Moving from Athens to Medellín (2026)

Medellín has a COL index of 35 vs 55 for Athens (100 = US average). You'd pay about 36% less for the same lifestyle.

Save ~$763/mo
on rent + taxes · $75K salary baseline

Change cities

Key differences

COL index
5535
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$700$500
per month
State tax
9%None
income tax
COL difference
5535
36% cheaper

Salary needed in Medellín to match your Athens lifestyle

Based on the 36% cost of living decrease between the two cities.

Your salary in AthensEquivalent in Medellín
$40K$25,455
$50K$31,818
$60K$38,182
$75K$47,727
$80K$50,909
$100K$63,636
$120K$76,364
$150K$95,455

Adjust your salary

Save ~$235/moon core expenses at $75K

Monthly budget at $75KAthens vs Medellín

ExpenseAthensMedellín
Monthly take-home$4,178$4,741
1BR rent$700$500
Groceries$380$380
Transport$150$150
Utilities$90$55
Internet$30$30
Left after essentials$2,828$3,626

30-Year Wealth Builder

If you invest your monthly savings of $235 in a low-cost index fund (7% avg return), you'd accumulate an extra:

$286,693

over 30 years compared to staying in Athens — that's the real price of a city.

$235/mo invested

Frequently asked questions

Is Medellín cheaper than Athens?

Yes. Medellín has a cost of living index of 35 vs 55 for Athens (100 = US average). That's about 36% cheaper.

How much will I save moving from Athens to Medellín?

On a $75K salary, moving from Athens to Medellín saves roughly $763/month on core expenses. That's ~$9,156/year.

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

To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Athens, you'd need roughly $47,727/year in Medellín. 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 · BLS · Numbeo · For general guidance only