Moving from Melbourne to Medellín (2026)

Medellín has a COL index of 35 vs 110 for Melbourne (100 = US average). You'd pay about 68% less for the same lifestyle.

Save ~$3,913/mo
on rent + taxes · $75K salary baseline

Change cities

Key differences

COL index
11035
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$1,600$500
per month
State tax
45%None
income tax
COL difference
11035
68% cheaper

Salary needed in Medellín to match your Melbourne lifestyle

Based on the 68% cost of living decrease between the two cities.

Your salary in MelbourneEquivalent in Medellín
$40K$12,727
$50K$15,909
$60K$19,091
$75K$23,864
$80K$25,455
$100K$31,818
$120K$38,182
$150K$47,727

Adjust your salary

Save ~$1,207/moon core expenses at $75K

Monthly budget at $75KMelbourne vs Medellín

ExpenseMelbourneMedellín
Monthly take-home$3,000$4,741
1BR rent$1,600$500
Groceries$380$380
Transport$150$150
Utilities$130$55
Internet$62$30
Left after essentials$678$3,626

30-Year Wealth Builder

If you invest your monthly savings of $1,207 in a low-cost index fund (7% avg return), you'd accumulate an extra:

$1,472,505

over 30 years compared to staying in Melbourne — that's the real price of a city.

$1,207/mo invested

Frequently asked questions

Is Medellín cheaper than Melbourne?

Yes. Medellín has a cost of living index of 35 vs 110 for Melbourne (100 = US average). That's about 68% cheaper.

How much will I save moving from Melbourne to Medellín?

On a $75K salary, moving from Melbourne to Medellín saves roughly $3,913/month on core expenses. That's ~$46,956/year.

What salary do I need in Medellín to match my Melbourne lifestyle?

To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Melbourne, you'd need roughly $23,864/year in Medellín. 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