Columbus, OH vs Denver, CO: 83 vs 147

$1,224/mo ↓ 31%

Median Rent

$1,770/mo ↑ 45%

$65,327/yr ↓ 29%

Median Income

$91,681/yr ↑ 40%

$234,500 ↓ 60%

Home Value

$586,700 ↑ 150%

$1,243/mo ↓ 32%

Owner Costs

$1,839/mo ↑ 48%

906,480

Population

713,734

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Columbus, OH and Denver, CO, the overall cost of living indices are 83 and 147 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $546/month cheaper in Columbus, saving renters about $6,552/year.

Median household income is $26,354/year higher in Denver. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Columbus is $234,500 compared to $586,700 in Denver.

Ohio has a lower income tax rate, making Columbus slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Columbus vs Denver — common questions

Is Columbus or Denver cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Columbus is cheaper to live in with an index of 83 compared to 147 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Columbus and Denver?

Median rent in Columbus is $1,224/month and in Denver it's $1,770/month — a difference of $546/month.

Which city has higher income, Columbus or Denver?

Median household income is $65,327 in Columbus and $91,681 in Denver. Median household income is $26,354/year higher in Denver.

How do taxes compare between Ohio and Colorado?

Ohio has 3.5% income tax, 5.75% sales tax, and 1.53% property tax. Colorado has 4.4% income tax, 2.9% sales tax, and 0.51% property tax.

Should I move to Columbus or Denver?

It depends on your priorities. Columbus has a cost index of 83 with median rent of $1,224/mo, while Denver has a cost index of 147 with rent of $1,770/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Columbus, OH vs Denver, CO (2026)

Columbus

Denver

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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