Columbia, SC vs Pasadena, CA: 80 vs 220

$1,158/mo ↓ 48%

Median Rent

$2,218/mo ↑ 92%

$55,653/yr ↓ 46%

Median Income

$103,778/yr ↑ 86%

$243,500 ↓ 77%

Home Value

$1,045,000 ↑ 329%

$1,169/mo ↓ 50%

Owner Costs

$2,340/mo ↑ 100%

138,019

Population

136,462

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Columbia, SC and Pasadena, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 80 and 220 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $1,060/month cheaper in Columbia, saving renters about $12,720/year.

Median household income is $48,125/year higher in Pasadena. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Columbia is $243,500 compared to $1,045,000 in Pasadena.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Columbia vs Pasadena — common questions

Is Columbia or Pasadena cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Columbia is cheaper to live in with an index of 80 compared to 220 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Columbia and Pasadena?

Median rent in Columbia is $1,158/month and in Pasadena it's $2,218/month — a difference of $1,060/month.

Which city has higher income, Columbia or Pasadena?

Median household income is $55,653 in Columbia and $103,778 in Pasadena. Median household income is $48,125/year higher in Pasadena.

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 Pasadena?

It depends on your priorities. Columbia has a cost index of 80 with median rent of $1,158/mo, while Pasadena has a cost index of 220 with rent of $2,218/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

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

Columbia

Pasadena

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

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