Cost of Living: Augusta, GA vs Columbia, MO (2026)

Augusta

Georgia
67
VS

Columbia

Missouri
80

Augusta is 16% cheaper than Columbia.

$1,087/mo ↑ 2%
Median Rent
$1,067/mo ↓ 2%
$53,134/yr ↓ 18%
Median Income
$64,488/yr ↑ 21%
$162,900 ↓ 39%
Home Value
$268,300 ↑ 65%
$1,053/mo ↓ 5%
Owner Costs
$1,114/mo ↑ 6%
201,504
Population
127,200

Tax Comparison

5.49%
Income Tax
4.95%
4.0%
State Sales Tax
4.225%
0.92%
Property Tax
0.93%

Affordability

24.5%
rent-to-income
Affordability
19.9%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Augusta, GA and Columbia, MO, the overall cost of living indices are 67 and 80 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is comparable in both cities, with less than $50/month separating them.

Median household income is $11,354/year higher in Columbia. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Augusta is $162,900 compared to $268,300 in Columbia.

Missouri has a lower income tax rate, making Columbia slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Augusta vs Columbia — common questions

Is Augusta or Columbia cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Augusta is cheaper to live in with an index of 67 compared to 80 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Augusta and Columbia?
Median rent in Augusta is $1,087/month and in Columbia it's $1,067/month — a difference of $20/month.
Which city has higher income, Augusta or Columbia?
Median household income is $53,134 in Augusta and $64,488 in Columbia. Median household income is $11,354/year higher in Columbia.
How do taxes compare between Georgia and Missouri?
Georgia has 5.49% income tax, 4.0% sales tax, and 0.92% property tax. Missouri has 4.95% income tax, 4.225% sales tax, and 0.93% property tax.
Should I move to Augusta or Columbia?
It depends on your priorities. Augusta has a cost index of 67 with median rent of $1,087/mo, while Columbia has a cost index of 80 with rent of $1,067/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
View Augusta details → View Columbia details →

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