Springfield, MO vs Columbia, SC: 60 vs 80

$920/mo ↓ 21%

Median Rent

$1,158/mo ↑ 26%

$45,984/yr ↓ 17%

Median Income

$55,653/yr ↑ 21%

$165,200 ↓ 32%

Home Value

$243,500 ↑ 47%

$908/mo ↓ 22%

Owner Costs

$1,169/mo ↑ 29%

169,432

Population

138,019

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Springfield, MO and Columbia, SC, the overall cost of living indices are 60 and 80 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $238/month cheaper in Springfield, saving renters about $2,856/year.

Median household income is $9,669/year higher in Columbia. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Springfield is $165,200 compared to $243,500 in Columbia.

Missouri has a lower income tax rate, making Springfield slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Springfield vs Columbia — common questions

Is Springfield or Columbia cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Springfield is cheaper to live in with an index of 60 compared to 80 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Springfield and Columbia?

Median rent in Springfield is $920/month and in Columbia it's $1,158/month — a difference of $238/month.

Which city has higher income, Springfield or Columbia?

Median household income is $45,984 in Springfield and $55,653 in Columbia. Median household income is $9,669/year higher in Columbia.

How do taxes compare between Missouri and South Carolina?

Missouri has 4.95% income tax, 4.225% sales tax, and 0.93% property tax. South Carolina has 6.4% income tax, 6.0% sales tax, and 0.57% property tax.

Should I move to Springfield or Columbia?

It depends on your priorities. Springfield has a cost index of 60 with median rent of $920/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: Springfield, MO vs Columbia, SC (2026)

Springfield

Columbia

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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