Moving from Raleigh to Columbus (2026)
Columbus has a COL index of 83 vs 101 for Raleigh (100 = US average). You'd pay about 18% less for the same lifestyle.
Save ~$634/mo
on core expenses · $75K salary baseline
Key differences
COL index
10183
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$1,700$1,100
per month
State tax
4.5%5.5%
income tax
Take-home at $75K
$4,459$4,397
per month
Salary needed in Columbus to match your Raleigh lifestyle
Based on the 18% cost of living decrease between the two cities.
| Your salary in Raleigh | Equivalent in Columbus |
|---|---|
| $40K | $32,871 |
| $50K | $41,089 |
| $60K | $49,307 |
| $75K | $61,634 |
| $80K | $65,743 |
| $100K | $82,178 |
| $120K | $98,614 |
| $150K | $123,267 |
Monthly budget at $75K — Raleigh vs Columbus
| Expense | Raleigh | Columbus |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly take-home | $4,459 | $4,397 |
| 1BR rent | $1,700 | $1,100 |
| Groceries | $365 | $353 |
| Transport | $70 | $40 |
| Utilities | $150 | $160 |
| Internet | $60 | $58 |
| Left after essentials | $2,114 | $2,686 |
Frequently asked questions
Is Columbus cheaper than Raleigh?
Yes. Columbus has a cost of living index of 83 vs 101 for Raleigh (100 = US average). That's about 18% cheaper.
How much will I save moving from Raleigh to Columbus?
On a $75K salary, moving from Raleigh to Columbus could save roughly $634/month on core expenses. That's ~$7,608/year.
What salary do I need in Columbus to match my Raleigh lifestyle?
To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Raleigh, you'd need roughly $61,634/year in Columbus. This is based on the overall COL index difference between the two cities.
Moving from Columbus to RaleighRaleigh vs Columbus — full comparisonRaleigh cost of livingColumbus cost of living
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