Columbia, MO vs Springfield, MO | Cost of Living Comparison
Are you gearing up for a big move? It's exciting, but let's talk numbers. The cost of living in your destination and your salary need to shake hands comfortably. That's where our cost of living calculator steps in.
It's like your financial crystal ball, showing if your budget will be grinning or groaning in your new city. Will you live comfortably in this new destination, or should you consider a Plan B? Let's find out together before you pack those boxes!
If your household income is $5,000 in Columbia, MO, you should have an income of $4,600 in Springfield, MO to maintain the same standard of living.
Columbia, MO is 8% less expensive than Springfield, MO according to the Cost of Living Index.
Moving from Columbia, MO to Springfield, MO, you can expect the following cost changes:
- Food will cost 2% less
- Housing will cost 13% less
- Transportation will cost 8% less
- Healthcare will cost 8% more
Below is a detailed price comparison of selected categories between Columbia, MO, and Springfield, MO.
Housing Cost
Thinking about housing costs? Here's a pro tip: try keeping them under 30% of your income. It's like trying to fit into your favorite jeans – a bit of a squeeze, but worth it. In your new city, if housing costs seem sky-high, don't sweat it. Just a little detour into nearby areas might lead you to more wallet-friendly rents or mortgage rates. It's all about finding that sweet spot where your bank account and living space are both happy.
| Columbia, MO | Springfield, MO | |
Median 2-bedroom apartment rent
|
$836 | $1,116 |
Median home price (3BR, 2BA)
|
$410,887 | $298,822 |
Transportation Costs
Let's roll into transportation costs. Whether you're a fan of driving or public transit is your jam, you've got to consider the numbers. Gas prices, bus fares, train tickets – they all add up. And if you're driving, think about traffic. It's not just about time; it's about fuel too. Remember, more traffic equals more gas, and that's more money. We'll help you map out these costs so your commute doesn't drive your budget off the road.
| Columbia, MO | Springfield, MO | |
Gas (per gallon)
|
$3.39 | $2.99 |
Food Costs
The cost of eating and drinking in your new city is a big deal. From your morning coffee run to your midnight snack, every bite counts. Are groceries and dining out going to nibble away at your budget, or will it be a feast of savings? Our calculator serves up the real deal on food and beverage costs, so you can plan your meals and your money.
| Columbia, MO | Springfield, MO | |
Bread
|
$3.15 | $3.10 |
Dozen eggs
|
$2.14 | $1.78 |
Gallon of milk
|
$2.83 | $2.34 |
12-inch Pizza Hut pizza
|
$11.24 | $10.10 |
McDonalds Quarter-Pounder with cheese
|
$5.11 | $5.20 |
Entertainment Costs
We could always use some fun; let's talk about entertainment costs. Whether you're a movie buff, a concert-goer, or a weekend adventurer, fun has its price tag. In your new city, will entertainment expenses be a blockbuster hit to your budget, or more like a low-budget indie? We dive into the numbers so your leisure time doesn't turn into a financial thriller.
| Columbia, MO | Springfield, MO | |
Movie ticket
|
$10.39 | $10.72 |
Yoga class
|
$15.46 | $16.80 |
6-pack Heineken beer
|
$8.97 | $9.08 |
Healthcare Costs
Healthcare – it's vital for peace of mind and quality of life. In some places, it's a bargain; in others, it's a big-ticket item. It's all about finding a place where your health and wallet can both stay in tip-top shape.
| Columbia, MO | Springfield, MO | |
Cost of a doctor's visit
|
$124.00 | $121.14 |
Cost of a dentist visit
|
$91.47 | $98.57 |
Cost of a optometrist visit
|
$109.95 | $123.81 |
Cost of lipitor
|
$417.48 | $509.56 |