Moving from Washington to Richmond (2026)
Richmond has a COL index of 98 vs 153 for Washington (100 = US average). You'd pay about 36% less for the same lifestyle.
Key differences
Salary needed in Richmond to match your Washington lifestyle
Based on the 36% cost of living decrease between the two cities.
| Your salary in Washington | Equivalent in Richmond |
|---|---|
| $40K | $25,621 |
| $50K | $32,026 |
| $60K | $38,431 |
| $75K | $48,039 |
| $80K | $51,242 |
| $100K | $64,052 |
| $120K | $76,863 |
| $150K | $96,078 |
Monthly budget at $75K — Washington vs Richmond
| Expense | Washington | Richmond |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly take-home | $4,378 | $4,378 |
| 1BR rent | $3,100 | $1,600 |
| Groceries | $422 | $369 |
| Transport | $100 | $70 |
| Utilities | $190 | $155 |
| Internet | $75 | $60 |
| Left after essentials | $491 | $2,124 |
Frequently asked questions
Is Richmond cheaper than Washington?
Yes. Richmond has a cost of living index of 98 vs 153 for Washington (100 = US average). That's about 36% cheaper.
How much will I save moving from Washington to Richmond?
On a $75K salary, moving from Washington to Richmond could save roughly $1,633/month on core expenses. That's ~$19,596/year.
What salary do I need in Richmond to match my Washington lifestyle?
To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Washington, you'd need roughly $48,039/year in Richmond. 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