Moving from Spokane to Austin (2026)

Austin has a COL index of 122 vs 91 for Spokane (100 = US average). Expect to pay about 34% more for the same lifestyle.

Pay ~$446 more/mo
on core expenses · $75K salary baseline

Key differences

COL index
91122
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$1,400$1,800
per month
State tax
NoneNone
income tax
Take-home at $75K
$4,741$4,741
per month

Salary needed in Austin to match your Spokane lifestyle

Based on the 34% cost of living increase between the two cities.

Your salary in SpokaneEquivalent in Austin
$40K$53,626
$50K$67,033
$60K$80,440
$75K$100,549
$80K$107,253
$100K$134,066
$120K$160,879
$150K$201,099

Monthly budget at $75K — Spokane vs Austin

ExpenseSpokaneAustin
Monthly take-home$4,741$4,741
1BR rent$1,400$1,800
Groceries$372$372
Transport$62$50
Utilities$115$170
Internet$62$65
Left after essentials$2,730$2,284

Frequently asked questions

Is Austin cheaper than Spokane?

No. Austin has a cost of living index of 122 vs 91 for Spokane (100 = US average). That's about 34% more expensive.

How much will I save moving from Spokane to Austin?

On a $75K salary, core expenses in Austin run about $446/month more than Spokane. Factor this into your salary negotiation when relocating.

What salary do I need in Austin to match my Spokane lifestyle?

To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Spokane, you'd need roughly $100,549/year in Austin. 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