Beaufort, SC vs Columbia, SC: Cost of Living Comparison
Columbia has the lower overall cost of living. (100 = US national average)
Category-by-Category Comparison
| Category | Beaufort | Columbia | Cheaper |
|---|---|---|---|
| Overall cost of living | 91 | 82 | Columbia |
| Housing | 89 ($743) | 70 ($811) | Columbia |
| Transportation | 99 ($3.50) | 107 ($3.50) | Beaufort |
| Food & groceries | 80 ($328) | 75 ($308) | Columbia |
| Utilities | 95 ($160) | 85 ($126) | Columbia |
| Healthcare | 95 ($116) | 85 ($91) | Columbia |
| Median annual wage | 96 ($46,490) | 96 ($46,490) | Tie |
Index 100 = US national average. Lower = cheaper. For wage, higher = better.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Beaufort, SC or Columbia, SC cheaper to live in?
Columbia, SC is cheaper overall by about 9 index points (Beaufort, SC: 91, Columbia, SC: 82; 100 = US national average).
What salary do I need in Beaufort, SC vs Columbia, SC?
A single adult needs roughly $31,850/year in Beaufort, SC and $28,700/year in Columbia, SC to cover basic living costs.