Moving from Columbus to Augusta (2026)
Augusta has a COL index of 85 vs 91 for Columbus (100 = US average). You'd pay about 7% less for the same lifestyle.
Save ~$73/mo
on core expenses · $75K salary baseline
Key differences
COL index
9185
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$1,250$1,200
per month
State tax
3%5.5%
income tax
Take-home at $75K
$4,553$4,397
per month
Salary needed in Augusta to match your Columbus lifestyle
Based on the 7% cost of living decrease between the two cities.
| Your salary in Columbus | Equivalent in Augusta |
|---|---|
| $40K | $37,363 |
| $50K | $46,703 |
| $60K | $56,044 |
| $75K | $70,055 |
| $80K | $74,725 |
| $100K | $93,407 |
| $120K | $112,088 |
| $150K | $140,110 |
Monthly budget at $75K — Columbus vs Augusta
| Expense | Columbus | Augusta |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly take-home | $4,553 | $4,397 |
| 1BR rent | $1,250 | $1,200 |
| Groceries | $361 | $353 |
| Transport | $62 | $42 |
| Utilities | $155 | $162 |
| Internet | $60 | $58 |
| Left after essentials | $2,665 | $2,582 |
Frequently asked questions
Is Augusta cheaper than Columbus?
Yes. Augusta has a cost of living index of 85 vs 91 for Columbus (100 = US average). That's about 7% cheaper.
How much will I save moving from Columbus to Augusta?
On a $75K salary, moving from Columbus to Augusta could save roughly $73/month on core expenses. That's ~$876/year.
What salary do I need in Augusta to match my Columbus lifestyle?
To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Columbus, you'd need roughly $70,055/year in Augusta. This is based on the overall COL index difference between the two cities.
Moving from Augusta to ColumbusColumbus vs Augusta — full comparisonColumbus 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