Mortgage Rates in Columbia, South Carolina — April 2026
Updated April 2026 | Based on Columbia market data and regional lending conditions
With a population of 136,632, Columbia, South Carolina offers a lower cost of living than most metro areas. The current 30-year fixed rate here is 6.71% (0.62% above the national average). The median home price of $215,000 translates to roughly $1,213/month with 20% down — requiring an income of about $51,986, which exceeds the local median of $45,825.
Whether you call it a 30-year mortgage, 30-year home loan, 30-year house loan, or 30-year mortgage loan, the underlying product is the same: a fixed-rate amortizing loan paid over 360 months. In Columbia, SC, the current 30-year rate is 6.71%. Shorter terms (15-year fixed at 5.95% or 20-year fixed, typically priced between the 15- and 30-year) reduce total interest paid but increase monthly payments — see our 15-year vs 30-year comparison for the math. Government-backed options include FHA loans (6.31%) and VA loans (6.11%), often available at lower rates with reduced down payment requirements.
Current Mortgage Rates in Columbia, SC
Below are the current average mortgage rates available in the Columbia area as of April 2026. Rates vary by lender, credit score, and loan-to-value ratio. Use our free calculator above to see your personalized estimate.
| Loan Type | Rate | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| 30-Year Fixed | 6.71% | 6.09% | +0.62% |
| 15-Year Fixed | 5.95% | 5.58% | +0.37% |
| 5/1 ARM | 6.21% | 5.95% | +0.26% |
| FHA | 6.31% | 5.85% | +0.46% |
| VA | 6.11% | 5.65% | +0.46% |
| Jumbo | 6.91% | 6.25% | +0.66% |
Columbia Housing Market Overview
At $215,000, Columbia offers more affordable housing than most U.S. metros. The local cost of living index is 89.5 (100 = national average), and the median household income of $45,825 still requires careful budgeting at current rate levels.
Monthly Payment Breakdown for Columbia
Based on the median home price of $215,000 with 20% down ($43,000), here is what you can expect to pay monthly in Columbia:
15-Year vs. 30-Year Mortgage in Columbia
Choosing a 15-year mortgage in Columbia at 5.95% instead of a 30-year at 6.71% would save you $139,500 in total interest over the life of the loan. However, your monthly payment would be $1,447 instead of $1,111 — an increase of $336 per month.
Calculate Your Columbia Mortgage Payment
Use our free calculator to get a personalized estimate based on your loan amount, interest rate, and term.
Open Free CalculatorFrequently Asked Questions About Mortgages in Columbia
What are the current mortgage rates in Columbia, SC?
As of April 2026, the average 30-year fixed mortgage rate in Columbia, South Carolina is 6.71%, while the 15-year fixed rate is 5.95%. FHA loans average 6.31% and VA loans 6.11%. These rates are 0.62% above the national average of 6.09%.
How much is a monthly mortgage payment in Columbia?
Based on the median home price of $215,000 with 20% down, the estimated monthly mortgage payment in Columbia is $1,111 for principal and interest. Including property taxes of $102/month, the total monthly housing cost is approximately $1,213.
What income do I need to buy a home in Columbia?
Using the 28% rule, you would need an annual income of approximately $51,986 to afford the median-priced home in Columbia at $215,000. The median household income in Columbia is $45,825. This means most households would need to either earn above the median or consider homes below $215,000.
Is Columbia a good place to buy a home in 2026?
Columbia offers a below-average cost of living with a cost of living index of 89.5 (national average = 100). The property tax rate in South Carolina is 0.57%, which is below the national average. Columbia has a population of 136,632 and offers a very affordable lifestyle.
Mortgage Rates in Other South Carolina Cities
Related Tools & Guides
📊 Sources & Methodology
- 30-yr/15-yr fixed rates: Freddie Mac Primary Mortgage Market Survey (PMMS), weekly national average adjusted for South Carolina regional spread.
- Median home price: $215,000 sourced from Redfin / Zillow real estate listings (2026 data).
- Property tax rate: 0.57% effective rate per Tax Foundation 2026 state property tax data.
- Median household income: $45,825 per US Census Bureau ACS 5-year estimate.
- Calculations: standard amortization formula M = P[r(1+r)^n] / [(1+r)^n − 1], with r = monthly rate, n = 360 months, P = loan amount (80% of home price).
Last updated: April 2026. Rates are approximate averages based on regional lending data for the Columbia, South Carolina area. Individual rates may vary by lender, credit score, loan amount, and other factors. Use our free calculator for a personalized estimate.