Phoenix, AZ vs Columbia, SC: 109 vs 80

$1,458/mo ↑ 26%

Median Rent

$1,158/mo ↓ 21%

$77,041/yr ↑ 38%

Median Income

$55,653/yr ↓ 28%

$381,900 ↑ 57%

Home Value

$243,500 ↓ 36%

$1,430/mo ↑ 22%

Owner Costs

$1,169/mo ↓ 18%

1,624,832

Population

138,019

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Phoenix, AZ and Columbia, SC, the overall cost of living indices are 109 and 80 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $300/month cheaper in Columbia, saving renters about $3,600/year.

Median household income is $21,388/year higher in Phoenix. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Phoenix is $381,900 compared to $243,500 in Columbia.

Arizona has a lower income tax rate, making Phoenix slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Phoenix vs Columbia — common questions

Is Phoenix or Columbia cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Columbia is cheaper to live in with an index of 80 compared to 109 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Phoenix and Columbia?

Median rent in Phoenix is $1,458/month and in Columbia it's $1,158/month — a difference of $300/month.

Which city has higher income, Phoenix or Columbia?

Median household income is $77,041 in Phoenix and $55,653 in Columbia. Median household income is $21,388/year higher in Phoenix.

How do taxes compare between Arizona and South Carolina?

Arizona has 2.5% income tax, 5.6% sales tax, and 0.62% property tax. South Carolina has 6.4% income tax, 6.0% sales tax, and 0.57% property tax.

Should I move to Phoenix or Columbia?

It depends on your priorities. Phoenix has a cost index of 109 with median rent of $1,458/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: Phoenix, AZ vs Columbia, SC (2026)

Phoenix

Columbia

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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