Moving from Philadelphia to Nashville (2026)

Nashville has a COL index of 112 vs 107 for Philadelphia (100 = US average). Expect to pay about 5% more for the same lifestyle.

Pay ~$247 more/mo
on core expenses · $75K salary baseline

Key differences

COL index
107112
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$2,000$1,800
per month
State tax
3.1%None
income tax
Take-home at $75K
$4,547$4,741
per month

Salary needed in Nashville to match your Philadelphia lifestyle

Based on the 5% cost of living increase between the two cities.

Your salary in PhiladelphiaEquivalent in Nashville
$40K$41,869
$50K$52,336
$60K$62,804
$75K$78,505
$80K$83,738
$100K$104,673
$120K$125,607
$150K$157,009

Monthly budget at $75K — Philadelphia vs Nashville

ExpensePhiladelphiaNashville
Monthly take-home$4,547$4,741
1BR rent$2,000$1,800
Groceries$391$365
Transport$96$70
Utilities$160$170
Internet$65$60
Left after essentials$1,835$2,276

Frequently asked questions

Is Nashville cheaper than Philadelphia?

No. Nashville has a cost of living index of 112 vs 107 for Philadelphia (100 = US average). That's about 5% more expensive.

How much will I save moving from Philadelphia to Nashville?

On a $75K salary, moving from Philadelphia to Nashville could save roughly $247/month on core expenses. That's ~$2,964/year.

What salary do I need in Nashville to match my Philadelphia lifestyle?

To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Philadelphia, you'd need roughly $78,505/year in Nashville. 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