Columbia, SC vs Elizabeth, NJ: 80 vs 112

$1,158/mo ↓ 21%

Median Rent

$1,463/mo ↑ 26%

$55,653/yr ↓ 13%

Median Income

$63,874/yr ↑ 15%

$243,500 ↓ 38%

Home Value

$393,500 ↑ 62%

$1,169/mo ↓ 24%

Owner Costs

$1,543/mo ↑ 32%

138,019

Population

135,887

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Columbia, SC and Elizabeth, NJ, the overall cost of living indices are 80 and 112 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $305/month cheaper in Columbia, saving renters about $3,660/year.

Median household income is $8,221/year higher in Elizabeth. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Columbia is $243,500 compared to $393,500 in Elizabeth.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Columbia vs Elizabeth — common questions

Is Columbia or Elizabeth cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Columbia is cheaper to live in with an index of 80 compared to 112 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Columbia and Elizabeth?

Median rent in Columbia is $1,158/month and in Elizabeth it's $1,463/month — a difference of $305/month.

Which city has higher income, Columbia or Elizabeth?

Median household income is $55,653 in Columbia and $63,874 in Elizabeth. Median household income is $8,221/year higher in Elizabeth.

How do taxes compare between South Carolina and New Jersey?

South Carolina has 6.4% income tax, 6.0% sales tax, and 0.57% property tax. New Jersey has 10.75% income tax, 6.625% sales tax, and 2.23% property tax.

Should I move to Columbia or Elizabeth?

It depends on your priorities. Columbia has a cost index of 80 with median rent of $1,158/mo, while Elizabeth has a cost index of 112 with rent of $1,463/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Columbia, SC vs Elizabeth, NJ (2026)

Columbia

Elizabeth

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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