Moving from Kraków to Charleston (2026)

Charleston has a COL index of 97 vs 55 for Kraków (100 = US average). Expect to pay about 76% more for the same lifestyle.

Pay ~$787 more/mo
on rent + taxes · $75K salary baseline

Change cities

Key differences

COL index
5597
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$750$1,900
per month
State tax
12%6.2%
income tax
COL difference
5597
76% more expensive

Salary needed in Charleston to match your Kraków lifestyle

Based on the 76% cost of living increase between the two cities.

Your salary in KrakówEquivalent in Charleston
$40K$70,545
$50K$88,182
$60K$105,818
$75K$132,273
$80K$141,091
$100K$176,364
$120K$211,636
$150K$264,545

Adjust your salary

Pay ~$1,161/mo moreon core expenses at $75K

Monthly budget at $75KKraków vs Charleston

ExpenseKrakówCharleston
Monthly take-home$3,991$4,353
1BR rent$750$1,900
Groceries$380$376
Transport$150$55
Utilities$90$162
Internet$25$63
Left after essentials$2,596$1,797

Frequently asked questions

Is Charleston cheaper than Kraków?

No. Charleston has a cost of living index of 97 vs 55 for Kraków (100 = US average). That's about 76% more expensive.

How much will I save moving from Kraków to Charleston?

On a $75K salary, core expenses in Charleston run about $787/month more than Kraków. Factor this into your salary negotiation when relocating.

What salary do I need in Charleston to match my Kraków lifestyle?

To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Kraków, you'd need roughly $132,273/year in Charleston. This is based on the overall COL index difference.

Estimates based on Q1 2026 COL index and market data. Budget uses simplified federal/state tax rates. Zillow · BLS · Numbeo · For general guidance only