Moving from Cape Coral to Charleston (2026)

Charleston has a COL index of 97 vs 96 for Cape Coral (100 = US average). Expect to pay about 1% more for the same lifestyle.

Pay ~$123 more/mo
on core expenses · $75K salary baseline

Key differences

COL index
9697
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$1,750$1,900
per month
State tax
None6.2%
income tax
Take-home at $75K
$4,741$4,353
per month

Salary needed in Charleston to match your Cape Coral lifestyle

Based on the 1% cost of living increase between the two cities.

Your salary in Cape CoralEquivalent in Charleston
$40K$40,417
$50K$50,521
$60K$60,625
$75K$75,781
$80K$80,833
$100K$101,042
$120K$121,250
$150K$151,563

Monthly budget at $75K — Cape Coral vs Charleston

ExpenseCape CoralCharleston
Monthly take-home$4,741$4,353
1BR rent$1,750$1,900
Groceries$372$376
Transport$48$55
Utilities$198$162
Internet$65$63
Left after essentials$2,308$1,797

Frequently asked questions

Is Charleston cheaper than Cape Coral?

No. Charleston has a cost of living index of 97 vs 96 for Cape Coral (100 = US average). That's about 1% more expensive.

How much will I save moving from Cape Coral to Charleston?

On a $75K salary, core expenses in Charleston run about $123/month more than Cape Coral. Factor this into your salary negotiation when relocating.

What salary do I need in Charleston to match my Cape Coral lifestyle?

To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Cape Coral, you'd need roughly $75,781/year in Charleston. 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