Macon, GA vs Columbia, SC: 65 vs 80

$1,026/mo ↓ 11%

Median Rent

$1,158/mo ↑ 13%

$50,747/yr ↓ 9%

Median Income

$55,653/yr ↑ 10%

$165,800 ↓ 32%

Home Value

$243,500 ↑ 47%

$1,016/mo ↓ 13%

Owner Costs

$1,169/mo ↑ 15%

156,543

Population

138,019

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Macon, GA and Columbia, SC, the overall cost of living indices are 65 and 80 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $132/month cheaper in Macon, saving renters about $1,584/year.

Median household income is $4,906/year higher in Columbia. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Macon is $165,800 compared to $243,500 in Columbia.

Georgia has a lower income tax rate, making Macon slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Macon vs Columbia — common questions

Is Macon or Columbia cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Macon is cheaper to live in with an index of 65 compared to 80 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Macon and Columbia?

Median rent in Macon is $1,026/month and in Columbia it's $1,158/month — a difference of $132/month.

Which city has higher income, Macon or Columbia?

Median household income is $50,747 in Macon and $55,653 in Columbia. Median household income is $4,906/year higher in Columbia.

How do taxes compare between Georgia and South Carolina?

Georgia has 5.49% income tax, 4.0% sales tax, and 0.92% property tax. South Carolina has 6.4% income tax, 6.0% sales tax, and 0.57% property tax.

Should I move to Macon or Columbia?

It depends on your priorities. Macon has a cost index of 65 with median rent of $1,026/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: Macon, GA vs Columbia, SC (2026)

Macon

Columbia

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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