Moving from Columbia to Augusta (2026)
Augusta has a COL index of 85 vs 88 for Columbia (100 = US average). You'd pay about 3% less for the same lifestyle.
Save ~$63/mo
on core expenses · $75K salary baseline
Key differences
COL index
8885
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$1,250$1,200
per month
State tax
4.7%5.5%
income tax
Take-home at $75K
$4,447$4,397
per month
Salary needed in Augusta to match your Columbia lifestyle
Based on the 3% cost of living decrease between the two cities.
| Your salary in Columbia | Equivalent in Augusta |
|---|---|
| $40K | $38,636 |
| $50K | $48,295 |
| $60K | $57,955 |
| $75K | $72,443 |
| $80K | $77,273 |
| $100K | $96,591 |
| $120K | $115,909 |
| $150K | $144,886 |
Monthly budget at $75K — Columbia vs Augusta
| Expense | Columbia | Augusta |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly take-home | $4,447 | $4,397 |
| 1BR rent | $1,250 | $1,200 |
| Groceries | $365 | $353 |
| Transport | $45 | $42 |
| Utilities | $158 | $162 |
| Internet | $60 | $58 |
| Left after essentials | $2,569 | $2,582 |
Frequently asked questions
Is Augusta cheaper than Columbia?
Yes. Augusta has a cost of living index of 85 vs 88 for Columbia (100 = US average). That's about 3% cheaper.
How much will I save moving from Columbia to Augusta?
On a $75K salary, moving from Columbia to Augusta could save roughly $63/month on core expenses. That's ~$756/year.
What salary do I need in Augusta to match my Columbia lifestyle?
To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Columbia, you'd need roughly $72,443/year in Augusta. This is based on the overall COL index difference between the two cities.
Moving from Augusta to ColumbiaColumbia vs Augusta — full comparisonColumbia cost of livingAugusta 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