Athens-Clarke County vs Columbia
Fair Market Rent Comparison — HUD 2025 Data
Quick Answer
Athens-Clarke County is 4% cheaper for renters. A 2-bedroom rents for $891/mo vs $927/mo in Columbia — saving $432/year.
Rent by Unit Size
| Unit Size | Athens-Clarke County | Columbia | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio | $596 | $644 | $48 |
| 1 Bedroom | $714 | $771 | $57 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $891 | $927 | $36 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,137 | $1,178 | $41 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,198 | $1,341 | $143 |
| Median Income | $52,645 | $53,072 | $427 |
Athens-Clarke County
- Studio
- $596/mo
- 1 BR
- $714/mo
- 2 BR
- $891/mo
- 3 BR
- $1,137/mo
- 4 BR
- $1,198/mo
- Median Income
- $52,645/yr
Columbia
- Studio
- $644/mo
- 1 BR
- $771/mo
- 2 BR
- $927/mo
- 3 BR
- $1,178/mo
- 4 BR
- $1,341/mo
- Median Income
- $53,072/yr
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Athens-Clarke County or Columbia cheaper to rent in?
Athens-Clarke County is cheaper — a 2-bedroom Fair Market Rent is $891/mo vs $927/mo in Columbia. That's $36/mo or $432/year more expensive in Columbia (4% higher).
What is the 2-bedroom rent in Athens-Clarke County vs Columbia?
The HUD Fair Market Rent for a 2-bedroom in Athens-Clarke County is $891/month. In Columbia, a 2-bedroom FMR is $927/month.
How do incomes compare between Athens-Clarke County and Columbia?
The median household income in Athens-Clarke County is $52,645/year. In Columbia it is $53,072/year. Columbia has the higher median income.
What is the studio rent in Athens-Clarke County vs Columbia?
A studio apartment Fair Market Rent in Athens-Clarke County is $596/mo. In Columbia it is $644/mo.