Columbia, SC vs Midland, TX: 80 vs 99

$1,158/mo ↓ 18%

Median Rent

$1,407/mo ↑ 22%

$55,653/yr ↓ 39%

Median Income

$91,169/yr ↑ 64%

$243,500 ↓ 18%

Home Value

$298,600 ↑ 23%

$1,169/mo ↓ 20%

Owner Costs

$1,468/mo ↑ 26%

138,019

Population

133,998

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Columbia, SC and Midland, TX, the overall cost of living indices are 80 and 99 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $249/month cheaper in Columbia, saving renters about $2,988/year.

Median household income is $35,516/year higher in Midland. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Columbia is $243,500 compared to $298,600 in Midland.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Columbia vs Midland — common questions

Is Columbia or Midland cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Columbia is cheaper to live in with an index of 80 compared to 99 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Columbia and Midland?

Median rent in Columbia is $1,158/month and in Midland it's $1,407/month — a difference of $249/month.

Which city has higher income, Columbia or Midland?

Median household income is $55,653 in Columbia and $91,169 in Midland. Median household income is $35,516/year higher in Midland.

How do taxes compare between South Carolina and Texas?

South Carolina has 6.4% income tax, 6.0% sales tax, and 0.57% property tax. Texas has 0% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 1.6% property tax.

Should I move to Columbia or Midland?

It depends on your priorities. Columbia has a cost index of 80 with median rent of $1,158/mo, while Midland has a cost index of 99 with rent of $1,407/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Columbia, SC vs Midland, TX (2026)

Columbia

Midland

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

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