Moving from Chicago to Columbus: Cost of Living Guide

Why People Move from Chicago to Columbus

Columbus has become an increasingly popular destination for people leaving Chicago. A major draw is affordability — median rent in Columbus is $1,224 per month, which is 11% less than the $1,380 median in Chicago. With a population of 906,480, Columbus offers a smaller, more manageable city experience.

Housing Costs Compared

The median home value in Columbus, OH is $234,500, which is 26% lower than Chicago, IL's median of $315,200. For homebuyers, this represents significant savings.

For renters, monthly costs average $1,224 in Columbus versus $1,380 in Chicago. The rent-to-income ratio in Columbus is 22.5%, which is within the recommended 30% threshold.

Income and Employment

Median household income in Columbus, OH is $65,327, which is 13% lower than Chicago, IL's $75,134. While salaries tend to be lower, the reduced cost of living can offset this — you may end up with more disposable income despite a lower gross salary.

The unemployment rate in Columbus is 5.1% compared to 7.9% in Chicago. Columbus's lower unemployment suggests a stronger local job market.

The Bottom Line

Moving from Chicago to Columbus can save you approximately $156 per month on rent alone — that's $1,872 per year. Use our salary comparison calculator to see exactly what your current salary would be worth in Columbus.

Explore More