Norfolk, VA vs Columbia, SC: 89 vs 80

$1,246/mo ↑ 8%

Median Rent

$1,158/mo ↓ 7%

$64,017/yr ↑ 15%

Median Income

$55,653/yr ↓ 13%

$271,900 ↑ 12%

Home Value

$243,500 ↓ 10%

$1,366/mo ↑ 17%

Owner Costs

$1,169/mo ↓ 14%

235,037

Population

138,019

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Norfolk, VA and Columbia, SC, the overall cost of living indices are 89 and 80 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $88/month cheaper in Columbia, saving renters about $1,056/year.

Median household income is $8,364/year higher in Norfolk. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Norfolk is $271,900 compared to $243,500 in Columbia.

Virginia has a lower income tax rate, making Norfolk slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Norfolk vs Columbia — common questions

Is Norfolk or Columbia cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Columbia is cheaper to live in with an index of 80 compared to 89 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Norfolk and Columbia?

Median rent in Norfolk is $1,246/month and in Columbia it's $1,158/month — a difference of $88/month.

Which city has higher income, Norfolk or Columbia?

Median household income is $64,017 in Norfolk and $55,653 in Columbia. Median household income is $8,364/year higher in Norfolk.

How do taxes compare between Virginia and South Carolina?

Virginia has 5.75% income tax, 5.3% sales tax, and 0.8% property tax. South Carolina has 6.4% income tax, 6.0% sales tax, and 0.57% property tax.

Should I move to Norfolk or Columbia?

It depends on your priorities. Norfolk has a cost index of 89 with median rent of $1,246/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: Norfolk, VA vs Columbia, SC (2026)

Norfolk

Columbia

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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