Moving from Columbus to Augusta (2026)

Augusta has a COL index of 85 vs 83 for Columbus (100 = US average). Expect to pay about 2% more for the same lifestyle.

Pay ~$100 more/mo
on rent + taxes ยท $75K salary baseline

Change cities

Key differences

COL index
83 โ†’ 85
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$1,100 โ†’ $1,200
per month
State tax
5.5% โ†’ 5.5%
income tax
COL difference
83 โ†’ 85
2% more expensive

Salary needed in Augusta to match your Columbus lifestyle

Based on the 2% cost of living increase between the two cities.

Your salary in ColumbusEquivalent in Augusta
$40K$40,964
$50K$51,205
$60K$61,446
$75K$76,807
$80K$81,928
$100K$102,410
$120K$122,892
$150K$153,614

๐Ÿ’ต Household income (before tax)

$75K
$
$30K$300K
Pay ~$104/mo moreon core expenses at $75K

Monthly budget at $75K โ€” Columbus vs Augusta

ExpenseColumbusAugusta
Monthly take-home$4,397$4,397
1BR rent$1,100$1,200
Groceries$353$353
Transport$40$42
Utilities$160$162
Internet$58$58
Left after essentials$2,686$2,582

Frequently asked questions

Is Augusta cheaper than Columbus?

No. Augusta has a cost of living index of 85 vs 83 for Columbus (100 = US average). That's about 2% more expensive.

How much will I save moving from Columbus to Augusta?

On a $75K salary, core expenses in Augusta run about $100/month more than Columbus. Factor this into your salary negotiation when relocating.

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

To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Columbus, you'd need roughly $76,807/year in Augusta. 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