Moving from St. Paul to Tampa (2026)

Tampa has a COL index of 104 vs 97 for St. Paul (100 = US average). Expect to pay about 7% more for the same lifestyle.

Pay ~$464 more/mo
on core expenses · $75K salary baseline

Key differences

COL index
97104
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$1,500$2,000
per month
State tax
9.9%None
income tax
Take-home at $75K
$4,122$4,741
per month

Salary needed in Tampa to match your St. Paul lifestyle

Based on the 7% cost of living increase between the two cities.

Your salary in St. PaulEquivalent in Tampa
$40K$42,887
$50K$53,608
$60K$64,330
$75K$80,412
$80K$85,773
$100K$107,216
$120K$128,660
$150K$160,825

Monthly budget at $75K — St. Paul vs Tampa

ExpenseSt. PaulTampa
Monthly take-home$4,122$4,741
1BR rent$1,500$2,000
Groceries$384$376
Transport$95$65
Utilities$195$195
Internet$63$65
Left after essentials$1,885$2,040

Frequently asked questions

Is Tampa cheaper than St. Paul?

No. Tampa has a cost of living index of 104 vs 97 for St. Paul (100 = US average). That's about 7% more expensive.

How much will I save moving from St. Paul to Tampa?

On a $75K salary, core expenses in Tampa run about $464/month more than St. Paul. Factor this into your salary negotiation when relocating.

What salary do I need in Tampa to match my St. Paul lifestyle?

To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in St. Paul, you'd need roughly $80,412/year in Tampa. 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