Affordability crisis in Columbia? You have to make triple the minimum wage to live in the city.

As rents continue to rise, along with the cost of groceries, Columbia/Richland County residents are feeling the squeeze.
KBIA

Columbia city workers get a 3.5% raise as living costs adjust

COLUMBIA — More than 1,600 city of Columbia employees will see a 3.5% total wage increase following months of negotiation sessions between union workers and city management. The 3.5% increase is made ...
KOMU

Columbia City Manager responds to wage protests, audit of capital project cost

COLUMBIA — Columbia workers stood in protest outside City Hall on Monday afternoon asking for an increase in wages. The protestors, part of LiUNA Local 955 union, held signs that read: "Living wage ...
Marketplace

What, exactly, does “cost of living” mean — and how is it calculated?

The phrase “cost of living” has been popping up a lot as inflation has boosted prices in the last few years. It’s also top of mind for policymakers — and for employers when they set salaries and ...
Columbia Daily Tribune

These are Columbia's proposed water rate changes after a cost-of-service study

A few years ago Columbia had to adjust its base water rate to make up for shortfalls due a rate change freeze during the first COVID-19 pandemic years. There also was a water rate adjustment last year ...