Moving from Madison to Augusta (2026)

Augusta has a COL index of 85 vs 97 for Madison (100 = US average). You'd pay about 12% less for the same lifestyle.

Save ~$506/mo
on core expenses · $75K salary baseline

Key differences

COL index
9785
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$1,650$1,200
per month
State tax
7.7%5.5%
income tax
Take-home at $75K
$4,259$4,397
per month

Salary needed in Augusta to match your Madison lifestyle

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

Your salary in MadisonEquivalent in Augusta
$40K$35,052
$50K$43,814
$60K$52,577
$75K$65,722
$80K$70,103
$100K$87,629
$120K$105,155
$150K$131,443

Monthly budget at $75K — Madison vs Augusta

ExpenseMadisonAugusta
Monthly take-home$4,259$4,397
1BR rent$1,650$1,200
Groceries$384$353
Transport$62$42
Utilities$162$162
Internet$63$58
Left after essentials$1,938$2,582

Frequently asked questions

Is Augusta cheaper than Madison?

Yes. Augusta has a cost of living index of 85 vs 97 for Madison (100 = US average). That's about 12% cheaper.

How much will I save moving from Madison to Augusta?

On a $75K salary, moving from Madison to Augusta could save roughly $506/month on core expenses. That's ~$6,072/year.

What salary do I need in Augusta to match my Madison lifestyle?

To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Madison, you'd need roughly $65,722/year in Augusta. 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