Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
24% cheaper
Charlotte is 24% more affordable than Columbia. A $75,000 salary in Columbia is equivalent to $56,818 in Charlotte.
Index values shown. National average = 100. Lower is cheaper.
To maintain the same standard of living:
See exact take-home pay: North Carolina salaries · Maryland salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Charlotte has a housing index of 99 while Columbia sits at 172 (national average = 100). The median home in Charlotte costs $330,000 compared to $430,000 in Columbia, a difference of $100,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $1,500 in Charlotte versus $1,900 in Columbia.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a narrower gap: Charlotte scores 101 while Columbia scores 104. Both cities are close to the national average for grocery costs.
Healthcare costs in Charlotte (105) are higher than Columbia (101). Both are close to the national average.
Median household income in Charlotte is $62,308 compared to $112,738 in Columbia. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Charlotte.
Amazon affiliate links