Cost of Living in Columbus, NC
Cost indexes, living wages, and fair market rents — 2024 Data
Cost of Living Overview
Overall Index
96.3
100 = national avg
-3.7 vs national average
Living Wage (1 Adult)
$42,363
per year
Living Wage (Family of 4)
$100,131
per year
Cost Index by Category
Housing107.1
Food92.9
Transportation85.7
Healthcare94.3
Utilities97.1
100 = national average. Higher = more expensive.
Fair Market Rent
Source: HUD1 Bedroom
$829
per month
2 Bedroom
$983
per month
The overall cost of living index in Columbus is 96.3, which is 3.7% below the national average. Housing costs are above the national average at an index of 107.1. A single adult needs to earn approximately $42,363 per year to cover basic expenses.