Moving from Des Moines to Augusta (2026)
Augusta has a COL index of 85 vs 87 for Des Moines (100 = US average). You'd pay about 2% less for the same lifestyle.
Save ~$15/mo
on core expenses · $75K salary baseline
Key differences
COL index
8785
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$1,200$1,200
per month
State tax
5.7%5.5%
income tax
Take-home at $75K
$4,384$4,397
per month
Salary needed in Augusta to match your Des Moines lifestyle
Based on the 2% cost of living decrease between the two cities.
| Your salary in Des Moines | Equivalent in Augusta |
|---|---|
| $40K | $39,080 |
| $50K | $48,851 |
| $60K | $58,621 |
| $75K | $73,276 |
| $80K | $78,161 |
| $100K | $97,701 |
| $120K | $117,241 |
| $150K | $146,552 |
Monthly budget at $75K — Des Moines vs Augusta
| Expense | Des Moines | Augusta |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly take-home | $4,384 | $4,397 |
| 1BR rent | $1,200 | $1,200 |
| Groceries | $365 | $353 |
| Transport | $50 | $42 |
| Utilities | $155 | $162 |
| Internet | $60 | $58 |
| Left after essentials | $2,554 | $2,582 |
Frequently asked questions
Is Augusta cheaper than Des Moines?
Yes. Augusta has a cost of living index of 85 vs 87 for Des Moines (100 = US average). That's about 2% cheaper.
How much will I save moving from Des Moines to Augusta?
On a $75K salary, moving from Des Moines to Augusta could save roughly $15/month on core expenses. That's ~$180/year.
What salary do I need in Augusta to match my Des Moines lifestyle?
To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Des Moines, you'd need roughly $73,276/year in Augusta. This is based on the overall COL index difference between the two cities.
Moving from Augusta to Des MoinesDes Moines vs Augusta — full comparisonDes Moines 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