Moving from Denver to Columbia (2026)
Columbia has a COL index of 88 vs 122 for Denver (100 = US average). You'd pay about 28% less for the same lifestyle.
Save ~$829/mo
on core expenses · $75K salary baseline
Key differences
COL index
12288
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$2,000$1,250
per month
State tax
4.4%4.7%
income tax
Take-home at $75K
$4,466$4,447
per month
Salary needed in Columbia to match your Denver lifestyle
Based on the 28% cost of living decrease between the two cities.
| Your salary in Denver | Equivalent in Columbia |
|---|---|
| $40K | $28,852 |
| $50K | $36,066 |
| $60K | $43,279 |
| $75K | $54,098 |
| $80K | $57,705 |
| $100K | $72,131 |
| $120K | $86,557 |
| $150K | $108,197 |
Monthly budget at $75K — Denver vs Columbia
| Expense | Denver | Columbia |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly take-home | $4,466 | $4,447 |
| 1BR rent | $2,000 | $1,250 |
| Groceries | $388 | $365 |
| Transport | $114 | $45 |
| Utilities | $140 | $158 |
| Internet | $65 | $60 |
| Left after essentials | $1,759 | $2,569 |
Frequently asked questions
Is Columbia cheaper than Denver?
Yes. Columbia has a cost of living index of 88 vs 122 for Denver (100 = US average). That's about 28% cheaper.
How much will I save moving from Denver to Columbia?
On a $75K salary, moving from Denver to Columbia could save roughly $829/month on core expenses. That's ~$9,948/year.
What salary do I need in Columbia to match my Denver lifestyle?
To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Denver, you'd need roughly $54,098/year in Columbia. This is based on the overall COL index difference between the two cities.
Moving from Columbia to DenverDenver vs Columbia — full comparisonDenver cost of livingColumbia 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