Cost of Living in Columbia, NC
Cost indexes, living wages, and fair market rents — 2024 Data
Cost of Living Overview
Overall Index
55.4
100 = national avg
-44.6 vs national average
Living Wage (1 Adult)
$24,394
per year
Living Wage (Family of 4)
$57,658
per year
Cost Index by Category
Housing61.0
Food66.1
Transportation32.3
Healthcare72.9
Utilities71.9
100 = national average. Higher = more expensive.
Fair Market Rent
Source: HUD1 Bedroom
$744
per month
2 Bedroom
$925
per month
The overall cost of living index in Columbia is 55.4, which is 44.6% below the national average. Housing costs are below the national average at an index of 61.0. A single adult needs to earn approximately $24,394 per year to cover basic expenses.