Dublin, OH vs. Columbus, OH: Cost of Living Comparison (2025)
Considering a move to Dublin or Columbus, Ohio? Here’s a rapid-fire cost comparison to help you choose:
- 🏘️ Median Home Price: $550K in Dublin vs $350K in Columbus
- 🛋️ Average 2BR Rent: $1,800 in Dublin vs $1,400 in Columbus
- 🥑 Groceries: 5-10% higher in Dublin
- ⚡ Utilities: Similar in both cities
- 🏫 Property Taxes: 2.2% in Dublin vs 2.0% in Columbus
This article provides a detailed cost of living comparison between Dublin and Columbus. It’s perfect for families relocating, professionals choosing between job offers, or anyone comparing the real-life cost of Dublin vs Columbus in 2025. All income figures are expressed in gross monthly income (pre-tax).
Housing Costs
Housing is the biggest factor in the cost of living difference between Dublin and Columbus. Here’s how typical housing expenses compare:
| Housing Type | Dublin | Columbus |
|---|---|---|
| Median Home Price | $550,000 | $350,000 |
| Mortgage Payment* | $2,750 | $1,750 |
| 2BR Apartment Rent | $1,800 | $1,400 |
*Assuming 20% down, 30-year fixed mortgage at 4% interest
🏆 Winner: Columbus. Housing costs are significantly lower in Columbus compared to Dublin, with savings of $1,000+/month on a typical mortgage.
Utilities and Energy Costs
Utility costs are fairly similar between Dublin and Columbus. Expect to pay around $150-200/month for electricity, gas, water, and trash. Both cities experience cold winters and mild summers, so heating and cooling needs are comparable.
🏆 Winner: Tie. No significant difference in utility costs.
Groceries and Daily Expenses
Groceries and everyday items tend to cost 5-10% more in Dublin compared to Columbus. For a family of four, budget around $1,000/month for groceries in Dublin vs $900 in Columbus.
Eating out is also pricier in Dublin. A meal for two at a mid-range restaurant averages $75 in Dublin compared to $60 in Columbus.
🏆 Winner: Columbus. Expect about 10% savings on food and daily expenses in Columbus.
Taxes and Fees
Property taxes are slightly higher in Dublin at an average rate of 2.2% vs 2.0% in Columbus. For a $500K home, that’s a difference of $1,000/year.
Both cities charge a 2.5% local income tax on top of Ohio’s state income tax of about 4%. Sales tax is 7.5% in Dublin and 7.75% in Columbus.
🏆 Winner: Columbus. Lower property taxes give Columbus a slight edge.
Cost of Living Summary
| Category | Dublin | Columbus |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | $2,750 | $1,750 |
| Utilities | $180 | $180 |
| Groceries | $1,000 | $900 |
| Transportation | $500 | $450 |
| Taxes | $1,500 | $1,250 |
| Misc | $500 | $500 |
| Estimated Monthly Total | $6,430 | $5,030 |
Lifestyle Fit
While Dublin offers more space and highly-rated schools, Columbus provides an urban lifestyle with better walkability and public transit. Columbus averages 5°F warmer than Dublin in the winter.
For a deeper look at monthly expenses, see our guide on the Average Monthly Expenses in Dublin, OH. If you’re planning a move, our Best Moving Companies Guide can help you find reliable movers and compare costs.
FAQ
Is Dublin more affordable than Columbus?
No, the cost of living is higher in Dublin, mainly due to more expensive housing. Expect to pay 20-30% more to live in Dublin.
Which city has lower rent?
Columbus has lower average rent prices. A typical 2BR apartment costs $1,400/month in Columbus compared to $1,800 in Dublin.
Where is it cheaper to buy a home?
Columbus offers much lower home prices. The median in Columbus is around $350,000 vs $550,000 in Dublin.
Conclusion
While Dublin offers a suburban lifestyle and top-notch schools, Columbus is more affordable across the board. A household moving from Dublin to Columbus might save $1,400/month on housing and living costs.
Young professionals and those who prefer city amenities may find Columbus a better fit. Growing families craving space and highly-rated schools may prefer Dublin if budget allows.
Considering other Ohio cities? Check out our cost of living comparisons for Cincinnati, Cleveland, and Dayton.