Cost of living in Columbus

The cost of living in Columbus is one of the city's biggest drawcards, and new arrivals will be glad to know that they can get more bang for their buck here than in many other major US cities. Most expenses in Columbus come in well below the US average.

Most of a person's salary will likely go to accommodation and utilities. Transport expenses must also be budgeted for, as a vehicle will likely be necessary in Columbus.

Cost of accommodation in Columbus

When it comes to accommodation, Columbus has plenty of high-quality options at exceedingly reasonable prices. Rental prices are low compared to the US average.

Thanks to the continuous healthy growth of the real estate industry, buying property in Columbus is generally considered a good investment. The cost of utilities will also not break the bank, as they tend to hover around the same price as the US average.

Finding Accommodation in Columbus
Best Neighbourhoods in Columbus

Cost of transport in Columbus

Columbus offers few public transport options, and if you live outside the city centre, you will almost certainly need a car to get around. The combined cost of purchasing, maintaining, and insuring a car makes transport more expensive than in cities with comprehensive public transport systems.

Getting Around in Columbus

Cost of groceries in Columbus

Columbus's grocery prices are consistently below the state and national averages. This affordability extends to various essential items, making daily life more economical for city residents.

If you're on a budget, a few grocery stores are known for their lower prices. Notable among these are Save-A-Lot, Aldi, Meijer, Dollar General, and Walmart, which offer some of the most competitive prices in the city.

Cost of entertainment and eating out in Columbus

While lifestyle preferences will significantly impact entertainment expenses, if you're keeping a close eye on your budget, you can still find great bargains thanks to the wide variety of options available.

With seemingly boundless natural attractions in the form of parks, rivers, and lakes, alongside cultural attractions such as galleries and museums, Columbus has plenty to do without spending a cent. On the other hand, a night out at a high-end cocktail bar or one of Columbus's top-notch eateries can result in a hefty bill.

Lifestyle in Columbus

Cost of education in Columbus

Apart from minor expenses such as stationery and school lunches, public education is available at no cost to both US and legal residents of Columbus. As is the case in most cities, public schools can be a mixed bag, with some performing poorly while others are high achievers.

Since school attendance is determined by zoning, securing a place at a good public school does depend on where you live. More expensive areas tend to have better schools. Still, with the high-value, low-cost accommodation on offer in Columbus, even comparatively expensive areas are well-priced.

Private schools are another option and aren't bound by catchment areas, giving you more freedom to choose where you live. Private school fees and obligatory extras are usually pricey, so you should ensure your budget can accommodate the cost before committing to a private school.

Education and Schools in Columbus

Cost of healthcare in Columbus

Healthcare in Columbus is of high quality, with many qualified practitioners and excellent facilities. While largely cheaper than in other major cities, healthcare costs in Columbus can quickly add up, which may surprise those relocating to the US from countries with publicly funded healthcare systems. To access the exceptional quality of care offered to residents in Columbus, we recommend you invest in a comprehensive health insurance policy.

Healthcare and Health Insurance in Columbus