Columbia, SC vs Allen, TX: 80 vs 137

$1,158/mo ↓ 38%

Median Rent

$1,877/mo ↑ 62%

$55,653/yr ↓ 57%

Median Income

$129,130/yr ↑ 132%

$243,500 ↓ 43%

Home Value

$429,900 ↑ 77%

$1,169/mo ↓ 44%

Owner Costs

$2,083/mo ↑ 78%

138,019

Population

107,684

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Columbia, SC and Allen, TX, the overall cost of living indices are 80 and 137 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $719/month cheaper in Columbia, saving renters about $8,628/year.

Median household income is $73,477/year higher in Allen. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Columbia is $243,500 compared to $429,900 in Allen.

Texas has no state income tax, giving Allen residents a significant tax advantage over South Carolina's 6.4% rate.

Frequently Asked Questions

Columbia vs Allen — common questions

Is Columbia or Allen cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Columbia is cheaper to live in with an index of 80 compared to 137 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Columbia and Allen?

Median rent in Columbia is $1,158/month and in Allen it's $1,877/month — a difference of $719/month.

Which city has higher income, Columbia or Allen?

Median household income is $55,653 in Columbia and $129,130 in Allen. Median household income is $73,477/year higher in Allen.

How do taxes compare between South Carolina and Texas?

South Carolina has 6.4% income tax, 6.0% sales tax, and 0.57% property tax. Texas has 0% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 1.6% property tax.

Should I move to Columbia or Allen?

It depends on your priorities. Columbia has a cost index of 80 with median rent of $1,158/mo, while Allen has a cost index of 137 with rent of $1,877/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Columbia, SC vs Allen, TX (2026)

Columbia

Allen

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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