Cost of Living in Columbia, SC

How far does a $70,000 salary go in Columbia? Estimated income taxes on that gross salary total approximately $10,094 per year — combining federal taxes with South Carolina's state income tax. Subtract rent for a 2-bedroom apartment ($1,276/month based on HUD Fair Market Rents for the Columbia metro area) and the estimated annual take-home is $44,594, or roughly $3,716 per month for everything else: food, transportation, savings, and discretionary spending.

The Columbia metro has a cost of living index of 78.4 according to the Bureau of Economic Analysis Regional Price Parities (national average = 100). At 22% below the national average, Columbia is a genuinely affordable metro where everyday expenses stretch further than in most cities.

At a $70,000 salary, the estimated 2-bedroom rent in Columbia represents approximately 22% of gross income. That falls comfortably below the 30% rent-burden guideline, a healthy position for building savings.