Columbia, SC vs Kent, WA: 80 vs 145

$1,158/mo ↓ 37%

Median Rent

$1,833/mo ↑ 58%

$55,653/yr ↓ 38%

Median Income

$90,416/yr ↑ 62%

$243,500 ↓ 55%

Home Value

$537,500 ↑ 121%

$1,169/mo ↓ 39%

Owner Costs

$1,915/mo ↑ 64%

138,019

Population

135,015

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Columbia, SC and Kent, WA, the overall cost of living indices are 80 and 145 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $675/month cheaper in Columbia, saving renters about $8,100/year.

Median household income is $34,763/year higher in Kent. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Columbia is $243,500 compared to $537,500 in Kent.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Columbia vs Kent — common questions

Is Columbia or Kent cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Columbia is cheaper to live in with an index of 80 compared to 145 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Columbia and Kent?

Median rent in Columbia is $1,158/month and in Kent it's $1,833/month — a difference of $675/month.

Which city has higher income, Columbia or Kent?

Median household income is $55,653 in Columbia and $90,416 in Kent. Median household income is $34,763/year higher in Kent.

How do taxes compare between South Carolina and Washington?

South Carolina has 6.4% income tax, 6.0% sales tax, and 0.57% property tax. Washington has 0% income tax, 6.5% sales tax, and 0.92% property tax.

Should I move to Columbia or Kent?

It depends on your priorities. Columbia has a cost index of 80 with median rent of $1,158/mo, while Kent has a cost index of 145 with rent of $1,833/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Columbia, SC vs Kent, WA (2026)

Columbia

Kent

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

More Comparisons