Augusta, GA vs Columbia, SC: 67 vs 80

$1,087/mo ↓ 6%

Median Rent

$1,158/mo ↑ 7%

$53,134/yr ↓ 5%

Median Income

$55,653/yr ↑ 5%

$162,900 ↓ 33%

Home Value

$243,500 ↑ 49%

$1,053/mo ↓ 10%

Owner Costs

$1,169/mo ↑ 11%

201,504

Population

138,019

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Augusta, GA and Columbia, SC, the overall cost of living indices are 67 and 80 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $71/month cheaper in Augusta, saving renters about $852/year.

Median household income is $2,519/year higher in Columbia. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Augusta is $162,900 compared to $243,500 in Columbia.

Georgia has a lower income tax rate, making Augusta 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 $1,158/month — a difference of $71/month.

Which city has higher income, Augusta or Columbia?

Median household income is $53,134 in Augusta and $55,653 in Columbia. Median household income is $2,519/year higher in Columbia.

How do taxes compare between Georgia and South Carolina?

Georgia has 5.49% income tax, 4.0% sales tax, and 0.92% property tax. South Carolina has 6.4% income tax, 6.0% sales tax, and 0.57% 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 $1,158/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

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

Augusta

Columbia

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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