Moving from Columbus to Bismarck (2026)
Bismarck has a COL index of 87 vs 91 for Columbus (100 = US average). You'd pay about 4% less for the same lifestyle.
Save ~$110/mo
on core expenses · $75K salary baseline
Key differences
COL index
9187
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$1,250$1,150
per month
State tax
3%2.5%
income tax
Take-home at $75K
$4,553$4,584
per month
Salary needed in Bismarck to match your Columbus lifestyle
Based on the 4% cost of living decrease between the two cities.
| Your salary in Columbus | Equivalent in Bismarck |
|---|---|
| $40K | $38,242 |
| $50K | $47,802 |
| $60K | $57,363 |
| $75K | $71,703 |
| $80K | $76,484 |
| $100K | $95,604 |
| $120K | $114,725 |
| $150K | $143,407 |
Monthly budget at $75K — Columbus vs Bismarck
| Expense | Columbus | Bismarck |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly take-home | $4,553 | $4,584 |
| 1BR rent | $1,250 | $1,150 |
| Groceries | $361 | $369 |
| Transport | $62 | $42 |
| Utilities | $155 | $152 |
| Internet | $60 | $65 |
| Left after essentials | $2,665 | $2,806 |
Frequently asked questions
Is Bismarck cheaper than Columbus?
Yes. Bismarck has a cost of living index of 87 vs 91 for Columbus (100 = US average). That's about 4% cheaper.
How much will I save moving from Columbus to Bismarck?
On a $75K salary, moving from Columbus to Bismarck could save roughly $110/month on core expenses. That's ~$1,320/year.
What salary do I need in Bismarck to match my Columbus lifestyle?
To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Columbus, you'd need roughly $71,703/year in Bismarck. This is based on the overall COL index difference between the two cities.
Moving from Bismarck to ColumbusColumbus vs Bismarck — full comparisonColumbus cost of livingBismarck 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