Moving from Boulder to Columbus (2026)
Columbus has a COL index of 91 vs 132 for Boulder (100 = US average). You'd pay about 31% less for the same lifestyle.
Key differences
Salary needed in Columbus to match your Boulder lifestyle
Based on the 31% cost of living decrease between the two cities.
| Your salary in Boulder | Equivalent in Columbus |
|---|---|
| $40K | $27,576 |
| $50K | $34,470 |
| $60K | $41,364 |
| $75K | $51,705 |
| $80K | $55,152 |
| $100K | $68,939 |
| $120K | $82,727 |
| $150K | $103,409 |
Monthly budget at $75K — Boulder vs Columbus
| Expense | Boulder | Columbus |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly take-home | $4,466 | $4,553 |
| 1BR rent | $2,300 | $1,250 |
| Groceries | $414 | $361 |
| Transport | $80 | $62 |
| Utilities | $138 | $155 |
| Internet | $68 | $60 |
| Left after essentials | $1,466 | $2,665 |
Frequently asked questions
Is Columbus cheaper than Boulder?
Yes. Columbus has a cost of living index of 91 vs 132 for Boulder (100 = US average). That's about 31% cheaper.
How much will I save moving from Boulder to Columbus?
On a $75K salary, moving from Boulder to Columbus could save roughly $1,112/month on core expenses. That's ~$13,344/year.
What salary do I need in Columbus to match my Boulder lifestyle?
To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Boulder, you'd need roughly $51,705/year in Columbus. 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