Louisville, KY vs Columbia, SC: 74 vs 80

$1,069/mo ↓ 8%

Median Rent

$1,158/mo ↑ 8%

$64,731/yr ↑ 16%

Median Income

$55,653/yr ↓ 14%

$221,500 ↓ 9%

Home Value

$243,500 ↑ 10%

$1,118/mo ↓ 4%

Owner Costs

$1,169/mo ↑ 5%

627,210

Population

138,019

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Louisville, KY and Columbia, SC, the overall cost of living indices are 74 and 80 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $89/month cheaper in Louisville, saving renters about $1,068/year.

Median household income is $9,078/year higher in Louisville. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Louisville is $221,500 compared to $243,500 in Columbia.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Louisville vs Columbia — common questions

Is Louisville or Columbia cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Louisville is cheaper to live in with an index of 74 compared to 80 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Louisville and Columbia?

Median rent in Louisville is $1,069/month and in Columbia it's $1,158/month — a difference of $89/month.

Which city has higher income, Louisville or Columbia?

Median household income is $64,731 in Louisville and $55,653 in Columbia. Median household income is $9,078/year higher in Louisville.

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 Louisville or Columbia?

It depends on your priorities. Louisville has a cost index of 74 with median rent of $1,069/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: Louisville, KY vs Columbia, SC (2026)

Louisville

Columbia

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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