Moving from Denver to Columbus (2026)
Columbus has a COL index of 91 vs 122 for Denver (100 = US average). You'd pay about 25% less for the same lifestyle.
Save ~$819/mo
on core expenses · $75K salary baseline
Key differences
COL index
12291
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$2,000$1,250
per month
State tax
4.4%3%
income tax
Take-home at $75K
$4,466$4,553
per month
Salary needed in Columbus to match your Denver lifestyle
Based on the 25% cost of living decrease between the two cities.
| Your salary in Denver | Equivalent in Columbus |
|---|---|
| $40K | $29,836 |
| $50K | $37,295 |
| $60K | $44,754 |
| $75K | $55,943 |
| $80K | $59,672 |
| $100K | $74,590 |
| $120K | $89,508 |
| $150K | $111,885 |
Monthly budget at $75K — Denver vs Columbus
| Expense | Denver | Columbus |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly take-home | $4,466 | $4,553 |
| 1BR rent | $2,000 | $1,250 |
| Groceries | $388 | $361 |
| Transport | $114 | $62 |
| Utilities | $140 | $155 |
| Internet | $65 | $60 |
| Left after essentials | $1,759 | $2,665 |
Frequently asked questions
Is Columbus cheaper than Denver?
Yes. Columbus has a cost of living index of 91 vs 122 for Denver (100 = US average). That's about 25% cheaper.
How much will I save moving from Denver to Columbus?
On a $75K salary, moving from Denver to Columbus could save roughly $819/month on core expenses. That's ~$9,828/year.
What salary do I need in Columbus to match my Denver lifestyle?
To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Denver, you'd need roughly $55,943/year in Columbus. This is based on the overall COL index difference between the two cities.
Moving from Columbus to DenverDenver vs Columbus — full comparisonDenver cost of livingColumbus 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