Moving from Chicago to Columbus (2026)
Columbus has a COL index of 91 vs 107 for Chicago (100 = US average). You'd pay about 15% less for the same lifestyle.
Save ~$735/mo
on core expenses · $75K salary baseline
Key differences
COL index
10791
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$1,900$1,250
per month
State tax
4.9%3%
income tax
Take-home at $75K
$4,434$4,553
per month
Salary needed in Columbus to match your Chicago lifestyle
Based on the 15% cost of living decrease between the two cities.
| Your salary in Chicago | Equivalent in Columbus |
|---|---|
| $40K | $34,019 |
| $50K | $42,523 |
| $60K | $51,028 |
| $75K | $63,785 |
| $80K | $68,037 |
| $100K | $85,047 |
| $120K | $102,056 |
| $150K | $127,570 |
Monthly budget at $75K — Chicago vs Columbus
| Expense | Chicago | Columbus |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly take-home | $4,434 | $4,553 |
| 1BR rent | $1,900 | $1,250 |
| Groceries | $388 | $361 |
| Transport | $105 | $62 |
| Utilities | $165 | $155 |
| Internet | $65 | $60 |
| Left after essentials | $1,811 | $2,665 |
Frequently asked questions
Is Columbus cheaper than Chicago?
Yes. Columbus has a cost of living index of 91 vs 107 for Chicago (100 = US average). That's about 15% cheaper.
How much will I save moving from Chicago to Columbus?
On a $75K salary, moving from Chicago to Columbus could save roughly $735/month on core expenses. That's ~$8,820/year.
What salary do I need in Columbus to match my Chicago lifestyle?
To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Chicago, you'd need roughly $63,785/year in Columbus. This is based on the overall COL index difference between the two cities.
Moving from Columbus to ChicagoChicago vs Columbus — full comparisonChicago cost of livingColumbus cost of living
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