Moving from Tampa to Columbus (2026)

Columbus has a COL index of 83 vs 104 for Tampa (100 = US average). You'd pay about 20% less for the same lifestyle.

Save ~$990/mo
on core expenses · $75K salary baseline

Key differences

COL index
10483
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$2,000$1,100
per month
State tax
None5.5%
income tax
Take-home at $75K
$4,741$4,397
per month

Salary needed in Columbus to match your Tampa lifestyle

Based on the 20% cost of living decrease between the two cities.

Your salary in TampaEquivalent in Columbus
$40K$31,923
$50K$39,904
$60K$47,885
$75K$59,856
$80K$63,846
$100K$79,808
$120K$95,769
$150K$119,712

Monthly budget at $75K — Tampa vs Columbus

ExpenseTampaColumbus
Monthly take-home$4,741$4,397
1BR rent$2,000$1,100
Groceries$376$353
Transport$65$40
Utilities$195$160
Internet$65$58
Left after essentials$2,040$2,686

Frequently asked questions

Is Columbus cheaper than Tampa?

Yes. Columbus has a cost of living index of 83 vs 104 for Tampa (100 = US average). That's about 20% cheaper.

How much will I save moving from Tampa to Columbus?

On a $75K salary, moving from Tampa to Columbus could save roughly $990/month on core expenses. That's ~$11,880/year.

What salary do I need in Columbus to match my Tampa lifestyle?

To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Tampa, you'd need roughly $59,856/year in Columbus. 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