Chicago, IL vs Columbia, SC: 100 vs 80

$1,380/mo ↑ 19%

Median Rent

$1,158/mo ↓ 16%

$75,134/yr ↑ 35%

Median Income

$55,653/yr ↓ 26%

$315,200 ↑ 29%

Home Value

$243,500 ↓ 23%

$1,502/mo ↑ 28%

Owner Costs

$1,169/mo ↓ 22%

2,707,648

Population

138,019

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Chicago, IL and Columbia, SC, the overall cost of living indices are 100 and 80 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $222/month cheaper in Columbia, saving renters about $2,664/year.

Median household income is $19,481/year higher in Chicago. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Chicago is $315,200 compared to $243,500 in Columbia.

Illinois has a lower income tax rate, making Chicago slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Chicago vs Columbia — common questions

Is Chicago or Columbia cheaper to live in?

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

What is the rent difference between Chicago and Columbia?

Median rent in Chicago is $1,380/month and in Columbia it's $1,158/month — a difference of $222/month.

Which city has higher income, Chicago or Columbia?

Median household income is $75,134 in Chicago and $55,653 in Columbia. Median household income is $19,481/year higher in Chicago.

How do taxes compare between Illinois and South Carolina?

Illinois has 4.95% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 2.07% property tax. South Carolina has 6.4% income tax, 6.0% sales tax, and 0.57% property tax.

Should I move to Chicago or Columbia?

It depends on your priorities. Chicago has a cost index of 100 with median rent of $1,380/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: Chicago, IL vs Columbia, SC (2026)

Chicago

Columbia

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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