Chicago vs Columbus: cost of living compared
Columbus is 24% cheaper than Chicago overall. State income tax tops out around 3.5% in OH vs 4.95% in IL.
Indexes use a US average of 100: below 100 is cheaper than the national average. Housing and transportation are derived from median home prices, rents and commute times; figures come from BLS, Census ACS, Numbeo and the MIT Living Wage Calculator.
The big picture
Comparing Chicago and Columbus reveals a significant difference in overall cost of living. Chicago is noticeably more expensive across most categories, with its higher housing costs being the primary driver of this disparity. While other expenses like transportation, food, and healthcare also contribute to Chicago's higher price tag, the gap in housing expenses stands out as the most substantial factor influencing the overall budget for residents in these two major Midwestern cities.
Housing
Housing costs present a major contrast between these metros. Both median home prices and typical rental rates for a one-bedroom apartment are considerably higher in Chicago than in Columbus. Chicago offers a mix of high-rise living and traditional homes, often with higher property taxes and insurance costs. Columbus, in contrast, provides more affordable options for both renters and buyers, typically featuring a greater prevalence of single-family homes and lower associated ownership expenses.
Taxes and everyday costs
Daily expenses for transportation, food, healthcare, and utilities are generally higher in Chicago compared to Columbus. Commute times are also noticeably longer in Chicago, reflecting its larger size and denser traffic. Additionally, Illinois has a higher state income tax rate than Ohio, which impacts take-home pay. These factors combined mean that routine spending on groceries, medical care, and getting around will be more substantial in Chicago.
Lifestyle trade-offs
Beyond costs, lifestyle differences are apparent. Chicago, a major global city, offers extensive public transit options, a dense urban environment, and a wide array of cultural attractions, though it experiences colder, longer winters. Columbus, a growing state capital, has a more car-dependent culture, a somewhat less dense feel, and a generally milder climate. Both cities offer distinct Midwestern living experiences, but with different paces and scales.
Bottom line
For those considering a move between these two cities, the financial implications are clear: Columbus generally offers a more budget-friendly existence across the board. While Chicago provides the amenities and opportunities of a larger, more established global city, it comes with a significantly higher cost of living, especially for housing. A household budget will stretch further in Columbus, allowing for greater savings or discretionary spending compared to Chicago.
| Measure | Chicago, IL | Columbus, OH |
|---|---|---|
| Overall cost of living (US avg = 100) | 118 | 90 |
| Housing index | 97 | 71 |
| Transportation index | 121 | 86 |
| Food index | 105 | 92 |
| Healthcare index | 108 | 95 |
| Utilities index | 102 | 98 |
| Misc index | 108 | 88 |
| Median home price | $318,000 | $248,000 |
| Median 1-bedroom rent | $1,650/mo | $1,100/mo |
| Average commute | 34 min | 24 min |
Compare any two metros with the free cost of living tool, or see the true monthly cost of a specific Columbus home with the True Cost Calculator.