Moving from Tokyo to Austin (2026)

Austin has a COL index of 122 vs 86 for Tokyo (100 = US average). Expect to pay about 43% more for the same lifestyle.

Pay ~$650 more/mo
on rent + taxes ยท $75K salary baseline

Change cities

Key differences

COL index
86 โ†’ 122
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$1,200 โ†’ $1,800
per month
State tax
20% โ†’ None
income tax
COL difference
86 โ†’ 122
43% more expensive

Salary needed in Austin to match your Tokyo lifestyle

Based on the 43% cost of living increase between the two cities.

Your salary in TokyoEquivalent in Austin
$40K$57,076
$50K$71,345
$60K$85,614
$75K$107,018
$80K$114,152
$100K$142,690
$120K$171,228
$150K$214,035

Adjust your salary

Pay ~$607/mo moreon core expenses at $75K

Monthly budget at $75K โ€” Tokyo vs Austin

ExpenseTokyoAustin
Monthly take-home$3,491$4,741
1BR rent$1,200$1,800
Groceries$380$372
Transport$150$50
Utilities$90$170
Internet$30$65
Left after essentials$1,641$2,284

Frequently asked questions

Is Austin cheaper than Tokyo?

No. Austin has a cost of living index of 122 vs 86 for Tokyo (100 = US average). That's about 43% more expensive.

How much will I save moving from Tokyo to Austin?

On a $75K salary, moving from Tokyo to Austin saves roughly $650/month on core expenses. That's ~$7,800/year.

What salary do I need in Austin to match my Tokyo lifestyle?

To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Tokyo, you'd need roughly $107,018/year in Austin. This is based on the overall COL index difference.

Estimates based on Q1 2026 COL index and market data. Budget uses simplified federal/state tax rates. Zillow ยท BLS ยท Numbeo ยท For general guidance only