Lexington, KY vs Columbia, SC: 82 vs 80

$1,101/mo ↓ 5%

Median Rent

$1,158/mo ↑ 5%

$67,631/yr ↑ 22%

Median Income

$55,653/yr ↓ 18%

$272,100 ↑ 12%

Home Value

$243,500 ↓ 11%

$1,160/mo ≈ Same

Owner Costs

$1,169/mo ≈ Same

321,122

Population

138,019

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Lexington, KY and Columbia, SC, the overall cost of living indices are 82 and 80 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $57/month cheaper in Lexington, saving renters about $684/year.

Median household income is $11,978/year higher in Lexington. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Lexington is $272,100 compared to $243,500 in Columbia.

Kentucky has a lower income tax rate, making Lexington slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Lexington vs Columbia — common questions

Is Lexington or Columbia cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Columbia is cheaper to live in with an index of 80 compared to 82 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Lexington and Columbia?

Median rent in Lexington is $1,101/month and in Columbia it's $1,158/month — a difference of $57/month.

Which city has higher income, Lexington or Columbia?

Median household income is $67,631 in Lexington and $55,653 in Columbia. Median household income is $11,978/year higher in Lexington.

How do taxes compare between Kentucky and South Carolina?

Kentucky has 4.0% income tax, 6.0% sales tax, and 0.83% property tax. South Carolina has 6.4% income tax, 6.0% sales tax, and 0.57% property tax.

Should I move to Lexington or Columbia?

It depends on your priorities. Lexington has a cost index of 82 with median rent of $1,101/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: Lexington, KY vs Columbia, SC (2026)

Lexington

Columbia

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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