Columbus, OH vs Salem, OR: 83 vs 105

$1,224/mo ↓ 7%

Median Rent

$1,323/mo ↑ 8%

$65,327/yr ↓ 9%

Median Income

$71,900/yr ↑ 10%

$234,500 ↓ 39%

Home Value

$382,400 ↑ 63%

$1,243/mo ↓ 14%

Owner Costs

$1,440/mo ↑ 16%

906,480

Population

176,666

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Columbus, OH and Salem, OR, the overall cost of living indices are 83 and 105 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $99/month cheaper in Columbus, saving renters about $1,188/year.

Median household income is $6,573/year higher in Salem. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Columbus is $234,500 compared to $382,400 in Salem.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Columbus vs Salem — common questions

Is Columbus or Salem cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Columbus is cheaper to live in with an index of 83 compared to 105 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Columbus and Salem?

Median rent in Columbus is $1,224/month and in Salem it's $1,323/month — a difference of $99/month.

Which city has higher income, Columbus or Salem?

Median household income is $65,327 in Columbus and $71,900 in Salem. Median household income is $6,573/year higher in Salem.

How do taxes compare between Ohio and Oregon?

Ohio has 3.5% income tax, 5.75% sales tax, and 1.53% property tax. Oregon has 9.9% income tax, 0% sales tax, and 0.93% property tax.

Should I move to Columbus or Salem?

It depends on your priorities. Columbus has a cost index of 83 with median rent of $1,224/mo, while Salem has a cost index of 105 with rent of $1,323/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Columbus, OH vs Salem, OR (2026)

Columbus

Salem

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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