Moving from Jacksonville to Columbia (2026)
Columbia has a COL index of 88 vs 93 for Jacksonville (100 = US average). You'd pay about 5% less for the same lifestyle.
Key differences
Salary needed in Columbia to match your Jacksonville lifestyle
Based on the 5% cost of living decrease between the two cities.
| Your salary in Jacksonville | Equivalent in Columbia |
|---|---|
| $40K | $37,849 |
| $50K | $47,312 |
| $60K | $56,774 |
| $75K | $70,968 |
| $80K | $75,699 |
| $100K | $94,624 |
| $120K | $113,548 |
| $150K | $141,935 |
Monthly budget at $75K — Jacksonville vs Columbia
| Expense | Jacksonville | Columbia |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly take-home | $4,741 | $4,447 |
| 1BR rent | $1,650 | $1,250 |
| Groceries | $365 | $365 |
| Transport | $50 | $45 |
| Utilities | $190 | $158 |
| Internet | $62 | $60 |
| Left after essentials | $2,424 | $2,569 |
Frequently asked questions
Is Columbia cheaper than Jacksonville?
Yes. Columbia has a cost of living index of 88 vs 93 for Jacksonville (100 = US average). That's about 5% cheaper.
How much will I save moving from Jacksonville to Columbia?
On a $75K salary, moving from Jacksonville to Columbia could save roughly $439/month on core expenses. That's ~$5,268/year.
What salary do I need in Columbia to match my Jacksonville lifestyle?
To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Jacksonville, you'd need roughly $70,968/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