Moving from Salem to Augusta (2026)
Augusta has a COL index of 85 vs 97 for Salem (100 = US average). You'd pay about 12% less for the same lifestyle.
Save ~$275/mo
on core expenses · $75K salary baseline
Key differences
COL index
9785
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$1,450$1,200
per month
State tax
9.9%5.5%
income tax
Take-home at $75K
$4,122$4,397
per month
Salary needed in Augusta to match your Salem lifestyle
Based on the 12% cost of living decrease between the two cities.
| Your salary in Salem | Equivalent in Augusta |
|---|---|
| $40K | $35,052 |
| $50K | $43,814 |
| $60K | $52,577 |
| $75K | $65,722 |
| $80K | $70,103 |
| $100K | $87,629 |
| $120K | $105,155 |
| $150K | $131,443 |
Monthly budget at $75K — Salem vs Augusta
| Expense | Salem | Augusta |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly take-home | $4,122 | $4,397 |
| 1BR rent | $1,450 | $1,200 |
| Groceries | $380 | $353 |
| Transport | $72 | $42 |
| Utilities | $125 | $162 |
| Internet | $63 | $58 |
| Left after essentials | $2,032 | $2,582 |
Frequently asked questions
Is Augusta cheaper than Salem?
Yes. Augusta has a cost of living index of 85 vs 97 for Salem (100 = US average). That's about 12% cheaper.
How much will I save moving from Salem to Augusta?
On a $75K salary, moving from Salem to Augusta could save roughly $275/month on core expenses. That's ~$3,300/year.
What salary do I need in Augusta to match my Salem lifestyle?
To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Salem, you'd need roughly $65,722/year in Augusta. This is based on the overall COL index difference between the two cities.
Moving from Augusta to SalemSalem vs Augusta — full comparisonSalem cost of livingAugusta 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