Montgomery, AL vs Columbia, SC: 64 vs 80

$1,059/mo ↓ 9%

Median Rent

$1,158/mo ↑ 9%

$55,687/yr ≈ Same

Median Income

$55,653/yr ≈ Same

$148,500 ↓ 39%

Home Value

$243,500 ↑ 64%

$1,023/mo ↓ 12%

Owner Costs

$1,169/mo ↑ 14%

198,440

Population

138,019

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Montgomery, AL and Columbia, SC, the overall cost of living indices are 64 and 80 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $99/month cheaper in Montgomery, saving renters about $1,188/year.

Median household income is $34/year higher in Montgomery. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Montgomery is $148,500 compared to $243,500 in Columbia.

Alabama has a lower income tax rate, making Montgomery slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Montgomery vs Columbia — common questions

Is Montgomery or Columbia cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Montgomery is cheaper to live in with an index of 64 compared to 80 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Montgomery and Columbia?

Median rent in Montgomery is $1,059/month and in Columbia it's $1,158/month — a difference of $99/month.

Which city has higher income, Montgomery or Columbia?

Median household income is $55,687 in Montgomery and $55,653 in Columbia. Median household income is $34/year higher in Montgomery.

How do taxes compare between Alabama and South Carolina?

Alabama has 5.0% income tax, 4.0% sales tax, and 0.41% property tax. South Carolina has 6.4% income tax, 6.0% sales tax, and 0.57% property tax.

Should I move to Montgomery or Columbia?

It depends on your priorities. Montgomery has a cost index of 64 with median rent of $1,059/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: Montgomery, AL vs Columbia, SC (2026)

Montgomery

Columbia

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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