Naperville, IL vs Columbia, SC: 147 vs 80

$1,852/mo ↑ 60%

Median Rent

$1,158/mo ↓ 37%

$150,937/yr ↑ 171%

Median Income

$55,653/yr ↓ 63%

$509,900 ↑ 109%

Home Value

$243,500 ↓ 52%

$2,161/mo ↑ 85%

Owner Costs

$1,169/mo ↓ 46%

149,424

Population

138,019

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Naperville, IL and Columbia, SC, the overall cost of living indices are 147 and 80 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $694/month cheaper in Columbia, saving renters about $8,328/year.

Median household income is $95,284/year higher in Naperville. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Naperville is $509,900 compared to $243,500 in Columbia.

Illinois has a lower income tax rate, making Naperville slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Naperville vs Columbia — common questions

Is Naperville or Columbia cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Columbia is cheaper to live in with an index of 80 compared to 147 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Naperville and Columbia?

Median rent in Naperville is $1,852/month and in Columbia it's $1,158/month — a difference of $694/month.

Which city has higher income, Naperville or Columbia?

Median household income is $150,937 in Naperville and $55,653 in Columbia. Median household income is $95,284/year higher in Naperville.

How do taxes compare between Illinois and South Carolina?

Illinois has 4.95% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 2.07% property tax. South Carolina has 6.4% income tax, 6.0% sales tax, and 0.57% property tax.

Should I move to Naperville or Columbia?

It depends on your priorities. Naperville has a cost index of 147 with median rent of $1,852/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: Naperville, IL vs Columbia, SC (2026)

Naperville

Columbia

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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