($1,433) Movers From Austin, TX to Columbia, SC

What to know before moving from Austin to Columbia

Moving from Austin to Columbia means adjusting to a different pace of life — and a different price tag. On average, it costs significantly more to live in Austin than in Columbia, making the move an opportunity for many to enjoy a lower cost of living.

Check out how Austin compares to Columbia so you know what to expect before you relocate:

• Rent prices in Columbia are 18% lower than in Austin, which means you’ll have more money in your pocket each month.
• In terms of homeownership, you’ll be able to get more for your money in Columbia.
  Home prices in Columbia are 56.6% lower than in Austin.
• Income in Columbia is 5.2% lower than in Austin, so you could earn less for doing the same job. The top employers in Columbia include Pure Fishing, LexiCode, and BlueCross BlueShield of South Carolina.
• The cost of living for a single person in Columbia is 41.5% lower than in Austin. This includes routine expenses like utilities, groceries, clothing, and transportation.
• The cost of living for a family in Columbia is 45.3% lower than in Austin.
• The unemployment rate in Columbia is 48.57% higher than in Austin.
• You’ll spend less on retail and restaurants in Columbia, since the city’s sales taxes in Columbia are 3.03% lower than in Austin.
• State income taxes in Columbia are 7.00% higher than in Austin.

To put this in perspective, you would need around $1,754.26 in Columbia to maintain the same standard of life that you can have with $3,000.00 in Austin.

How life is different in Austin vs. Columbia

• Columbia's population is about 86% less than Austin.
• Columbia's public transportation has a similar score to Austin.
• Columbia is less walkable than Austin with a score of 35 out of 100 vs Austin's 42 out of 100.
• Columbia has a bike-friendliness score 35 out of 100, which means it isn't as accessible to and safe for cyclists as Austin, which has a score of 54 out of 100.
• Columbia's crime rate is lower than Austin with a score of 3.0 compared to Austin's 42.91. This means that Columbia neighborhoods are safer than 3.0% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Austin neighborhoods are safer than 42.91%.
• Columbia is considered to be less safe than Austin with a score of 48.39 vs Austin's 59.87.
• Air quality in Columbia is good, and in Austin it's good.

Other things to consider for your Austin vs. Columbia move

• Weather: If you're considering to move to Columbia, SC, better to consider during October, April and May to make sure weather will be pleasant.
• HOA rules: It’s a good idea to look into your HOA or community regulations before moving day arrives.
• Elevator reservation: If your building has an elevator, it’s a good idea to secure a reservation before your moving day.
• Truck parking permits: To avoid fines or delays, check whether a parking permit is needed for your moving truck.
• State licensing: To promote safety, economic development, and ethical business practices, the South Carolina Office of Regulatory Staff (ORS) oversees movers in the state. They are responsible for inspecting, examining, and auditing public utility providers like movers. Before booking, ensure the moving company is officially licensed to handle your move.
• State regulator: To confirm a moving company’s license in South Carolina, visit the state's public utilities commission
• Moving permits: While South Carolina doesn’t mandate moving permits, checking local parking guidelines before your move-in day is still a good idea.
• Change of address: We recommend submitting your USPS change of address form at least one week before your move to ensure your mail gets forwarded to Columbia without delay. You can select your official move date when completing the form. Start the process here.
• Moving company insurance: Every state sets its own rules for what insurance moving companies need to maintain. When moving in South Carolina, explore movers' insurance options. Many offer Released Value Protection at no extra cost, covering items at 60 cents per pound. For enhanced protection, discuss Full Value Protection with the moving company or consider third-party insurance providers. Prioritize understanding coverage limits and potential extra costs. Read reviews to make an informed decision on the best insurance for your South Carolina move.
• Moving checklist: Our moving checklist gives you the peace of mind that comes with being fully prepared.

Where to live in Columbia

With your sights set on "Soda City", these are some of the most popular neighborhoods to consider in Columbia.

Helpful moving resources