Moving from Lexington to Columbia (2026)
Columbia has a COL index of 88 vs 89 for Lexington (100 = US average). You'd pay about 1% less for the same lifestyle.
Key differences
Salary needed in Columbia to match your Lexington lifestyle
Based on the 1% cost of living decrease between the two cities.
| Your salary in Lexington | Equivalent in Columbia |
|---|---|
| $40K | $39,551 |
| $50K | $49,438 |
| $60K | $59,326 |
| $75K | $74,157 |
| $80K | $79,101 |
| $100K | $98,876 |
| $120K | $118,652 |
| $150K | $148,315 |
Monthly budget at $75K — Lexington vs Columbia
| Expense | Lexington | Columbia |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly take-home | $4,491 | $4,447 |
| 1BR rent | $1,350 | $1,250 |
| Groceries | $365 | $365 |
| Transport | $60 | $45 |
| Utilities | $158 | $158 |
| Internet | $60 | $60 |
| Left after essentials | $2,498 | $2,569 |
Frequently asked questions
Is Columbia cheaper than Lexington?
Yes. Columbia has a cost of living index of 88 vs 89 for Lexington (100 = US average). That's about 1% cheaper.
How much will I save moving from Lexington to Columbia?
On a $75K salary, moving from Lexington to Columbia could save roughly $115/month on core expenses. That's ~$1,380/year.
What salary do I need in Columbia to match my Lexington lifestyle?
To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Lexington, you'd need roughly $74,157/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