Raleigh, NC vs Columbia, SC: 110 vs 80

$1,468/mo ↑ 27%

Median Rent

$1,158/mo ↓ 21%

$82,424/yr ↑ 48%

Median Income

$55,653/yr ↓ 32%

$377,800 ↑ 55%

Home Value

$243,500 ↓ 36%

$1,487/mo ↑ 27%

Owner Costs

$1,169/mo ↓ 21%

470,763

Population

138,019

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Raleigh, NC and Columbia, SC, the overall cost of living indices are 110 and 80 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $310/month cheaper in Columbia, saving renters about $3,720/year.

Median household income is $26,771/year higher in Raleigh. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Raleigh is $377,800 compared to $243,500 in Columbia.

North Carolina has a lower income tax rate, making Raleigh slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Raleigh vs Columbia — common questions

Is Raleigh or Columbia cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Columbia is cheaper to live in with an index of 80 compared to 110 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Raleigh and Columbia?

Median rent in Raleigh is $1,468/month and in Columbia it's $1,158/month — a difference of $310/month.

Which city has higher income, Raleigh or Columbia?

Median household income is $82,424 in Raleigh and $55,653 in Columbia. Median household income is $26,771/year higher in Raleigh.

How do taxes compare between North Carolina and South Carolina?

North Carolina has 4.5% income tax, 4.75% 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 Raleigh or Columbia?

It depends on your priorities. Raleigh has a cost index of 110 with median rent of $1,468/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: Raleigh, NC vs Columbia, SC (2026)

Raleigh

Columbia

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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