Cost of Living: Philadelphia, PA vs Columbus, OH (2026)

Philadelphia

Pennsylvania
85
VS

Columbus

Ohio
83

Philadelphia and Columbus have a similar cost of living.

$1,323/mo ↑ 8%
Median Rent
$1,224/mo ↓ 7%
$60,698/yr ↓ 7%
Median Income
$65,327/yr ↑ 8%
$232,400 ≈ Same
Home Value
$234,500 ≈ Same
$1,233/mo ≈ Same
Owner Costs
$1,243/mo ≈ Same
1,582,432
Population
906,480

Tax Comparison

3.07%
Income Tax
3.5%
6.0%
State Sales Tax
5.75%
1.49%
Property Tax
1.53%

Affordability

26.2%
rent-to-income
Affordability
22.5%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Philadelphia, PA and Columbus, OH, the overall cost of living indices are 85 and 83 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $99/month cheaper in Columbus, saving renters about $1,188/year.

Median household income is $4,629/year higher in Columbus. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Philadelphia is $232,400 compared to $234,500 in Columbus.

Pennsylvania has a lower income tax rate, making Philadelphia slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Philadelphia vs Columbus — common questions

Is Philadelphia or Columbus cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Columbus is cheaper to live in with an index of 83 compared to 85 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Philadelphia and Columbus?
Median rent in Philadelphia is $1,323/month and in Columbus it's $1,224/month — a difference of $99/month.
Which city has higher income, Philadelphia or Columbus?
Median household income is $60,698 in Philadelphia and $65,327 in Columbus. Median household income is $4,629/year higher in Columbus.
How do taxes compare between Pennsylvania and Ohio?
Pennsylvania has 3.07% income tax, 6.0% sales tax, and 1.49% property tax. Ohio has 3.5% income tax, 5.75% sales tax, and 1.53% property tax.
Should I move to Philadelphia or Columbus?
It depends on your priorities. Philadelphia has a cost index of 85 with median rent of $1,323/mo, while Columbus has a cost index of 83 with rent of $1,224/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
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