Columbus, Ohio is more than just a great place to live and work, it’s a city where your salary can go further than in other areas of the country. The cost of living in Columbus is 5.7% lower than the national average, offering residents the rare combination of professional opportunity and personal affordability. Home to cutting-edge startups and established industry leaders, Columbus has earned its growing reputation for innovation, collaboration, and community. With competitive salaries and a thriving arts and culture scene, see how the cost of living stacks up in Columbus.
A hub for startups, healthcare systems, higher education institutions, and industry giants, Columbus has built one of the most diverse economies in the region. It’s often dubbed the “Silicon Valley of the Midwest” for good reason — tech is booming here, and it’s bringing competitive salaries along with it.
As of May 2025, the unemployment rate in Ohio hovered at 4.8%, slightly above the national average. Yet Columbus continues to grow and attract investment. The city is the economic engine of the state, helping Ohio maintain the seventh-largest state economy in the U.S.
In 2024, Wells Fargo selected Columbus as its next major tech hub. But it’s not just about headline-grabbing employers. Big and small companies alike are expanding here. Ohashi Technica, a global automotive parts supplier, recently announced an $11 million expansion to its Sunbury facility, adding 20,000 square feet and new job opportunities to the region. The city is also proactively investing in workforce development. The Columbus City Council approved $1.8 million in funding for seven job training programs in partnership with Aspyr, a local workforce board that connects job seekers with businesses in need of talent.
With startups scaling, corporate offices relocating, and new industries emerging, it’s never been a better time to build a meaningful career in Columbus.
In a city like Columbus, a $100K salary gives you more than just breathing room — it gives you options.
Let’s start with housing, often the biggest expense in any budget. As of May 2025, the average rent for a one-bedroom apartment stands at $1,161, 29% less than the national average of $1,625. For those looking to purchase a home, the average listing price is approximately $430,465, which is about 14% lower than the national average.
While utilities and groceries are slightly above the national average, slightly elevated costs are easily offset by the significantly lower housing prices. In addition, transportation costs are more manageable thanks to shorter commutes and less traffic than major metro areas like Chicago or New York.
When you stack Columbus up against coastal cities (and traditional tech hubs) like San Francisco, New York, or Los Angeles, the difference in purchasing power is dramatic. A $100K income that barely covers a modest lifestyle in a high-cost city becomes a foundation for savings, travel, and investing in Columbus. Whether you're buying a home, building an emergency fund, or saving for retirement, Columbus makes it easier to live well while planning for your financial future.
Columbus isn't just about affordability; it's a city rich in culture and community. The Short North Arts District offers a vibrant mix of galleries, boutiques, and eateries. German Village provides historic charm with its brick streets and unique architecture. For nature enthusiasts, the city's extensive park system and proximity to outdoor attractions like Hocking Hills offer ample recreational opportunities. In fact, Columbus has many great neighborhoods to match the lifestyle you want to live.
The city's central location also means easy access to other Midwest cities. Within a 3-hour drive of Columbus, you can reach destinations like Indianapolis, Cleveland, Cincinnati, and Detroit. This easy access enhances both professional and personal travel opportunities. With a growing reputation for innovation and inclusivity, Columbus is increasingly recognized as a top destination for those seeking a balanced and enriching lifestyle.
In today’s landscape, where rising housing costs and economic uncertainty have made it harder than ever for people to build stable, fulfilling lives, finding a city that offers both opportunity and quality of life is no small feat. Many urban centers are pricing out young professionals and families. Meanwhile, Columbus, with its blend of affordable living, job opportunities across sectors like tech, healthcare, and manufacturing, and a thriving arts and food scene, offers a place to not just work but to truly thrive.
Whether you're starting your career, raising a family, or seeking a fresh start, Columbus has the big city energy and small town charm and offers salaries and a cost of living that provide financial flexibility to make your dreams and priorities a reality.