Moving from Amsterdam to Charleston (2026)

Charleston has a COL index of 97 vs 85 for Amsterdam (100 = US average). Expect to pay about 15% more for the same lifestyle.

Pay ~$1,450 more/mo
on rent + taxes ยท $75K salary baseline

Change cities

Key differences

COL index
85 โ†’ 97
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$1,800 โ†’ $1,900
per month
State tax
31% โ†’ 6.2%
income tax
COL difference
85 โ†’ 97
15% more expensive

Salary needed in Charleston to match your Amsterdam lifestyle

Based on the 15% cost of living increase between the two cities.

Your salary in AmsterdamEquivalent in Charleston
$40K$45,917
$50K$57,396
$60K$68,876
$75K$86,095
$80K$91,834
$100K$114,793
$120K$137,751
$150K$172,189

Adjust your salary

Pay ~$76/mo moreon core expenses at $75K

Monthly budget at $75K โ€” Amsterdam vs Charleston

ExpenseAmsterdamCharleston
Monthly take-home$3,000$4,353
1BR rent$1,800$1,900
Groceries$380$376
Transport$150$55
Utilities$110$162
Internet$40$63
Left after essentials$520$1,797

Frequently asked questions

Is Charleston cheaper than Amsterdam?

No. Charleston has a cost of living index of 97 vs 85 for Amsterdam (100 = US average). That's about 15% more expensive.

How much will I save moving from Amsterdam to Charleston?

On a $75K salary, moving from Amsterdam to Charleston saves roughly $1,450/month on core expenses. That's ~$17,400/year.

What salary do I need in Charleston to match my Amsterdam lifestyle?

To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Amsterdam, you'd need roughly $86,095/year in Charleston. 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