Moving from Charleston to Minneapolis (2026)

Minneapolis has a COL index of 106 vs 97 for Charleston (100 = US average). Expect to pay about 9% more for the same lifestyle.

Pay ~$110 more/mo
on core expenses · $75K salary baseline

Key differences

COL index
97106
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$1,900$1,700
per month
State tax
6.2%9.9%
income tax
Take-home at $75K
$4,353$4,122
per month

Salary needed in Minneapolis to match your Charleston lifestyle

Based on the 9% cost of living increase between the two cities.

Your salary in CharlestonEquivalent in Minneapolis
$40K$43,711
$50K$54,639
$60K$65,567
$75K$81,959
$80K$87,423
$100K$109,278
$120K$131,134
$150K$163,918

Monthly budget at $75K — Charleston vs Minneapolis

ExpenseCharlestonMinneapolis
Monthly take-home$4,353$4,122
1BR rent$1,900$1,700
Groceries$376$391
Transport$55$95
Utilities$162$195
Internet$63$65
Left after essentials$1,797$1,676

Frequently asked questions

Is Minneapolis cheaper than Charleston?

No. Minneapolis has a cost of living index of 106 vs 97 for Charleston (100 = US average). That's about 9% more expensive.

How much will I save moving from Charleston to Minneapolis?

On a $75K salary, moving from Charleston to Minneapolis could save roughly $110/month on core expenses. That's ~$1,320/year.

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

To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Charleston, you'd need roughly $81,959/year in Minneapolis. 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