Providence, RI vs Columbia, SC: 99 vs 80

$1,333/mo ↑ 15%

Median Rent

$1,158/mo ↓ 13%

$66,772/yr ↑ 20%

Median Income

$55,653/yr ↓ 17%

$322,800 ↑ 33%

Home Value

$243,500 ↓ 25%

$1,467/mo ↑ 25%

Owner Costs

$1,169/mo ↓ 20%

190,214

Population

138,019

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Providence, RI and Columbia, SC, the overall cost of living indices are 99 and 80 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $175/month cheaper in Columbia, saving renters about $2,100/year.

Median household income is $11,119/year higher in Providence. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Providence is $322,800 compared to $243,500 in Columbia.

Rhode Island has a lower income tax rate, making Providence slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Providence vs Columbia — common questions

Is Providence or Columbia cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Columbia is cheaper to live in with an index of 80 compared to 99 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Providence and Columbia?

Median rent in Providence is $1,333/month and in Columbia it's $1,158/month — a difference of $175/month.

Which city has higher income, Providence or Columbia?

Median household income is $66,772 in Providence and $55,653 in Columbia. Median household income is $11,119/year higher in Providence.

How do taxes compare between Rhode Island and South Carolina?

Rhode Island has 5.99% income tax, 7.0% sales tax, and 1.53% property tax. South Carolina has 6.4% income tax, 6.0% sales tax, and 0.57% property tax.

Should I move to Providence or Columbia?

It depends on your priorities. Providence has a cost index of 99 with median rent of $1,333/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: Providence, RI vs Columbia, SC (2026)

Providence

Columbia

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

More Comparisons