Moving from Houston to Lansing (2026)

Lansing has a COL index of 85 vs 95 for Houston (100 = US average). You'd pay about 11% less for the same lifestyle.

Save ~$203/mo
on core expenses · $75K salary baseline

Key differences

COL index
9585
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$1,350$1,200
per month
State tax
None4.1%
income tax
Take-home at $75K
$4,741$4,484
per month

Salary needed in Lansing to match your Houston lifestyle

Based on the 11% cost of living decrease between the two cities.

Your salary in HoustonEquivalent in Lansing
$40K$35,789
$50K$44,737
$60K$53,684
$75K$67,105
$80K$71,579
$100K$89,474
$120K$107,368
$150K$134,211

Monthly budget at $75K — Houston vs Lansing

ExpenseHoustonLansing
Monthly take-home$4,741$4,484
1BR rent$1,350$1,200
Groceries$357$361
Transport$90$55
Utilities$175$158
Internet$65$60
Left after essentials$2,704$2,650

Frequently asked questions

Is Lansing cheaper than Houston?

Yes. Lansing has a cost of living index of 85 vs 95 for Houston (100 = US average). That's about 11% cheaper.

How much will I save moving from Houston to Lansing?

On a $75K salary, moving from Houston to Lansing could save roughly $203/month on core expenses. That's ~$2,436/year.

What salary do I need in Lansing to match my Houston lifestyle?

To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Houston, you'd need roughly $67,105/year in Lansing. 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