Moving from Dallas to Columbus (2026)

Columbus has a COL index of 83 vs 99 for Dallas (100 = US average). You'd pay about 16% less for the same lifestyle.

Save ~$481/mo
on core expenses · $75K salary baseline

Key differences

COL index
9983
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$1,500$1,100
per month
State tax
None5.5%
income tax
Take-home at $75K
$4,741$4,397
per month

Salary needed in Columbus to match your Dallas lifestyle

Based on the 16% cost of living decrease between the two cities.

Your salary in DallasEquivalent in Columbus
$40K$33,535
$50K$41,919
$60K$50,303
$75K$62,879
$80K$67,071
$100K$83,838
$120K$100,606
$150K$125,758

Monthly budget at $75K — Dallas vs Columbus

ExpenseDallasColumbus
Monthly take-home$4,741$4,397
1BR rent$1,500$1,100
Groceries$361$353
Transport$96$40
Utilities$175$160
Internet$60$58
Left after essentials$2,549$2,686

Frequently asked questions

Is Columbus cheaper than Dallas?

Yes. Columbus has a cost of living index of 83 vs 99 for Dallas (100 = US average). That's about 16% cheaper.

How much will I save moving from Dallas to Columbus?

On a $75K salary, moving from Dallas to Columbus could save roughly $481/month on core expenses. That's ~$5,772/year.

What salary do I need in Columbus to match my Dallas lifestyle?

To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Dallas, you'd need roughly $62,879/year in Columbus. 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