Moving from Duluth to Columbia (2026)

Columbia has a COL index of 88 vs 87 for Duluth (100 = US average). Expect to pay about 1% more for the same lifestyle.

Pay ~$22 more/mo
on core expenses · $75K salary baseline

Key differences

COL index
8788
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$1,200$1,250
per month
State tax
9.9%4.7%
income tax
Take-home at $75K
$4,122$4,447
per month

Salary needed in Columbia to match your Duluth lifestyle

Based on the 1% cost of living increase between the two cities.

Your salary in DuluthEquivalent in Columbia
$40K$40,460
$50K$50,575
$60K$60,690
$75K$75,862
$80K$80,920
$100K$101,149
$120K$121,379
$150K$151,724

Monthly budget at $75K — Duluth vs Columbia

ExpenseDuluthColumbia
Monthly take-home$4,122$4,447
1BR rent$1,200$1,250
Groceries$369$365
Transport$60$45
Utilities$165$158
Internet$62$60
Left after essentials$2,266$2,569

Frequently asked questions

Is Columbia cheaper than Duluth?

No. Columbia has a cost of living index of 88 vs 87 for Duluth (100 = US average). That's about 1% more expensive.

How much will I save moving from Duluth to Columbia?

On a $75K salary, core expenses in Columbia run about $22/month more than Duluth. Factor this into your salary negotiation when relocating.

What salary do I need in Columbia to match my Duluth lifestyle?

To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Duluth, you'd need roughly $75,862/year in Columbia. 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