Cost of Living in Columbia, MO
Population 127,200 · Missouri · Data vintage 2023
(100 = US avg)
The Columbia cost-of-living profile is closer to the US median than most headline-grabbing metros — typical homes around $268,000, rents near $1,067 a month.
Cost Overview
Scale: 100 = US national average. Green < 90, Red > 110.
About the Cost of Living in Columbia
The median home value in Columbia is $268,300 — 12% below the national median of $305,000. Median rent runs $1,067/month, 19% lower than the national median of $1,314/month. The median household income of $64,488/year is 14% lower than the US median of $74,580. The local unemployment rate is 3.9%, below the national average of 4.8%. Missouri's top state income tax rate is 5.0% and the combined sales tax is 8.4%. Overall, Columbia has a cost of living index of 85 versus the US average of 100, meaning it is 15% less expensive.
🏠 Housing
HUD Fair Market Rents by Bedroom
💰 Estimated Monthly Budget
Estimates based on median data and national averages. Actual costs vary.
🛒 Food & Groceries
National BLS average prices (2023). Local prices may vary.
🚗 Transportation
Commute Mode
⚡ Utilities
📋 Taxes
💼 Income & Employment
🎓 Education
👥 Demographics
💨 Air Quality
EPA AQS 2023 — county-level monitoring data
🏫 Schools
NCES CCD 2019 — public school district data
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cost of living in Columbia, MO?
Columbia has a cost index of 85 (100 = national average). It is 15% below the national average.
What is average rent in Columbia, MO?
The median gross rent in Columbia is $1,067 per month based on 2023 Census data.
What is the average home price in Columbia?
The median home value in Columbia is $268,300 according to Zillow and Census data.
What is the median income in Columbia?
The median household income in Columbia is $64,488 per year (2023 ACS 5-year estimates).
What is the sales tax in Columbia, MO?
The combined state and local sales tax rate in Columbia is 8.4%. The Missouri state income tax top rate is 5.0%.
Is Columbia, MO affordable?
Yes, Columbia is generally considered affordable, with a cost of living index of 85 — about 15% below the US national average of 100.
Columbia at a Glance
- Population
- 127,200
- Median Income
- $64,488
- Home Value
- $268,300
- Median Rent
- $1,067/mo
- Unemployment
- 3.9%
- Sales Tax
- 8.4%
Nearby Cities
Explore county-level cost of living data
Missouri Rankings
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