Columbia, SC vs Downey, CA: 80 vs 169

$1,158/mo ↓ 39%

Median Rent

$1,892/mo ↑ 63%

$55,653/yr ↓ 36%

Median Income

$87,400/yr ↑ 57%

$243,500 ↓ 67%

Home Value

$728,500 ↑ 199%

$1,169/mo ↓ 41%

Owner Costs

$1,997/mo ↑ 71%

138,019

Population

111,793

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Columbia, SC and Downey, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 80 and 169 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $734/month cheaper in Columbia, saving renters about $8,808/year.

Median household income is $31,747/year higher in Downey. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Columbia is $243,500 compared to $728,500 in Downey.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Columbia vs Downey — common questions

Is Columbia or Downey cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Columbia is cheaper to live in with an index of 80 compared to 169 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Columbia and Downey?

Median rent in Columbia is $1,158/month and in Downey it's $1,892/month — a difference of $734/month.

Which city has higher income, Columbia or Downey?

Median household income is $55,653 in Columbia and $87,400 in Downey. Median household income is $31,747/year higher in Downey.

How do taxes compare between South Carolina and California?

South Carolina has 6.4% income tax, 6.0% sales tax, and 0.57% property tax. California has 13.3% income tax, 7.25% sales tax, and 0.71% property tax.

Should I move to Columbia or Downey?

It depends on your priorities. Columbia has a cost index of 80 with median rent of $1,158/mo, while Downey has a cost index of 169 with rent of $1,892/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Columbia, SC vs Downey, CA (2026)

Columbia

Downey

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

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