Moving from Austin to West Palm Beach (2026)
West Palm Beach has a COL index of 117 vs 122 for Austin (100 = US average). You'd pay about 4% less for the same lifestyle.
Key differences
Salary needed in West Palm Beach to match your Austin lifestyle
Based on the 4% cost of living decrease between the two cities.
| Your salary in Austin | Equivalent in West Palm Beach |
|---|---|
| $40K | $38,361 |
| $50K | $47,951 |
| $60K | $57,541 |
| $75K | $71,926 |
| $80K | $76,721 |
| $100K | $95,902 |
| $120K | $115,082 |
| $150K | $143,852 |
Monthly budget at $75K — Austin vs West Palm Beach
| Expense | Austin | West Palm Beach |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly take-home | $4,741 | $4,741 |
| 1BR rent | $1,800 | $2,400 |
| Groceries | $372 | $403 |
| Transport | $50 | $112 |
| Utilities | $170 | $200 |
| Internet | $65 | $70 |
| Left after essentials | $2,284 | $1,556 |
Frequently asked questions
Is West Palm Beach cheaper than Austin?
Yes. West Palm Beach has a cost of living index of 117 vs 122 for Austin (100 = US average). That's about 4% cheaper.
How much will I save moving from Austin to West Palm Beach?
On a $75K salary, core expenses in West Palm Beach run about $728/month more than Austin. Factor this into your salary negotiation when relocating.
What salary do I need in West Palm Beach to match my Austin lifestyle?
To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Austin, you'd need roughly $71,926/year in West Palm Beach. 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