Moving from San Francisco to Columbus (2026)
Columbus has a COL index of 91 vs 194 for San Francisco (100 = US average). You'd pay about 53% less for the same lifestyle.
Key differences
Salary needed in Columbus to match your San Francisco lifestyle
Based on the 53% cost of living decrease between the two cities.
| Your salary in San Francisco | Equivalent in Columbus |
|---|---|
| $40K | $18,763 |
| $50K | $23,454 |
| $60K | $28,144 |
| $75K | $35,180 |
| $80K | $37,526 |
| $100K | $46,907 |
| $120K | $56,289 |
| $150K | $70,361 |
Monthly budget at $75K — San Francisco vs Columbus
| Expense | San Francisco | Columbus |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly take-home | $4,159 | $4,553 |
| 1BR rent | $3,600 | $1,250 |
| Groceries | $448 | $361 |
| Transport | $100 | $62 |
| Utilities | $160 | $155 |
| Internet | $70 | $60 |
| Left after essentials | $-219 | $2,665 |
Frequently asked questions
Is Columbus cheaper than San Francisco?
Yes. Columbus has a cost of living index of 91 vs 194 for San Francisco (100 = US average). That's about 53% cheaper.
How much will I save moving from San Francisco to Columbus?
On a $75K salary, moving from San Francisco to Columbus could save roughly $2,490/month on core expenses. That's ~$29,880/year.
What salary do I need in Columbus to match my San Francisco lifestyle?
To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in San Francisco, you'd need roughly $35,180/year in Columbus. 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