Long Beach, CA vs Columbia, SC: 169 vs 80

$1,803/mo ↑ 56%

Median Rent

$1,158/mo ↓ 36%

$83,969/yr ↑ 51%

Median Income

$55,653/yr ↓ 34%

$762,200 ↑ 213%

Home Value

$243,500 ↓ 68%

$1,890/mo ↑ 62%

Owner Costs

$1,169/mo ↓ 38%

458,491

Population

138,019

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Long Beach, CA and Columbia, SC, the overall cost of living indices are 169 and 80 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $645/month cheaper in Columbia, saving renters about $7,740/year.

Median household income is $28,316/year higher in Long Beach. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Long Beach is $762,200 compared to $243,500 in Columbia.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Long Beach vs Columbia — common questions

Is Long Beach or Columbia cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Columbia is cheaper to live in with an index of 80 compared to 169 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Long Beach and Columbia?

Median rent in Long Beach is $1,803/month and in Columbia it's $1,158/month — a difference of $645/month.

Which city has higher income, Long Beach or Columbia?

Median household income is $83,969 in Long Beach and $55,653 in Columbia. Median household income is $28,316/year higher in Long Beach.

How do taxes compare between California and South Carolina?

California has 13.3% income tax, 7.25% sales tax, and 0.71% property tax. South Carolina has 6.4% income tax, 6.0% sales tax, and 0.57% property tax.

Should I move to Long Beach or Columbia?

It depends on your priorities. Long Beach has a cost index of 169 with median rent of $1,803/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: Long Beach, CA vs Columbia, SC (2026)

Long Beach

Columbia

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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