Moving from Austin to Lansing (2026)

Lansing has a COL index of 85 vs 122 for Austin (100 = US average). You'd pay about 30% less for the same lifestyle.

Save ~$623/mo
on core expenses · $75K salary baseline

Key differences

COL index
12285
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$1,800$1,200
per month
State tax
None4.1%
income tax
Take-home at $75K
$4,741$4,484
per month

Salary needed in Lansing to match your Austin lifestyle

Based on the 30% cost of living decrease between the two cities.

Your salary in AustinEquivalent in Lansing
$40K$27,869
$50K$34,836
$60K$41,803
$75K$52,254
$80K$55,738
$100K$69,672
$120K$83,607
$150K$104,508

Monthly budget at $75K — Austin vs Lansing

ExpenseAustinLansing
Monthly take-home$4,741$4,484
1BR rent$1,800$1,200
Groceries$372$361
Transport$50$55
Utilities$170$158
Internet$65$60
Left after essentials$2,284$2,650

Frequently asked questions

Is Lansing cheaper than Austin?

Yes. Lansing has a cost of living index of 85 vs 122 for Austin (100 = US average). That's about 30% cheaper.

How much will I save moving from Austin to Lansing?

On a $75K salary, moving from Austin to Lansing could save roughly $623/month on core expenses. That's ~$7,476/year.

What salary do I need in Lansing to match my Austin lifestyle?

To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Austin, you'd need roughly $52,254/year in Lansing. 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