Average Rent in Columbia, SC (2026)
Typical asking rent in Columbia is $1,471. Across the 10 ZIP codes with data it runs from $1,161 to $1,776, so which side of town you buy on matters as much as the city average. Data as of June 2026.
Rent by ZIP code in Columbia
| ZIP code | County | Typical rent | vs city median |
|---|---|---|---|
| 29229 | Richland County | $1,776 | +21% |
| 29201 | Richland County | $1,679 | +14% |
| 29212 | Lexington County | $1,620 | +10% |
| 29209 | Richland County | $1,536 | +4% |
| 29205 | Richland County | $1,489 | +1% |
| 29206 | Richland County | $1,453 | -1% |
| 29223 | Richland County | $1,434 | -3% |
| 29203 | Richland County | $1,319 | -10% |
| 29204 | Richland County | $1,286 | -13% |
| 29210 | Richland County | $1,161 | -21% |
How to use these numbers
These are Zillow Observed Rent Index values, a smoothed measure of typical asking rent for single family homes, condos, and apartments in each ZIP code. They describe what units are listed for, not what any specific unit will get. Condition, bedroom count, and the exact block all move the number.
If you are underwriting a purchase, use the ZIP figure rather than the city median, and then verify against live listings for the same bedroom count before you commit. Columbia sits in the Columbia, SC metro area.
Other South Carolina cities
Would a rental in Columbia cash flow?
Start the analyzer with the Columbia median rent of $1,471 and add a real purchase price to see cash flow, cap rate, and cash-on-cash return.