Did the Cost of Living in Columbia, SC increase in 2024? Columbia, SC area prices were up 1.5% from a year ago. The largest increases were found in Transportation, Food, and Housing.
By using Salary.com's Cost of Living Calculator, you can make a cost of living comparison of the Consumer Price Index (CPI) and salary differentials of over 300+ US cities. Let us help you make an informed decision about what it will cost to live and work in the city of your dreams!
About Columbia, South Carolina One of Columbia's more prominent geographical features is its fall line, the boundary between the upland Piedmont region and the Atlantic Coastal Plai....More
The federal minimum wage is $7.25 per hour while South Carolina's state law sets the minimum wage rate at $7.25 per hour in 2024.
Demands for a living wage that is fair to workers have resulted in numerous location-based changes to minimum wage levels.
View future changes in the minimum wage in your location by visiting
Minimum Wage Values in Columbia, SC
Based on this cost of living comparison, you can see:
If you move from Chicago IL, Dallas, TX, or Miami, FL, the percent increase of your cost of living could be 22.8%, 37.8%, and 24.8%.
Looks like this move could have a negative net change in disposable income, so please think carefully!
If you move from New York, NY, San Francisco, CA, or Washington, DC, the percent reduction of your cost of living could be -43.50%, -23%, and -20.10%,
that's good news to you that you could be looking at a positive net change in disposable income.
About Columbia, SC
One of Columbia's more prominent geographical features is its fall line, the boundary between the upland Piedmont region and the Atlantic Coastal Plain, across which rivers drop as falls or rapids. Columbia grew up at the fall line of the Congaree River, which is formed by the convergence of the Broad River and the Saluda River. The Congaree was the farthest inland point of river navigation. The energy of falling water also powered Columbia's early mills. The city has capitalized on this location which includes three rivers by christening itself "The Columbia Riverbanks Region". Columbia is lo...
Source: Wikipedia (as of 04/11/2019). Read more from Wikipedia
Comments about the Cost of Living in Columbia, SC
If I plan on eating out occasionally will it be affordable in Columbia, SC?
Columbia, South Carolina going out to eat at a restaurant and buying food is considered to be affordable. Make sure you take this into account as you plan your overall cost of living in Columbia, SC. (2024-11-21salary.com)
Are there good recreational opportunities in or near Columbia, SC?
Columbia, SC does not have a major sports team, but don’t worry, check out local colleges and high school sports schedules. These games usually have very cheap tickets and the spirit and enthusiasm of the crowd often makes up for the level of skill. (2024-11-21salary.com)
How much is the average price of internet in Columbia, SC?
The average cost of internet access in the U.S. is $66.20 per month. There are many providers and various packages that are offered, many that bundle internet, cable, and phone together. Pricing for various packages can vary a lot even in the same location. You should evaluate the options based on your usage and preferences and pick the best fit for your needs. One tip to reduce this cost and your overall cost of living, is to get cable service from another source like Direct TV, Netflix, Sling, Amazon Prime or others. (2024-11-21salary.com)
Electricity bills are a big part of my current cost of living and can be really high, what is the cost of electricity in Columbia, South Carolina?
Electric costs in Columbia,SC are currently lower than average when compared to other states. Since a year ago the price of electricity in South Carolina has gone down about 1.224%. Electric costs will contribute to the energy component of your overall cost of living. (2024-11-21salary.com)
What kind of child care is available in Columbia, South Carolina and what is the cost?
The estimated average annual cost for child care in Columbia, South Carolina (based on state average), is $6475. This cost is ranked NO. 43 nationally. Some employers have company provided day care centers that let you bring your child to work with you and receive care on site. Some colleges and universities with Childhood Education programs also may have day care centers available at reduced costs, so you should explore those possibilities to see if you can reduce your child care expense. (2024-11-21salary.com)
Should I plan on spending a lot on rent in Columbia,SC?
In Columbia,SC, my friend pays $900 for a large 2 bedroom apartment. Since he has 2 children, he needs to have a large apartment. (2024-11-21salary.com)
Are there fun things to in Columbia, South Carolina that are free or don’t cost a lot?
Looks for areas of Columbia, South Carolina where there is a large student population. In those areas you will be sure to find lots of free or cheap events to go to and plenty of cheap places to eat. Familiarize yourself with the places where students hang out, and take advantage of discounted or bargain prices, you are sure to be able to keep your cost of living reasonable. Look at the website for Columbia, SC to find recommendations for activities that are available and unique to the area. (2024-11-21salary.com)
Will I have to pay a lot in taxes if I move to Columbia, South Carolina?
The sales tax for Columbia is 6%. This is the tax that you will pay on things that you buy. (2024-11-21salary.com)
Does Columbia, South Carolina have a good climate?
The weather in Columbia is ideal. Based on data collected by NOAA National Climatic Data Center, Columbia is considered to have one of the most favorable climates in the country based on comfort and number of days with clear skies. You will enjoy living in Columbia, South Carolina. (2024-11-21salary.com)
Can you save money using public transport?
You could save up to $1,000 per year, depending on your location, by using public transport instead of driving. Not only will you reduce the stress of driving and finding a place to park once you reach your destination, your car and tires will last longer, and you will spend less on gas. A side benefit is that you may be able to relax, work, or read on the way to work, or get to know and chat with other commuters. Some employers offer employees reduced fee bus or transit passes, so check that out with your employer. (2024-11-21salary.com)
Cost of Living Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Cost of Living index and how is it used?
In the simplest terms, a Cost of Living index is the estimated amount that represents the cost of the basic necessities required for an individual to live. A cost of living or COL estimate may typically include estimates for housing, food, energy, medical care, transportation, taxes, and other necessities. A COL index may be used to measure what the cost difference would be for a person living in a certain location compared to another location. This cost of living comparison helps individuals make decisions about where they would like to live and what they can afford based on the costs in that location. A cost of living comparison can provide guidance about how an increase or decrease in these basic living expenses impacts necessary spending for an individual or a family.
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What factors are included in estimating your cost of living?
The Salary.com cost of living calculator estimate is based on data related to five general categories: housing, food, healthcare, transportation, and energy. These are the universally recognized core components of any cost of living estimate and represent those expenses that apply to everyone. Obviously, there may be other factors that could contribute to your particular cost of living situation and not everyone has the same spending habits. For example, education and/or childcare costs might not apply to everyone, but for those who have those expenses, they could be significant and should be considered when you evaluate your cost of living comparison.
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The Salary.com cost of living calculator is unique in that it also incorporates current salary data for thousands of jobs specific to a chosen home or work location to provide a more refined estimate of the cost of living variations. You can see how your job and your salary will be impacted by a change of location. If you live in one location but work in another, the cost of living calculator will make those adjustments to provide an accurate estimate of the change in COL. The Salary.com cost of living calculator helps you to make cost of living comparisons cost comparisons easily and quickly.
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Use our Salary Converter Tool, a user-friendly resource designed to see how much your salary will be if converted into hourly/weekly/biweekly/monthly/yearly pay. With just a few clicks, you can gain valuable insights into your earning potential, ensuring you make informed financial decisions.
Use our Salary Converter Tool, a user-friendly resource designed to see how much your salary will be if converted into hourly/weekly/biweekly/monthly/yearly pay. With just a few clicks, you can gain valuable insights into your earning potential, ensuring you make informed financial decisions.