Akron, OH vs Columbia, SC: 55 vs 80

$930/mo ↓ 20%

Median Rent

$1,158/mo ↑ 25%

$48,544/yr ↓ 13%

Median Income

$55,653/yr ↑ 15%

$111,200 ↓ 54%

Home Value

$243,500 ↑ 119%

$904/mo ↓ 23%

Owner Costs

$1,169/mo ↑ 29%

189,526

Population

138,019

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Akron, OH and Columbia, SC, the overall cost of living indices are 55 and 80 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $228/month cheaper in Akron, saving renters about $2,736/year.

Median household income is $7,109/year higher in Columbia. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Akron is $111,200 compared to $243,500 in Columbia.

Ohio has a lower income tax rate, making Akron slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Akron vs Columbia — common questions

Is Akron or Columbia cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Akron is cheaper to live in with an index of 55 compared to 80 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Akron and Columbia?

Median rent in Akron is $930/month and in Columbia it's $1,158/month — a difference of $228/month.

Which city has higher income, Akron or Columbia?

Median household income is $48,544 in Akron and $55,653 in Columbia. Median household income is $7,109/year higher in Columbia.

How do taxes compare between Ohio and South Carolina?

Ohio has 3.5% income tax, 5.75% sales tax, and 1.53% property tax. South Carolina has 6.4% income tax, 6.0% sales tax, and 0.57% property tax.

Should I move to Akron or Columbia?

It depends on your priorities. Akron has a cost index of 55 with median rent of $930/mo, while Columbia has a cost index of 80 with rent of $1,158/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Akron, OH vs Columbia, SC (2026)

Akron

Columbia

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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