Des Moines, IA vs Columbia, SC: 70 vs 80

$1,054/mo ↓ 9%

Median Rent

$1,158/mo ↑ 10%

$63,966/yr ↑ 15%

Median Income

$55,653/yr ↓ 13%

$183,700 ↓ 25%

Home Value

$243,500 ↑ 33%

$1,137/mo ↓ 3%

Owner Costs

$1,169/mo ↑ 3%

212,464

Population

138,019

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Des Moines, IA and Columbia, SC, the overall cost of living indices are 70 and 80 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $104/month cheaper in Des Moines, saving renters about $1,248/year.

Median household income is $8,313/year higher in Des Moines. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Des Moines is $183,700 compared to $243,500 in Columbia.

Iowa has a lower income tax rate, making Des Moines slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Des Moines vs Columbia — common questions

Is Des Moines or Columbia cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Des Moines is cheaper to live in with an index of 70 compared to 80 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Des Moines and Columbia?

Median rent in Des Moines is $1,054/month and in Columbia it's $1,158/month — a difference of $104/month.

Which city has higher income, Des Moines or Columbia?

Median household income is $63,966 in Des Moines and $55,653 in Columbia. Median household income is $8,313/year higher in Des Moines.

How do taxes compare between Iowa and South Carolina?

Iowa has 5.7% income tax, 6.0% sales tax, and 1.57% property tax. South Carolina has 6.4% income tax, 6.0% sales tax, and 0.57% property tax.

Should I move to Des Moines or Columbia?

It depends on your priorities. Des Moines has a cost index of 70 with median rent of $1,054/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: Des Moines, IA vs Columbia, SC (2026)

Des Moines

Columbia

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

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