Moving from Lincoln to Columbus (2026)

Columbus has a COL index of 91 vs 86 for Lincoln (100 = US average). Expect to pay about 6% more for the same lifestyle.

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

Change cities

Key differences

COL index
86 โ†’ 91
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$1,150 โ†’ $1,250
per month
State tax
5.8% โ†’ 3%
income tax
COL difference
86 โ†’ 91
6% more expensive

Salary needed in Columbus to match your Lincoln lifestyle

Based on the 6% cost of living increase between the two cities.

Your salary in LincolnEquivalent in Columbus
$40K$42,326
$50K$52,907
$60K$63,488
$75K$79,360
$80K$84,651
$100K$105,814
$120K$126,977
$150K$158,721

๐Ÿ’ต Household income (before tax)

$75K
$
$30K$300K
Pay ~$123/mo moreon core expenses at $75K

Monthly budget at $75K โ€” Lincoln vs Columbus

ExpenseLincolnColumbus
Monthly take-home$4,378$4,553
1BR rent$1,150$1,250
Groceries$357$361
Transport$48$62
Utilities$152$155
Internet$58$60
Left after essentials$2,613$2,665

Frequently asked questions

Is Columbus cheaper than Lincoln?

No. Columbus has a cost of living index of 91 vs 86 for Lincoln (100 = US average). That's about 6% more expensive.

How much will I save moving from Lincoln to Columbus?

On a $75K salary, moving from Lincoln to Columbus saves roughly $75/month on core expenses. That's ~$900/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 $79,360/year in Columbus. 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 ยท BLS ยท Numbeo ยท For general guidance only