Columbia, SC vs Elgin, IL: 80 vs 90

$1,158/mo ↓ 8%

Median Rent

$1,260/mo ↑ 9%

$55,653/yr ↓ 37%

Median Income

$88,316/yr ↑ 59%

$243,500 ↓ 4%

Home Value

$252,400 ↑ 4%

$1,169/mo ↓ 22%

Owner Costs

$1,502/mo ↑ 28%

138,019

Population

114,106

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Columbia, SC and Elgin, IL, the overall cost of living indices are 80 and 90 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $102/month cheaper in Columbia, saving renters about $1,224/year.

Median household income is $32,663/year higher in Elgin. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Columbia is $243,500 compared to $252,400 in Elgin.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Columbia vs Elgin — common questions

Is Columbia or Elgin cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Columbia is cheaper to live in with an index of 80 compared to 90 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Columbia and Elgin?

Median rent in Columbia is $1,158/month and in Elgin it's $1,260/month — a difference of $102/month.

Which city has higher income, Columbia or Elgin?

Median household income is $55,653 in Columbia and $88,316 in Elgin. Median household income is $32,663/year higher in Elgin.

How do taxes compare between South Carolina and Illinois?

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

Should I move to Columbia or Elgin?

It depends on your priorities. Columbia has a cost index of 80 with median rent of $1,158/mo, while Elgin has a cost index of 90 with rent of $1,260/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Columbia, SC vs Elgin, IL (2026)

Columbia

Elgin

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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