Eugene, OR vs Columbia, SC: 111 vs 80

$1,347/mo ↑ 16%

Median Rent

$1,158/mo ↓ 14%

$63,836/yr ↑ 15%

Median Income

$55,653/yr ↓ 13%

$435,400 ↑ 79%

Home Value

$243,500 ↓ 44%

$1,421/mo ↑ 22%

Owner Costs

$1,169/mo ↓ 18%

177,520

Population

138,019

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Eugene, OR and Columbia, SC, the overall cost of living indices are 111 and 80 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $189/month cheaper in Columbia, saving renters about $2,268/year.

Median household income is $8,183/year higher in Eugene. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Eugene is $435,400 compared to $243,500 in Columbia.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Eugene vs Columbia — common questions

Is Eugene or Columbia cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Columbia is cheaper to live in with an index of 80 compared to 111 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Eugene and Columbia?

Median rent in Eugene is $1,347/month and in Columbia it's $1,158/month — a difference of $189/month.

Which city has higher income, Eugene or Columbia?

Median household income is $63,836 in Eugene and $55,653 in Columbia. Median household income is $8,183/year higher in Eugene.

How do taxes compare between Oregon and South Carolina?

Oregon has 9.9% income tax, 0% sales tax, and 0.93% property tax. South Carolina has 6.4% income tax, 6.0% sales tax, and 0.57% property tax.

Should I move to Eugene or Columbia?

It depends on your priorities. Eugene has a cost index of 111 with median rent of $1,347/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: Eugene, OR vs Columbia, SC (2026)

Eugene

Columbia

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

More Comparisons