New Orleans, LA vs Columbia, SC: 90 vs 80

$1,211/mo ↑ 5%

Median Rent

$1,158/mo ↓ 4%

$55,339/yr ≈ Same

Median Income

$55,653/yr ≈ Same

$296,400 ↑ 22%

Home Value

$243,500 ↓ 18%

$1,274/mo ↑ 9%

Owner Costs

$1,169/mo ↓ 8%

376,035

Population

138,019

Detailed Comparison

When comparing New Orleans, LA and Columbia, SC, the overall cost of living indices are 90 and 80 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $53/month cheaper in Columbia, saving renters about $636/year.

Median household income is $314/year higher in Columbia. Home values also differ significantly — the median in New Orleans is $296,400 compared to $243,500 in Columbia.

Louisiana has a lower income tax rate, making New Orleans slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

New Orleans vs Columbia — common questions

Is New Orleans or Columbia cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Columbia is cheaper to live in with an index of 80 compared to 90 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between New Orleans and Columbia?

Median rent in New Orleans is $1,211/month and in Columbia it's $1,158/month — a difference of $53/month.

Which city has higher income, New Orleans or Columbia?

Median household income is $55,339 in New Orleans and $55,653 in Columbia. Median household income is $314/year higher in Columbia.

How do taxes compare between Louisiana and South Carolina?

Louisiana has 4.25% income tax, 4.45% sales tax, and 0.55% property tax. South Carolina has 6.4% income tax, 6.0% sales tax, and 0.57% property tax.

Should I move to New Orleans or Columbia?

It depends on your priorities. New Orleans has a cost index of 90 with median rent of $1,211/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: New Orleans, LA vs Columbia, SC (2026)

New Orleans

Columbia

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

More Comparisons