Buffalo, NY vs Columbia, SC: 61 vs 80

$989/mo ↓ 15%

Median Rent

$1,158/mo ↑ 17%

$48,050/yr ↓ 14%

Median Income

$55,653/yr ↑ 16%

$152,300 ↓ 37%

Home Value

$243,500 ↑ 60%

$929/mo ↓ 21%

Owner Costs

$1,169/mo ↑ 26%

276,397

Population

138,019

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Buffalo, NY and Columbia, SC, the overall cost of living indices are 61 and 80 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $169/month cheaper in Buffalo, saving renters about $2,028/year.

Median household income is $7,603/year higher in Columbia. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Buffalo is $152,300 compared to $243,500 in Columbia.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Buffalo vs Columbia — common questions

Is Buffalo or Columbia cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Buffalo is cheaper to live in with an index of 61 compared to 80 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Buffalo and Columbia?

Median rent in Buffalo is $989/month and in Columbia it's $1,158/month — a difference of $169/month.

Which city has higher income, Buffalo or Columbia?

Median household income is $48,050 in Buffalo and $55,653 in Columbia. Median household income is $7,603/year higher in Columbia.

How do taxes compare between New York and South Carolina?

New York has 10.9% income tax, 4.0% sales tax, and 1.62% property tax. South Carolina has 6.4% income tax, 6.0% sales tax, and 0.57% property tax.

Should I move to Buffalo or Columbia?

It depends on your priorities. Buffalo has a cost index of 61 with median rent of $989/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: Buffalo, NY vs Columbia, SC (2026)

Buffalo

Columbia

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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