Cost of Living in Columbia, MD
Cost indexes, living wages, and fair market rents — 2024 Data
Cost of Living Overview
Overall Index
185.2
100 = national avg
+85.2 vs national average
Living Wage (1 Adult)
$81,506
per year
Living Wage (Family of 4)
$192,651
per year
Cost Index by Category
Housing237.0
Food148.7
Transportation138.7
Healthcare139.0
Utilities156.6
100 = national average. Higher = more expensive.
Fair Market Rent
Source: HUD1 Bedroom
$1,511
per month
2 Bedroom
$1,857
per month
The overall cost of living index in Columbia is 185.2, which is 85.2% above the national average. Housing costs are above the national average at an index of 237.0. A single adult needs to earn approximately $81,506 per year to cover basic expenses.