Columbus, GA vs Columbia, SC: 69 vs 80

$1,072/mo ↓ 7%

Median Rent

$1,158/mo ↑ 8%

$56,622/yr ↑ 2%

Median Income

$55,653/yr ↓ 2%

$182,300 ↓ 25%

Home Value

$243,500 ↑ 34%

$1,064/mo ↓ 9%

Owner Costs

$1,169/mo ↑ 10%

204,383

Population

138,019

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Columbus, GA and Columbia, SC, the overall cost of living indices are 69 and 80 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $86/month cheaper in Columbus, saving renters about $1,032/year.

Median household income is $969/year higher in Columbus. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Columbus is $182,300 compared to $243,500 in Columbia.

Georgia has a lower income tax rate, making Columbus slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Columbus vs Columbia — common questions

Is Columbus or Columbia cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Columbus is cheaper to live in with an index of 69 compared to 80 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Columbus and Columbia?

Median rent in Columbus is $1,072/month and in Columbia it's $1,158/month — a difference of $86/month.

Which city has higher income, Columbus or Columbia?

Median household income is $56,622 in Columbus and $55,653 in Columbia. Median household income is $969/year higher in Columbus.

How do taxes compare between Georgia and South Carolina?

Georgia has 5.49% income tax, 4.0% sales tax, and 0.92% property tax. South Carolina has 6.4% income tax, 6.0% sales tax, and 0.57% property tax.

Should I move to Columbus or Columbia?

It depends on your priorities. Columbus has a cost index of 69 with median rent of $1,072/mo, while Columbia has a cost index of 80 with rent of $1,158/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Columbus, GA vs Columbia, SC (2026)

Columbus

Columbia

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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