Columbus, OH vs Jersey City, NJ: 83 vs 148

$1,224/mo ↓ 36%

Median Rent

$1,902/mo ↑ 55%

$65,327/yr ↓ 31%

Median Income

$94,813/yr ↑ 45%

$234,500 ↓ 56%

Home Value

$534,500 ↑ 128%

$1,243/mo ↓ 38%

Owner Costs

$2,006/mo ↑ 61%

906,480

Population

289,691

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Columbus, OH and Jersey City, NJ, the overall cost of living indices are 83 and 148 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $678/month cheaper in Columbus, saving renters about $8,136/year.

Median household income is $29,486/year higher in Jersey City. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Columbus is $234,500 compared to $534,500 in Jersey City.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Columbus vs Jersey City — common questions

Is Columbus or Jersey City cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Columbus is cheaper to live in with an index of 83 compared to 148 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Columbus and Jersey City?

Median rent in Columbus is $1,224/month and in Jersey City it's $1,902/month — a difference of $678/month.

Which city has higher income, Columbus or Jersey City?

Median household income is $65,327 in Columbus and $94,813 in Jersey City. Median household income is $29,486/year higher in Jersey City.

How do taxes compare between Ohio and New Jersey?

Ohio has 3.5% income tax, 5.75% sales tax, and 1.53% property tax. New Jersey has 10.75% income tax, 6.625% sales tax, and 2.23% property tax.

Should I move to Columbus or Jersey City?

It depends on your priorities. Columbus has a cost index of 83 with median rent of $1,224/mo, while Jersey City has a cost index of 148 with rent of $1,902/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Columbus, OH vs Jersey City, NJ (2026)

Columbus

Jersey City

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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