Moving from Springfield to Charleston (2026)

Charleston has a COL index of 97 vs 98 for Springfield (100 = US average). You'd pay about 1% less for the same lifestyle.

Save ~$393/mo
on core expenses · $75K salary baseline

Key differences

COL index
9897
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$1,450$1,900
per month
State tax
5%6.2%
income tax
Take-home at $75K
$4,428$4,353
per month

Salary needed in Charleston to match your Springfield lifestyle

Based on the 1% cost of living decrease between the two cities.

Your salary in SpringfieldEquivalent in Charleston
$40K$39,592
$50K$49,490
$60K$59,388
$75K$74,235
$80K$79,184
$100K$98,980
$120K$118,776
$150K$148,469

Monthly budget at $75K — Springfield vs Charleston

ExpenseSpringfieldCharleston
Monthly take-home$4,428$4,353
1BR rent$1,450$1,900
Groceries$391$376
Transport$72$55
Utilities$185$162
Internet$65$63
Left after essentials$2,265$1,797

Frequently asked questions

Is Charleston cheaper than Springfield?

Yes. Charleston has a cost of living index of 97 vs 98 for Springfield (100 = US average). That's about 1% cheaper.

How much will I save moving from Springfield to Charleston?

On a $75K salary, core expenses in Charleston run about $393/month more than Springfield. Factor this into your salary negotiation when relocating.

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

To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Springfield, you'd need roughly $74,235/year in Charleston. 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