Moving from Flagstaff to Columbus (2026)
Columbus has a COL index of 83 vs 102 for Flagstaff (100 = US average). You'd pay about 19% less for the same lifestyle.
Key differences
Salary needed in Columbus to match your Flagstaff lifestyle
Based on the 19% cost of living decrease between the two cities.
| Your salary in Flagstaff | Equivalent in Columbus |
|---|---|
| $40K | $32,549 |
| $50K | $40,686 |
| $60K | $48,824 |
| $75K | $61,029 |
| $80K | $65,098 |
| $100K | $81,373 |
| $120K | $97,647 |
| $150K | $122,059 |
Monthly budget at $75K — Flagstaff vs Columbus
| Expense | Flagstaff | Columbus |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly take-home | $4,584 | $4,397 |
| 1BR rent | $1,650 | $1,100 |
| Groceries | $384 | $353 |
| Transport | $45 | $40 |
| Utilities | $195 | $160 |
| Internet | $65 | $58 |
| Left after essentials | $2,245 | $2,686 |
Frequently asked questions
Is Columbus cheaper than Flagstaff?
Yes. Columbus has a cost of living index of 83 vs 102 for Flagstaff (100 = US average). That's about 19% cheaper.
How much will I save moving from Flagstaff to Columbus?
On a $75K salary, moving from Flagstaff to Columbus could save roughly $628/month on core expenses. That's ~$7,536/year.
What salary do I need in Columbus to match my Flagstaff lifestyle?
To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Flagstaff, you'd need roughly $61,029/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