Columbia, SC vs Fairfield, CA: 80 vs 167

$1,158/mo ↓ 47%

Median Rent

$2,191/mo ↑ 89%

$55,653/yr ↓ 46%

Median Income

$102,321/yr ↑ 84%

$243,500 ↓ 59%

Home Value

$592,500 ↑ 143%

$1,169/mo ↓ 47%

Owner Costs

$2,226/mo ↑ 90%

138,019

Population

119,985

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Columbia, SC and Fairfield, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 80 and 167 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $1,033/month cheaper in Columbia, saving renters about $12,396/year.

Median household income is $46,668/year higher in Fairfield. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Columbia is $243,500 compared to $592,500 in Fairfield.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Columbia vs Fairfield — common questions

Is Columbia or Fairfield cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Columbia is cheaper to live in with an index of 80 compared to 167 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Columbia and Fairfield?

Median rent in Columbia is $1,158/month and in Fairfield it's $2,191/month — a difference of $1,033/month.

Which city has higher income, Columbia or Fairfield?

Median household income is $55,653 in Columbia and $102,321 in Fairfield. Median household income is $46,668/year higher in Fairfield.

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 Fairfield?

It depends on your priorities. Columbia has a cost index of 80 with median rent of $1,158/mo, while Fairfield has a cost index of 167 with rent of $2,191/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

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

Columbia

Fairfield

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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