Moving from Melbourne to Charleston (2026)
Charleston has a COL index of 97 vs 110 for Melbourne (100 = US average). You'd pay about 12% less for the same lifestyle.
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Key differences
Salary needed in Charleston to match your Melbourne lifestyle
Based on the 12% cost of living decrease between the two cities.
| Your salary in Melbourne | Equivalent in Charleston |
|---|---|
| $40K | $35,273 |
| $50K | $44,091 |
| $60K | $52,909 |
| $75K | $66,136 |
| $80K | $70,545 |
| $100K | $88,182 |
| $120K | $105,818 |
| $150K | $132,273 |
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Monthly budget at $75K — Melbourne vs Charleston
| Expense | Melbourne | Charleston |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly take-home | $3,000 | $4,353 |
| 1BR rent | $1,600 | $1,900 |
| Groceries | $380 | $376 |
| Transport | $150 | $55 |
| Utilities | $130 | $162 |
| Internet | $62 | $63 |
| Left after essentials | $678 | $1,797 |
Frequently asked questions
Is Charleston cheaper than Melbourne?
Yes. Charleston has a cost of living index of 97 vs 110 for Melbourne (100 = US average). That's about 12% cheaper.
How much will I save moving from Melbourne to Charleston?
On a $75K salary, moving from Melbourne to Charleston saves roughly $2,125/month on core expenses. That's ~$25,500/year.
What salary do I need in Charleston to match my Melbourne lifestyle?
To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Melbourne, you'd need roughly $66,136/year in Charleston. 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 · BLS · Numbeo · For general guidance only