Ohio · Population 906,480 · Updated March 2026
How far your income goes in Columbus
State-level tax rates that affect your costs
Columbus is significantly cheaper than the national average, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious individuals and families. With a cost index of 83 (where 100 equals the national median), Columbus residents can expect to pay median rent of $1,224/month while earning a median household income of $65,327/year.
The median home value in Columbus, OH is $234,500, with typical monthly owner costs around $1,243 including mortgage, insurance, and taxes. The median rent-to-income ratio of 22.5% means housing is relatively affordable here — well below the 30% threshold that HUD considers cost-burdened.
Ohio has a moderate income tax rate of 3.5%. Combined with a 5.75% sales tax rate and 1.53% effective property tax rate, the overall tax environment is a factor in the total cost of living in Columbus.
Common questions about living costs in Columbus