Moving from Austin to Richmond (2026)
Richmond has a COL index of 98 vs 122 for Austin (100 = US average). You'd pay about 20% less for the same lifestyle.
Save ~$203/mo
on core expenses · $75K salary baseline
Key differences
COL index
12298
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$1,800$1,600
per month
State tax
None5.8%
income tax
Take-home at $75K
$4,741$4,378
per month
Salary needed in Richmond to match your Austin lifestyle
Based on the 20% cost of living decrease between the two cities.
| Your salary in Austin | Equivalent in Richmond |
|---|---|
| $40K | $32,131 |
| $50K | $40,164 |
| $60K | $48,197 |
| $75K | $60,246 |
| $80K | $64,262 |
| $100K | $80,328 |
| $120K | $96,393 |
| $150K | $120,492 |
Monthly budget at $75K — Austin vs Richmond
| Expense | Austin | Richmond |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly take-home | $4,741 | $4,378 |
| 1BR rent | $1,800 | $1,600 |
| Groceries | $372 | $369 |
| Transport | $50 | $70 |
| Utilities | $170 | $155 |
| Internet | $65 | $60 |
| Left after essentials | $2,284 | $2,124 |
Frequently asked questions
Is Richmond cheaper than Austin?
Yes. Richmond has a cost of living index of 98 vs 122 for Austin (100 = US average). That's about 20% cheaper.
How much will I save moving from Austin to Richmond?
On a $75K salary, moving from Austin to Richmond could save roughly $203/month on core expenses. That's ~$2,436/year.
What salary do I need in Richmond to match my Austin lifestyle?
To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Austin, you'd need roughly $60,246/year in Richmond. This is based on the overall COL index difference between the two cities.
Moving from Richmond to AustinAustin vs Richmond — full comparisonAustin cost of livingRichmond cost of living
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