Moving from Charleston to Columbus (2026)
Columbus has a COL index of 91 vs 97 for Charleston (100 = US average). You'd pay about 6% less for the same lifestyle.
Key differences
Salary needed in Columbus to match your Charleston lifestyle
Based on the 6% cost of living decrease between the two cities.
| Your salary in Charleston | Equivalent in Columbus |
|---|---|
| $40K | $37,526 |
| $50K | $46,907 |
| $60K | $56,289 |
| $75K | $70,361 |
| $80K | $75,052 |
| $100K | $93,814 |
| $120K | $112,577 |
| $150K | $140,722 |
Monthly budget at $75K — Charleston vs Columbus
| Expense | Charleston | Columbus |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly take-home | $4,353 | $4,553 |
| 1BR rent | $1,900 | $1,250 |
| Groceries | $376 | $361 |
| Transport | $55 | $62 |
| Utilities | $162 | $155 |
| Internet | $63 | $60 |
| Left after essentials | $1,797 | $2,665 |
Frequently asked questions
Is Columbus cheaper than Charleston?
Yes. Columbus has a cost of living index of 91 vs 97 for Charleston (100 = US average). That's about 6% cheaper.
How much will I save moving from Charleston to Columbus?
On a $75K salary, moving from Charleston to Columbus could save roughly $668/month on core expenses. That's ~$8,016/year.
What salary do I need in Columbus to match my Charleston lifestyle?
To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Charleston, you'd need roughly $70,361/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