Pittsburgh, PA vs Columbia, SC: 76 vs 80

$1,221/mo ↑ 5%

Median Rent

$1,158/mo ↓ 5%

$64,137/yr ↑ 15%

Median Income

$55,653/yr ↓ 13%

$193,200 ↓ 21%

Home Value

$243,500 ↑ 26%

$1,136/mo ↓ 3%

Owner Costs

$1,169/mo ↑ 3%

303,620

Population

138,019

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Pittsburgh, PA and Columbia, SC, the overall cost of living indices are 76 and 80 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $63/month cheaper in Columbia, saving renters about $756/year.

Median household income is $8,484/year higher in Pittsburgh. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Pittsburgh is $193,200 compared to $243,500 in Columbia.

Pennsylvania has a lower income tax rate, making Pittsburgh slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Pittsburgh vs Columbia — common questions

Is Pittsburgh or Columbia cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Pittsburgh is cheaper to live in with an index of 76 compared to 80 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Pittsburgh and Columbia?

Median rent in Pittsburgh is $1,221/month and in Columbia it's $1,158/month — a difference of $63/month.

Which city has higher income, Pittsburgh or Columbia?

Median household income is $64,137 in Pittsburgh and $55,653 in Columbia. Median household income is $8,484/year higher in Pittsburgh.

How do taxes compare between Pennsylvania and South Carolina?

Pennsylvania has 3.07% income tax, 6.0% sales tax, and 1.49% property tax. South Carolina has 6.4% income tax, 6.0% sales tax, and 0.57% property tax.

Should I move to Pittsburgh or Columbia?

It depends on your priorities. Pittsburgh has a cost index of 76 with median rent of $1,221/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: Pittsburgh, PA vs Columbia, SC (2026)

Pittsburgh

Columbia

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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