Columbia, SC vs Santa Maria, CA: 80 vs 137

$1,158/mo ↓ 37%

Median Rent

$1,842/mo ↑ 59%

$55,653/yr ↓ 34%

Median Income

$84,617/yr ↑ 52%

$243,500 ↓ 49%

Home Value

$478,200 ↑ 96%

$1,169/mo ↓ 35%

Owner Costs

$1,789/mo ↑ 53%

138,019

Population

109,880

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Columbia, SC and Santa Maria, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 80 and 137 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $684/month cheaper in Columbia, saving renters about $8,208/year.

Median household income is $28,964/year higher in Santa Maria. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Columbia is $243,500 compared to $478,200 in Santa Maria.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Columbia vs Santa Maria — common questions

Is Columbia or Santa Maria cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Columbia is cheaper to live in with an index of 80 compared to 137 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Columbia and Santa Maria?

Median rent in Columbia is $1,158/month and in Santa Maria it's $1,842/month — a difference of $684/month.

Which city has higher income, Columbia or Santa Maria?

Median household income is $55,653 in Columbia and $84,617 in Santa Maria. Median household income is $28,964/year higher in Santa Maria.

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 Santa Maria?

It depends on your priorities. Columbia has a cost index of 80 with median rent of $1,158/mo, while Santa Maria has a cost index of 137 with rent of $1,842/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

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

Columbia

Santa Maria

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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