Columbia, SC vs Brandon, FL: 80 vs 108

$1,158/mo ↓ 32%

Median Rent

$1,691/mo ↑ 46%

$55,653/yr ↓ 28%

Median Income

$77,068/yr ↑ 38%

$243,500 ↓ 17%

Home Value

$293,800 ↑ 21%

$1,169/mo ↓ 24%

Owner Costs

$1,546/mo ↑ 32%

138,019

Population

116,365

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Columbia, SC and Brandon, FL, the overall cost of living indices are 80 and 108 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $533/month cheaper in Columbia, saving renters about $6,396/year.

Median household income is $21,415/year higher in Brandon. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Columbia is $243,500 compared to $293,800 in Brandon.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Columbia vs Brandon — common questions

Is Columbia or Brandon cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Columbia is cheaper to live in with an index of 80 compared to 108 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Columbia and Brandon?

Median rent in Columbia is $1,158/month and in Brandon it's $1,691/month — a difference of $533/month.

Which city has higher income, Columbia or Brandon?

Median household income is $55,653 in Columbia and $77,068 in Brandon. Median household income is $21,415/year higher in Brandon.

How do taxes compare between South Carolina and Florida?

South Carolina has 6.4% income tax, 6.0% sales tax, and 0.57% property tax. Florida has 0% income tax, 6.0% sales tax, and 0.86% property tax.

Should I move to Columbia or Brandon?

It depends on your priorities. Columbia has a cost index of 80 with median rent of $1,158/mo, while Brandon has a cost index of 108 with rent of $1,691/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Columbia, SC vs Brandon, FL (2026)

Columbia

Brandon

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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