Columbia, MS vs Union, MS

Union is moderately more affordable than Columbia, with a 11.4% lower cost of living index. Columbia scores 60 compared to 54 for Union, where the US average is 100. This difference means residents of Columbia can expect to pay noticeably more for everyday expenses, housing, and services.

On the housing front, median rent in Columbia is $656/month compared to $464/month in Union — a 41% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Union is more affordable at $105,600 median vs $112,100.

Median household income in Columbia is $34,328 compared to $42,791 in Union (-19.8%). Union offers a double advantage: higher earnings combined with a lower cost of living, giving residents significantly more purchasing power. Looking at affordability, residents of Columbia spend roughly 22.9% of their income on rent, more than the 13% in Union.

Climate-wise, Columbia is notably warmer with an average of 66.5°F compared to 63.2°F in Union. Columbia receives more rainfall at 58.9" per year compared to 58.2" in Union.