Moving from St. George to Columbia (2026)

Columbia has a COL index of 88 vs 96 for St. George (100 = US average). You'd pay about 8% less for the same lifestyle.

Save ~$45/mo
on core expenses · $75K salary baseline

Key differences

COL index
9688
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$1,300$1,250
per month
State tax
4.7%4.7%
income tax
Take-home at $75K
$4,447$4,447
per month

Salary needed in Columbia to match your St. George lifestyle

Based on the 8% cost of living decrease between the two cities.

Your salary in St. GeorgeEquivalent in Columbia
$40K$36,667
$50K$45,833
$60K$55,000
$75K$68,750
$80K$73,333
$100K$91,667
$120K$110,000
$150K$137,500

Monthly budget at $75K — St. George vs Columbia

ExpenseSt. GeorgeColumbia
Monthly take-home$4,447$4,447
1BR rent$1,300$1,250
Groceries$372$365
Transport$40$45
Utilities$148$158
Internet$63$60
Left after essentials$2,524$2,569

Frequently asked questions

Is Columbia cheaper than St. George?

Yes. Columbia has a cost of living index of 88 vs 96 for St. George (100 = US average). That's about 8% cheaper.

How much will I save moving from St. George to Columbia?

On a $75K salary, moving from St. George to Columbia could save roughly $45/month on core expenses. That's ~$540/year.

What salary do I need in Columbia to match my St. George lifestyle?

To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in St. George, you'd need roughly $68,750/year in Columbia. 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