Moving from Austin to Nashville (2026)
Nashville has a COL index of 112 vs 122 for Austin (100 = US average). You'd pay about 8% less for the same lifestyle.
Key differences
Salary needed in Nashville to match your Austin lifestyle
Based on the 8% cost of living decrease between the two cities.
| Your salary in Austin | Equivalent in Nashville |
|---|---|
| $40K | $36,721 |
| $50K | $45,902 |
| $60K | $55,082 |
| $75K | $68,852 |
| $80K | $73,443 |
| $100K | $91,803 |
| $120K | $110,164 |
| $150K | $137,705 |
Monthly budget at $75K — Austin vs Nashville
| Expense | Austin | Nashville |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly take-home | $4,741 | $4,741 |
| 1BR rent | $1,800 | $1,800 |
| Groceries | $372 | $365 |
| Transport | $50 | $70 |
| Utilities | $170 | $170 |
| Internet | $65 | $60 |
| Left after essentials | $2,284 | $2,276 |
Frequently asked questions
Is Nashville cheaper than Austin?
Yes. Nashville has a cost of living index of 112 vs 122 for Austin (100 = US average). That's about 8% cheaper.
How much will I save moving from Austin to Nashville?
On a $75K salary, core expenses in Nashville run about $8/month more than Austin. Factor this into your salary negotiation when relocating.
What salary do I need in Nashville to match my Austin lifestyle?
To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Austin, you'd need roughly $68,852/year in Nashville. 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