Moving from Lincoln to Mesa (2026)

Mesa has a COL index of 96 vs 86 for Lincoln (100 = US average). Expect to pay about 12% more for the same lifestyle.

Pay ~$44 more/mo
on rent + taxes ยท $75K salary baseline

Change cities

Key differences

COL index
86 โ†’ 96
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$1,150 โ†’ $1,400
per month
State tax
5.8% โ†’ 2.5%
income tax
COL difference
86 โ†’ 96
12% more expensive

Salary needed in Mesa to match your Lincoln lifestyle

Based on the 12% cost of living increase between the two cities.

Your salary in LincolnEquivalent in Mesa
$40K$44,651
$50K$55,814
$60K$66,977
$75K$83,721
$80K$89,302
$100K$111,628
$120K$133,953
$150K$167,442

๐Ÿ’ต Household income (before tax)

$75K
$
$30K$300K
Pay ~$329/mo moreon core expenses at $75K

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

ExpenseLincolnMesa
Monthly take-home$4,378$4,584
1BR rent$1,150$1,400
Groceries$357$369
Transport$48$55
Utilities$152$210
Internet$58$60
Left after essentials$2,613$2,490

Frequently asked questions

Is Mesa cheaper than Lincoln?

No. Mesa has a cost of living index of 96 vs 86 for Lincoln (100 = US average). That's about 12% more expensive.

How much will I save moving from Lincoln to Mesa?

On a $75K salary, core expenses in Mesa run about $44/month more than Lincoln. Factor this into your salary negotiation when relocating.

What salary do I need in Mesa to match my Lincoln lifestyle?

To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Lincoln, you'd need roughly $83,721/year in Mesa. 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