Factors influencing moving costs from Pittsburgh to Columbia
What to know before moving from Pittsburgh to Columbia
Moving from Pittsburgh to Columbia means adjusting to a different pace of life โ and a different price tag. On average, it costs significantly more to live in Pittsburgh than in Columbia, making the move an opportunity for many to enjoy a lower cost of living.
Check out how Pittsburgh compares to Columbia so you know what to expect before you relocate:
Pittsburgh | Columbia | |
---|---|---|
Average rent cost | $1,500 | $1,447 |
Average home value | $222,451 | $220,612 |
Average income (per capita) | $54,306 | $64,683 |
Cost of living (single person) | $2,129 | $1,956 |
Cost of living (family of 4) | $5,011 | $4,274 |
Unemployment rate | 7.1% | 5.2% |
Sales tax | 7.0% | 8.0% |
State income tax | 3.07% | 7.0% |
- Rent prices in Columbia are 4% lower than in Pittsburgh , which means youโll have more money in your pocket each month.
- Home prices are the same in Columbia and Pittsburgh .
- Income in Columbia is 19.1% higher than in Pittsburgh , so you could earn more 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 8.1% lower than in Pittsburgh . This includes routine expenses like utilities, groceries, clothing, and transportation.
- The cost of living for a family in Columbia is 14.7% lower than in Pittsburgh .
- The unemployment rate in Columbia is 26.76% lower than in Pittsburgh .
- Youโll spend more on retail and restaurants in Columbia, since the cityโs sales taxes in Columbia are 14.29% higher than in Pittsburgh .
- State income taxes in Columbia are 128.01% higher than in Pittsburgh .
To put this in perspective, you would need around $2,756.22 in Columbia to maintain the same standard of life that you can have with $3,000.00 in Pittsburgh .
How life is different in Pittsburgh vs. Columbia
Columbia | Pittsburgh | |
---|---|---|
Population | 136,632 | 303,255 |
AllTransit Transportation Performance Score | 5 | 8 |
Walkability score | 35 | 62 |
Bike friendliness score | 35 | 55 |
Crime Index | 3.0 | 37.74 |
Safety Index | 48.39 | 62.26 |
Air Quality | Good | Good |
- Columbia's population is about 55% less than Pittsburgh .
- Columbia's public transportation has a score of 5 out of 10 versus Pittsburgh 's higher score of 8.
- Columbia is less walkable than Pittsburgh with a score of 35 out of 100 vs Pittsburgh 's 62 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 Pittsburgh , which has a score of 55 out of 100.
- Columbia's crime rate is lower than Pittsburgh with a score of 3.0 compared to Pittsburgh 's 37.74. This means that Columbia neighborhoods are safer than 3.0% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Pittsburgh neighborhoods are safer than 37.74%.
- Columbia is considered to be less safe than Pittsburgh with a score of 48.39 vs Pittsburgh 's 62.26.
- Air quality in Columbia is good, and in Pittsburgh it's good.
Other things to consider for your Pittsburgh 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: To keep things running smoothly, make sure you're familiar with any HOA or community moving policies before the big day.
- Elevator reservation: Make sure to arrange elevator access in advance if your building requires reservations for moving.
- Truck parking permits: Make sure to look into local parking regulationsโsome areas require permits for large moving trucks.
- 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. Ensure the company you choose is licensed to handle your move.
- State regulator: You can verify a South Carolina moving company\โs license by visiting the state'spublic utilities commission
- Moving permits: You wonโt need a moving permit in South Carolina, though it\โs smart to double-check any local parking restrictions ahead of your move.
- Change of address: To avoid missing any mail, we recommend submitting your USPS change of address form at least a week before your move. You can choose your official move date to make sure everything gets forwarded properly toColumbia Start the process here.
- Moving company insurance: The amount and type of insurance movers must have depends on state regulations.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: Let our moving checklist guide you through the process and help ensure nothing slips through the cracks.
Where to live in Columbia
Now that youโve chosen "Soda City" as your next home, here are a few of the best neighborhoods in Columbia to check out.
Best neighborhoods for singles
- Cayce
- Seven Oaks
- Forest Acres
- West Columbia
- Woodfield
Best neighborhoods for families
- Irmo
- Blythewood
- Seven Oaks
- Chapin
- Cayce
Things to do in Columbia
Now that you've made the move to South Carolina, itโs the perfect time to explore Columbia. From local hotspots to hidden gems, thereโs something to enjoy for every lifestyle:
- Arts and culture: Youโll find museums and cultural hubs throughout Columbia, such as the South Carolina State Museum, Columbia Museum of Art, South Carolina Confederate Relic Room and Military Museum, EdVenture Children's Museum, and South Carolina Military Museum.
- Outdoor recreation: The cityโs Columbia Canal and Riverfront Park, Saluda Shoals Park, Sesquicentennial State Park, and Finlay Park โ along with other locations, ideal for trails, cycling, or enjoying the fresh air.
- Sports: Experience the energy of a live game and back the home team at an Columbia Fireflies (Baseball-Carolina League), South Carolina Gamecocks (SEC), or Benedict Tigers (SIAC) game.
FAQ
When is the best time to move from Pittsburgh to Columbia?
The best time to move from Pittsburgh to Columbia is during the spring or fall. These seasons offer milder weather and avoid higher moving costs during the peak moving season in Pittsburgh .
When is the cheapest time to move from Pittsburgh to Columbia?
Because most people are moving from Pittsburgh to Columbia in the spring or fall, you can often catch discounts by moving in the winter. Read our guide on moving discounts to learn more.
How long does a move from Pittsburgh to Columbia take?
The 538-mile move from Pittsburgh , PA, to Columbia, SC, takes one to six days. Some Pittsburgh movers may offer expedited moving if you need it faster. If you need more time, ask your mover about storage options in Columbia.