Moving from Augusta to Gainesville (2026)

Gainesville has a COL index of 88 vs 85 for Augusta (100 = US average). Expect to pay about 4% more for the same lifestyle.

Pay ~$146 more/mo
on core expenses · $75K salary baseline

Key differences

COL index
8588
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$1,200$1,300
per month
State tax
5.5%None
income tax
Take-home at $75K
$4,397$4,741
per month

Salary needed in Gainesville to match your Augusta lifestyle

Based on the 4% cost of living increase between the two cities.

Your salary in AugustaEquivalent in Gainesville
$40K$41,412
$50K$51,765
$60K$62,118
$75K$77,647
$80K$82,824
$100K$103,529
$120K$124,235
$150K$155,294

Monthly budget at $75K — Augusta vs Gainesville

ExpenseAugustaGainesville
Monthly take-home$4,397$4,741
1BR rent$1,200$1,300
Groceries$353$361
Transport$42$55
Utilities$162$185
Internet$58$60
Left after essentials$2,582$2,780

Frequently asked questions

Is Gainesville cheaper than Augusta?

No. Gainesville has a cost of living index of 88 vs 85 for Augusta (100 = US average). That's about 4% more expensive.

How much will I save moving from Augusta to Gainesville?

On a $75K salary, core expenses in Gainesville run about $146/month more than Augusta. Factor this into your salary negotiation when relocating.

What salary do I need in Gainesville to match my Augusta lifestyle?

To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Augusta, you'd need roughly $77,647/year in Gainesville. 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