Columbia, SC vs New Haven, CT: 80 vs 95

$1,158/mo ↓ 20%

Median Rent

$1,442/mo ↑ 25%

$55,653/yr ↑ 4%

Median Income

$53,771/yr ↓ 3%

$243,500 ↓ 2%

Home Value

$249,000 ↑ 2%

$1,169/mo ↓ 23%

Owner Costs

$1,520/mo ↑ 30%

138,019

Population

132,893

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Columbia, SC and New Haven, CT, the overall cost of living indices are 80 and 95 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $284/month cheaper in Columbia, saving renters about $3,408/year.

Median household income is $1,882/year higher in Columbia. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Columbia is $243,500 compared to $249,000 in New Haven.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Columbia vs New Haven — common questions

Is Columbia or New Haven cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Columbia is cheaper to live in with an index of 80 compared to 95 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Columbia and New Haven?

Median rent in Columbia is $1,158/month and in New Haven it's $1,442/month — a difference of $284/month.

Which city has higher income, Columbia or New Haven?

Median household income is $55,653 in Columbia and $53,771 in New Haven. Median household income is $1,882/year higher in Columbia.

How do taxes compare between South Carolina and Connecticut?

South Carolina has 6.4% income tax, 6.0% sales tax, and 0.57% property tax. Connecticut has 6.99% income tax, 6.35% sales tax, and 2.15% property tax.

Should I move to Columbia or New Haven?

It depends on your priorities. Columbia has a cost index of 80 with median rent of $1,158/mo, while New Haven has a cost index of 95 with rent of $1,442/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Columbia, SC vs New Haven, CT (2026)

Columbia

New Haven

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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