Moving from Cedar Rapids to Lincoln (2026)

Lincoln has a COL index of 86 vs 85 for Cedar Rapids (100 = US average). Expect to pay about 1% more for the same lifestyle.

Pay ~$53 more/mo
on core expenses · $75K salary baseline

Key differences

COL index
8586
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$1,100$1,150
per month
State tax
5.7%5.8%
income tax
Take-home at $75K
$4,384$4,378
per month

Salary needed in Lincoln to match your Cedar Rapids lifestyle

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

Your salary in Cedar RapidsEquivalent in Lincoln
$40K$40,471
$50K$50,588
$60K$60,706
$75K$75,882
$80K$80,941
$100K$101,176
$120K$121,412
$150K$151,765

Monthly budget at $75K — Cedar Rapids vs Lincoln

ExpenseCedar RapidsLincoln
Monthly take-home$4,384$4,378
1BR rent$1,100$1,150
Groceries$357$357
Transport$45$48
Utilities$152$152
Internet$58$58
Left after essentials$2,672$2,613

Frequently asked questions

Is Lincoln cheaper than Cedar Rapids?

No. Lincoln has a cost of living index of 86 vs 85 for Cedar Rapids (100 = US average). That's about 1% more expensive.

How much will I save moving from Cedar Rapids to Lincoln?

On a $75K salary, core expenses in Lincoln run about $53/month more than Cedar Rapids. Factor this into your salary negotiation when relocating.

What salary do I need in Lincoln to match my Cedar Rapids lifestyle?

To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Cedar Rapids, you'd need roughly $75,882/year in Lincoln. 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