow ยท BLS ยท Numbeo ยท For general guidance only