Moving from Columbia to Midland (2026)

Midland has a COL index of 93 vs 87 for Columbia (100 = US average). Expect to pay about 7% more for the same lifestyle.

Pay ~$25 more/mo
on core expenses · $75K salary baseline

Key differences

COL index
8793
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$1,250$1,200
per month
State tax
6.2%None
income tax
Take-home at $75K
$4,353$4,741
per month

Salary needed in Midland to match your Columbia lifestyle

Based on the 7% cost of living increase between the two cities.

Your salary in ColumbiaEquivalent in Midland
$40K$42,759
$50K$53,448
$60K$64,138
$75K$80,172
$80K$85,517
$100K$106,897
$120K$128,276
$150K$160,345

Monthly budget at $75K — Columbia vs Midland

ExpenseColumbiaMidland
Monthly take-home$4,353$4,741
1BR rent$1,250$1,200
Groceries$361$365
Transport$45$35
Utilities$152$178
Internet$60$65
Left after essentials$2,485$2,898

Frequently asked questions

Is Midland cheaper than Columbia?

No. Midland has a cost of living index of 93 vs 87 for Columbia (100 = US average). That's about 7% more expensive.

How much will I save moving from Columbia to Midland?

On a $75K salary, moving from Columbia to Midland could save roughly $25/month on core expenses. That's ~$300/year.

What salary do I need in Midland to match my Columbia lifestyle?

To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Columbia, you'd need roughly $80,172/year in Midland. 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