Moving from Penang to Oaxaca (2026)

Oaxaca has a COL index of 32 vs 44 for Penang (100 = US average). You'd pay about 26% less for the same lifestyle.

Save ~$60/mo
on rent + taxes ยท $75K salary baseline

Change cities

Key differences

COL index
44 โ†’ 32
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$460 โ†’ $400
per month
State tax
None โ†’ None
income tax
COL difference
44 โ†’ 32
26% cheaper

Salary needed in Oaxaca to match your Penang lifestyle

Based on the 26% cost of living decrease between the two cities.

Your salary in PenangEquivalent in Oaxaca
$40K$29,425
$50K$36,782
$60K$44,138
$75K$55,172
$80K$58,851
$100K$73,563
$120K$88,276
$150K$110,345

Adjust your salary

Save ~$67/moon core expenses at $75K

Monthly budget at $75K โ€” Penang vs Oaxaca

ExpensePenangOaxaca
Monthly take-home$4,741$4,741
1BR rent$460$400
Groceries$380$380
Transport$150$150
Utilities$55$45
Internet$22$25
Left after essentials$3,674$3,741

Frequently asked questions

Is Oaxaca cheaper than Penang?

Yes. Oaxaca has a cost of living index of 32 vs 44 for Penang (100 = US average). That's about 26% cheaper.

How much will I save moving from Penang to Oaxaca?

On a $75K salary, moving from Penang to Oaxaca saves roughly $60/month on core expenses. That's ~$720/year.

What salary do I need in Oaxaca to match my Penang lifestyle?

To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Penang, you'd need roughly $55,172/year in Oaxaca. 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