Moving from Tempe to Columbus (2026)
Columbus has a COL index of 91 vs 103 for Tempe (100 = US average). You'd pay about 12% less for the same lifestyle.
Save ~$419/mo
on core expenses · $75K salary baseline
Key differences
COL index
10391
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$1,600$1,250
per month
State tax
2.5%3%
income tax
Take-home at $75K
$4,584$4,553
per month
Salary needed in Columbus to match your Tempe lifestyle
Based on the 12% cost of living decrease between the two cities.
| Your salary in Tempe | Equivalent in Columbus |
|---|---|
| $40K | $35,340 |
| $50K | $44,175 |
| $60K | $53,010 |
| $75K | $66,262 |
| $80K | $70,680 |
| $100K | $88,350 |
| $120K | $106,019 |
| $150K | $132,524 |
Monthly budget at $75K — Tempe vs Columbus
| Expense | Tempe | Columbus |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly take-home | $4,584 | $4,553 |
| 1BR rent | $1,600 | $1,250 |
| Groceries | $380 | $361 |
| Transport | $55 | $62 |
| Utilities | $210 | $155 |
| Internet | $62 | $60 |
| Left after essentials | $2,277 | $2,665 |
Frequently asked questions
Is Columbus cheaper than Tempe?
Yes. Columbus has a cost of living index of 91 vs 103 for Tempe (100 = US average). That's about 12% cheaper.
How much will I save moving from Tempe to Columbus?
On a $75K salary, moving from Tempe to Columbus could save roughly $419/month on core expenses. That's ~$5,028/year.
What salary do I need in Columbus to match my Tempe lifestyle?
To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Tempe, you'd need roughly $66,262/year in Columbus. This is based on the overall COL index difference between the two cities.
Moving from Columbus to TempeTempe vs Columbus — full comparisonTempe cost of livingColumbus cost of living
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