Columbia, Sc, United States Of America, United States Of America — cost of living
Wikipedia · Columbia, South Carolina

Columbia, Sc, United States Of America

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Country
United States Of America
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Columbia, Sc, United States Of America

About Columbia, Sc, United States Of America

Costs exclude rent
Single / month
$884
Family of 4 / mo
$2,287
Avg salary (after tax)
$3,772

Columbia, South Carolina, is a charming city that offers a mix of history, culture, and outdoor fun. As the state capital, it is home to the beautiful South Carolina State House, where visitors can explore its impressive architecture and learn about the state's government. The city is also known for the University of South Carolina, which adds a lively atmosphere with its students and events. For nature lovers, Columbia has lovely parks like Riverfront Park, where you can enjoy walking trails and views of the Congaree River. The local food scene is fantastic too, featuring delicious Southern cuisine. Whether you’re interested in history, education, or simply enjoying the great outdoors, Columbia has something for everyone!

Data aggregated from public cost-of-living sources. See About for methodology.· Wikipedia · Columbia, South Carolina· Updated May 22, 2026

Cost breakdown by category

Cost breakdown

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Fashion

  • Midrange Nike Running ShoesUSD $111.38
  • Summer Dress from Chain Stores (e.g., Zara, H&M)USD $42.19
  • Classic Jeans (e.g., Levi's 501)USD $44.32
  • Men's Dress ShoesUSD $103.82

Financial

  • Mortgage Interest Rate (20-Year Fixed)USD $5
  • Average Monthly Salary After TaxUSD $3,772

Food - Beverages

  • CappuccinoUSD $7.09
  • Local Draft Beer (Pint)USD $4.56
  • Imported Beer (Small Bottle)USD $6.75
  • Soft Drinks (350 ml Bottle)USD $2.77
  • Bottled Water (350 ml)USD $1.76

Food - Dining

  • Casual Dining ExperienceUSD $16.2
  • Upscale Dinner for TwoUSD $87.75
  • Fast Food ComboUSD $9.45

Food - Grocery

  • Chicken Fillets (1 kg)USD $16.9
  • Beef Round (1 kg)USD $22.9
  • Apples (1 kg)USD $4.57
  • Bananas (1 kg)USD $3.65
  • Oranges (1 kg)USD $3.95
  • Tomatoes (1 kg)USD $3.74
  • Potatoes (1 kg)USD $2.64
  • Onions (1 kg)USD $2.17
  • Lettuce (1 Head)USD $2.17
  • Bottled Water (1.5L)USD $2.28
  • Midrange Bottle of WineUSD $12.14
  • Marlboro (20-Pack)USD $8.78
  • White Rice (1 kg)USD $4.66
  • Dozen EggsUSD $4.52
  • Local Cheese (1 kg)USD $15.53
  • Fresh White Bread (1 kg)USD $7.22
  • Milk (1 litre)USD $1.3

Housing

  • Average Rent of 3-Bedroom Apartment in City CenterUSD $3,995
  • Average Rent of 3-Bedroom Apartment Outside City CenterUSD $2,159
  • Average Cost per Square Foot for Apartments in City CenterUSD $229.03
  • Average Cost per Square Foot for Apartments Outside City CenterUSD $97.04
  • Average Rent of 1-Bedroom Apartment in City CenterUSD $2,692
  • Average Rent of 1-Bedroom Apartment Outside City CenterUSD $1,343

Leisure

  • Monthly Fee for Fitness Club Membership (1 Adult)USD $35.26
  • Monthly Fee for Private Kindergarten (1 Child)USD $675
  • Tennis Court Rental (1 Hour, Weekend)USD $17.36
  • Cinema Ticket (International Release)USD $16.2
  • Yearly Cost for International Primary School (1 Child)USD $12,052

Transportation

  • 1 Hour Taxi WaitUSD $24.3
  • Average Price of a New Sedan CarUSD $33,500
  • One-Way Local Transport FareUSD $2.03
  • Average Rate to Start a Taxi RideUSD $2.7
  • Average Monthly Cost of Public Transport PassUSD $67.5
  • Average Taxi Fare for 1 kmUSD $3.38
  • Average Price of a New Compact Hatchback CarUSD $31,050

Utilities (Monthly)

  • Internet Service (60 Mbps or More, Unlimited)USD $84.89
  • Average Monthly Cost for Essential Utilities in a 915 sq. ft. ApartmentUSD $254.3

Costs reflect a typical lifestyle in each place, excluding rent unless stated. Numbers are a starting point — always cross-check before big decisions.

  • Single / Family of 4 toggle. Family ≈ 2.7× single when no verified figure exists.
  • Estimated values use a ~ prefix and an "Estimated" label.
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How we calculate these numbers

When local data is missing (e.g. salary for a smaller city), we estimate from peer cities in the same country using a median ratio.

Full methodology, assumptions, and formulas live on our About page.