Boston, MA vs Columbia, SC: 176 vs 80

$2,093/mo ↑ 81%

Median Rent

$1,158/mo ↓ 45%

$94,755/yr ↑ 70%

Median Income

$55,653/yr ↓ 41%

$710,400 ↑ 192%

Home Value

$243,500 ↓ 66%

$2,176/mo ↑ 86%

Owner Costs

$1,169/mo ↓ 46%

663,972

Population

138,019

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Boston, MA and Columbia, SC, the overall cost of living indices are 176 and 80 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $935/month cheaper in Columbia, saving renters about $11,220/year.

Median household income is $39,102/year higher in Boston. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Boston is $710,400 compared to $243,500 in Columbia.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Boston vs Columbia — common questions

Is Boston or Columbia cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Columbia is cheaper to live in with an index of 80 compared to 176 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Boston and Columbia?

Median rent in Boston is $2,093/month and in Columbia it's $1,158/month — a difference of $935/month.

Which city has higher income, Boston or Columbia?

Median household income is $94,755 in Boston and $55,653 in Columbia. Median household income is $39,102/year higher in Boston.

How do taxes compare between Massachusetts and South Carolina?

Massachusetts has 9.0% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 1.15% property tax. South Carolina has 6.4% income tax, 6.0% sales tax, and 0.57% property tax.

Should I move to Boston or Columbia?

It depends on your priorities. Boston has a cost index of 176 with median rent of $2,093/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: Boston, MA vs Columbia, SC (2026)

Boston

Columbia

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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