Rochester, NY vs Columbia, SC: 61 vs 80

$1,039/mo ↓ 10%

Median Rent

$1,158/mo ↑ 11%

$46,628/yr ↓ 16%

Median Income

$55,653/yr ↑ 19%

$120,600 ↓ 50%

Home Value

$243,500 ↑ 102%

$1,009/mo ↓ 14%

Owner Costs

$1,169/mo ↑ 16%

209,720

Population

138,019

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Rochester, NY and Columbia, SC, the overall cost of living indices are 61 and 80 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $119/month cheaper in Rochester, saving renters about $1,428/year.

Median household income is $9,025/year higher in Columbia. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Rochester is $120,600 compared to $243,500 in Columbia.

South Carolina has a lower income tax rate, making Columbia slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Rochester vs Columbia — common questions

Is Rochester or Columbia cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Rochester is cheaper to live in with an index of 61 compared to 80 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Rochester and Columbia?

Median rent in Rochester is $1,039/month and in Columbia it's $1,158/month — a difference of $119/month.

Which city has higher income, Rochester or Columbia?

Median household income is $46,628 in Rochester and $55,653 in Columbia. Median household income is $9,025/year higher in Columbia.

How do taxes compare between New York and South Carolina?

New York has 10.9% income tax, 4.0% sales tax, and 1.62% property tax. South Carolina has 6.4% income tax, 6.0% sales tax, and 0.57% property tax.

Should I move to Rochester or Columbia?

It depends on your priorities. Rochester has a cost index of 61 with median rent of $1,039/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: Rochester, NY vs Columbia, SC (2026)

Rochester

Columbia

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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