Columbia, SC vs Provo, UT: 80 vs 102

$1,158/mo ≈ Same

Median Rent

$1,152/mo ≈ Same

$55,653/yr ↓ 11%

Median Income

$62,800/yr ↑ 13%

$243,500 ↓ 44%

Home Value

$437,100 ↑ 80%

$1,169/mo ↓ 4%

Owner Costs

$1,220/mo ↑ 4%

138,019

Population

114,303

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Columbia, SC and Provo, UT, the overall cost of living indices are 80 and 102 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is comparable in both cities, with less than $50/month separating them.

Median household income is $7,147/year higher in Provo. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Columbia is $243,500 compared to $437,100 in Provo.

Utah has a lower income tax rate, making Provo slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Columbia vs Provo — common questions

Is Columbia or Provo cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Columbia is cheaper to live in with an index of 80 compared to 102 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Columbia and Provo?

Median rent in Columbia is $1,158/month and in Provo it's $1,152/month — a difference of $6/month.

Which city has higher income, Columbia or Provo?

Median household income is $55,653 in Columbia and $62,800 in Provo. Median household income is $7,147/year higher in Provo.

How do taxes compare between South Carolina and Utah?

South Carolina has 6.4% income tax, 6.0% sales tax, and 0.57% property tax. Utah has 4.65% income tax, 6.1% sales tax, and 0.58% property tax.

Should I move to Columbia or Provo?

It depends on your priorities. Columbia has a cost index of 80 with median rent of $1,158/mo, while Provo has a cost index of 102 with rent of $1,152/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Columbia, SC vs Provo, UT (2026)

Columbia

Provo

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

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