Moving from Lincoln to Columbus (2026)
Columbus has a COL index of 83 vs 86 for Lincoln (100 = US average). You'd pay about 3% less for the same lifestyle.
Save ~$54/mo
on core expenses · $75K salary baseline
Key differences
COL index
8683
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$1,150$1,100
per month
State tax
5.8%5.5%
income tax
Take-home at $75K
$4,378$4,397
per month
Salary needed in Columbus to match your Lincoln lifestyle
Based on the 3% cost of living decrease between the two cities.
| Your salary in Lincoln | Equivalent in Columbus |
|---|---|
| $40K | $38,605 |
| $50K | $48,256 |
| $60K | $57,907 |
| $75K | $72,384 |
| $80K | $77,209 |
| $100K | $96,512 |
| $120K | $115,814 |
| $150K | $144,767 |
Monthly budget at $75K — Lincoln vs Columbus
| Expense | Lincoln | Columbus |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly take-home | $4,378 | $4,397 |
| 1BR rent | $1,150 | $1,100 |
| Groceries | $357 | $353 |
| Transport | $48 | $40 |
| Utilities | $152 | $160 |
| Internet | $58 | $58 |
| Left after essentials | $2,613 | $2,686 |
Frequently asked questions
Is Columbus cheaper than Lincoln?
Yes. Columbus has a cost of living index of 83 vs 86 for Lincoln (100 = US average). That's about 3% cheaper.
How much will I save moving from Lincoln to Columbus?
On a $75K salary, moving from Lincoln to Columbus could save roughly $54/month on core expenses. That's ~$648/year.
What salary do I need in Columbus to match my Lincoln lifestyle?
To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Lincoln, you'd need roughly $72,384/year in Columbus. This is based on the overall COL index difference between the two cities.
Moving from Columbus to LincolnLincoln vs Columbus — full comparisonLincoln cost of livingColumbus cost of living
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