Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
31% cheaper
Baton Rouge is 31% more affordable than Columbia. A $75,000 salary in Columbia is equivalent to $51,705 in Baton Rouge.
Index values shown. National average = 100. Lower is cheaper.
To maintain the same standard of living:
See exact take-home pay: Louisiana salaries · Maryland salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Baton Rouge has a housing index of 75 while Columbia sits at 172 (national average = 100). The median home in Baton Rouge costs $195,000 compared to $430,000 in Columbia, a difference of $235,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $1,100 in Baton Rouge versus $1,900 in Columbia.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a notable difference: Baton Rouge scores 96 while Columbia scores 104. Both cities are close to the national average for grocery costs.
Healthcare costs in Baton Rouge (93) are lower than Columbia (101). Both are close to the national average.
Median household income in Baton Rouge is $44,982 compared to $112,738 in Columbia. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Baton Rouge.
Amazon affiliate links