Columbia, SC vs Lowell, MA: 80 vs 119

$1,158/mo ↓ 28%

Median Rent

$1,603/mo ↑ 38%

$55,653/yr ↓ 27%

Median Income

$76,205/yr ↑ 37%

$243,500 ↓ 38%

Home Value

$395,100 ↑ 62%

$1,169/mo ↓ 30%

Owner Costs

$1,672/mo ↑ 43%

138,019

Population

114,799

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Columbia, SC and Lowell, MA, the overall cost of living indices are 80 and 119 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $445/month cheaper in Columbia, saving renters about $5,340/year.

Median household income is $20,552/year higher in Lowell. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Columbia is $243,500 compared to $395,100 in Lowell.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Columbia vs Lowell — common questions

Is Columbia or Lowell cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Columbia is cheaper to live in with an index of 80 compared to 119 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Columbia and Lowell?

Median rent in Columbia is $1,158/month and in Lowell it's $1,603/month — a difference of $445/month.

Which city has higher income, Columbia or Lowell?

Median household income is $55,653 in Columbia and $76,205 in Lowell. Median household income is $20,552/year higher in Lowell.

How do taxes compare between South Carolina and Massachusetts?

South Carolina has 6.4% income tax, 6.0% sales tax, and 0.57% property tax. Massachusetts has 9.0% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 1.15% property tax.

Should I move to Columbia or Lowell?

It depends on your priorities. Columbia has a cost index of 80 with median rent of $1,158/mo, while Lowell has a cost index of 119 with rent of $1,603/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Columbia, SC vs Lowell, MA (2026)

Columbia

Lowell

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

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