Cost of Living in Columbia for Students in 2025

The cost of living in Columbia is an essential topic for students, families, professionals, and anyone considering a move to this dynamic Southern city. Known for its accessible housing, manageable daily expenses, and strong educational presence, the cost of living in Columbia is consistently among the lowest for mid-sized urban areas in the United States. Below, this blog provides a full breakdown of the cost of living in Columbia, addressing all the core expenses that affect students, single individuals, and international students thinking of making the move.

Introduction: Facing Columbia’s Real Costs

The cost of living in Columbia is often highlighted as a major advantage for students and single professionals. With average expenses below those of most U.S. cities, the cost of living in Columbia appeals to those who prioritize affordability and practical choices. International students especially look at the cost of living in Columbia when comparing options across the country. In this guide, every point is backed by current data, making the cost of living in Columbia understandable, transparent, and actionable.

Core Cost Breakdown

Housing Cost of Living in Columbia

Housing is the most significant factor in the cost of living in Columbia. The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment is between $1,085 and $1,444 per month in 2025, putting the cost of living in Columbia at 28%–31% below the national average. For students, options for shared housing further decrease the cost of living in Columbia, with student apartments and roommate arrangements often lowering expenses to $450–$850 per person.​

Neighborhoods like Rosewood, Shandon, and around the University of South Carolina campus offer various rental choices. While prime locations may push the monthly cost towards the higher end, moving a bit farther can keep the cost of living in Columbia manageable for students. International students frequently seek shared student apartments, optimizing the cost of living in Columbia without sacrificing access to public transport and campus facilities.

• Average rent Columbia, SC: $1,085–$1,444 (one-bedroom)
• Median home price Columbia, SC: $337,000
• Trend: Rents in Columbia are 28%–31% lower than the national average, a central reason for the low cost of living in Columbia.​

Utilities and Internet

The cost of living in Columbia includes monthly utilities such as electricity, water, and internet. Utilities often add $123–$234 per month, about 13–18% higher than in many other Southern cities. This increase is offset by the lower cost of housing. For students, dividing utility bills among roommates can make the cost of living in Columbia especially affordable.​

• Utilities (single/one-bedroom): $123–$234 monthly
• Internet: Included in most apartments, for about $60 per month

Groceries and Food

Groceries are an integral part of the cost of living in Columbia. Grocery prices in Columbia are 1% lower than the U.S. average, with a typical single person budgeting around $563 per month. Staple items include bread ($3.91), eggs ($3.52), milk ($4.65), and bananas ($0.73 per bunch).​

Students can further economize on their cost of living in Columbia by shopping at discount stores and utilizing meal plans where available. Eating out costs about $15 for lunch at a local restaurant, which is a factor in the monthly cost of living in Columbia for those who regularly dine out.

Transportation: Getting Around Columbia

Transportation expenses are another important aspect of the cost of living in Columbia. The city’s transit system is affordable, with single rides at $1.98 and monthly passes costing $40.30. Owning a car increases the cost of living in Columbia, with gas priced at $2.66–$3.12 per gallon and parking fees to consider.​

Students and international residents often rely on public transport to keep the monthly cost of living in Columbia down. Biking and walking are common options in areas around campus, further reducing transportation costs.

Healthcare and Insurance

Healthcare adds to the cost of living in Columbia, but prices are relatively favorable compared to national averages. Doctor visits typically cost around $119, dentist visits are about $97, and optometrist visits are $108. Prescription drugs, another recurring expense in the cost of living in Columbia, average $17 per medication.​

For students, health insurance through the university is mandatory and can run $333–$417 per month.

Additional Expenses

• Fitness/Gym Membership: Around $40 per month
• Entertainment (cinema, clubs): Tickets start at $11–$15
• Personal Care: $50–$70 per month (haircuts, toiletries)
• Miscellaneous: $85–$120 monthly for clothing, subscriptions, and other incidentals

Cost of Living in Columbia for Students

Students keep the cost of living in Columbia reasonable by sharing housing, using student passes for transit, shopping for groceries efficiently, and accessing campus and city resources. The average cost of living in Columbia for students is generally $900–$1,500 per month, with most falling closer to the lower end if they share apartments.

Cost of Living in Columbia for International Students

International students in Columbia benefit from economical rent, reasonable food costs, and broad campus services. With average rent per student at $500–$700 (shared housing), the cost of living in Columbia is attractive to those comparing US study destinations. Factoring in insurance and personal spending, the typical international student’s monthly cost of living in Columbia is $1,000–$1,600.

Safety and Proximity

A key part of the cost of living in Columbia is balancing rent with location. Living closer to the University of South Carolina or the city center usually means higher rent, but students save on transportation, increase convenience, and often find safer, student-dense neighborhoods. Areas further from downtown or campus may reduce the cost of living in Columbia, but require a car or longer transit rides.

Conclusion and Call to Action

The cost of living in Columbia makes it one of the most affordable cities for students, single professionals, and families. With housing well below national averages—and comfortable budgets possible for students and international residents—the cost of living in Columbia is reliably lower than in many metropolitan areas. Looking for affordable student housing in Columbia? Check amber’s Columbia listings for the best, budget-friendly options.

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