Moving from Sofia to Charleston (2026)

Charleston has a COL index of 97 vs 48 for Sofia (100 = US average). Expect to pay about 102% more for the same lifestyle.

Pay ~$1,122 more/mo
on rent + taxes ยท $75K salary baseline

Change cities

Key differences

COL index
48 โ†’ 97
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$540 โ†’ $1,900
per month
State tax
10% โ†’ 6.2%
income tax
COL difference
48 โ†’ 97
102% more expensive

Salary needed in Charleston to match your Sofia lifestyle

Based on the 102% cost of living increase between the two cities.

Your salary in SofiaEquivalent in Charleston
$40K$80,833
$50K$101,042
$60K$121,250
$75K$151,563
$80K$161,667
$100K$202,083
$120K$242,500
$150K$303,125

Adjust your salary

Pay ~$1,391/mo moreon core expenses at $75K

Monthly budget at $75K โ€” Sofia vs Charleston

ExpenseSofiaCharleston
Monthly take-home$4,116$4,353
1BR rent$540$1,900
Groceries$380$376
Transport$150$55
Utilities$75$162
Internet$20$63
Left after essentials$2,951$1,797

Frequently asked questions

Is Charleston cheaper than Sofia?

No. Charleston has a cost of living index of 97 vs 48 for Sofia (100 = US average). That's about 102% more expensive.

How much will I save moving from Sofia to Charleston?

On a $75K salary, core expenses in Charleston run about $1,122/month more than Sofia. Factor this into your salary negotiation when relocating.

What salary do I need in Charleston to match my Sofia lifestyle?

To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Sofia, you'd need roughly $151,563/year in Charleston. 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