Columbus is considered moderately affordable in 2025, with average rent for a 2-bedroom apartment at $1,750 and grocery costs slightly below the national average.
Is the true cost of living in Columbus higher than you think? Many people are drawn to Ohio’s capital city for its vibrant culture, diverse neighborhoods, and strong job market. But before making the move, it’s important to understand what it really costs to live comfortably in Columbus in 2025. In this article, we’ll break down the monthly expenses you can expect, from housing and utilities to groceries and lifestyle considerations.
Housing Costs in Columbus
Housing is typically the biggest expense in any monthly budget. In Columbus, you’ll find a range of options from downtown apartments to spacious suburban homes. For renters, a typical 2-bedroom apartment goes for around $1,750 per month. However, prices can vary significantly by neighborhood:
- Short North: $2,100+
- Grandview Heights: $1,900
- Clintonville: $1,650
- Hilltop: $1,400
If you’re looking to buy, the median home price in Columbus is around $350,000 for a 3-bedroom house. But again, this can range from under $250K in areas like Whitehall to over $500K in desirable school districts like Dublin or Upper Arlington. Keep in mind that many neighborhoods also have HOA fees, which can add $200-400 to your monthly housing costs.
Utility Bills and Energy Costs
In addition to rent or mortgage, you’ll need to budget for basic utilities like electricity, gas, water, and trash service. For a typical 1,000 sq ft apartment in Columbus, you can expect to pay around:
| Utility | Avg. Monthly Cost |
|---|---|
| Electricity | $120 |
| Gas | $60 |
| Water/Sewer | $50 |
| Trash | $25 |
| Total | $255 |
Keep in mind that electricity costs can spike in the summer months due to air conditioning. Many older homes in Columbus also have higher heating bills in the winter compared to newer construction.
Groceries and Food Expenses
After housing and utilities, food is the next major living cost. Groceries in Columbus are actually about 5% cheaper than the national average. For a single person, budget around $300-350 per month for groceries. A couple can expect to spend $500-600.
Of course, your food budget will be higher if you frequently dine out. A typical fast casual meal in Columbus runs about $12-15 per person, while a nicer dinner for two might be $60-80 including tip. Assuming you eat out a few times a week, allocate at least $300 per person for restaurant meals.
Taxes and Fees in Columbus
Don’t forget to account for taxes in your monthly budget. If you own a home in Columbus, the property tax rate is around 2% of assessed value. For a $350,000 house, that’s about $7,000 per year or $580 per month.
Ohio also has a progressive state income tax, with rates ranging from 2.85% to 4.8% depending on your income bracket. Sales tax in Franklin County is 7.5%, which applies to most goods and some services. Finally, if you own a vehicle, annual registration fees are $34.50 plus an additional $20 for newer vehicles.
Monthly Cost of Living in Columbus
So what does this all add up to? Here’s a sample monthly budget breakdown for living in Columbus:
| Expense | Single Person | Couple | Family of 4 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Housing (rent/mortgage) | $1,500 | $1,800 | $2,200 |
| Utilities | $200 | $280 | $400 |
| Groceries | $350 | $600 | $1,000 |
| Dining Out | $300 | $500 | $600 |
| Transportation | $200 | $300 | $500 |
| Entertainment | $200 | $300 | $400 |
| Misc Expenses | $300 | $400 | $600 |
| Total Monthly Expenses | $3,050 | $4,180 | $5,700 |
| Gross Monthly Income Needed | $3,800 | $5,200 | $7,100 |
Remember, these figures are based on gross monthly income, meaning your pre-tax earnings. To live comfortably, you’ll need to make enough to cover both your monthly expenses and income taxes.
Lifestyle Considerations
Of course, your actual cost of living will depend on your lifestyle and priorities. Choosing to live in a walkable neighborhood like German Village may mean higher housing costs, but could save you money on transportation if you can bike or take public transit to work.
Columbus has a wide variety of neighborhoods to fit different budgets and preferences. For example, if having a large yard for your kids is a priority, you may get more bang for your buck in a suburb like Grove City compared to the Upper Arlington school district.
Access to parks, community events, and recreational activities is another factor to consider. The Columbus Metro Parks system includes over 230 miles of trails and 28,000 acres of land, most of which are free to the public. From the Scioto Mile downtown to the Battelle Darby Creek bison pasture, there are plenty of low-cost ways to enjoy the outdoors.
Frequently Asked Questions
What salary do you need to live comfortably in Columbus?
To live comfortably in Columbus, a single person needs to make around $3,800 per month before taxes. For a couple, aim for at least $5,200 in gross monthly income. Keep in mind that “comfortable” means being able to cover all your basic expenses while still having some flexibility for savings and discretionary spending.
Is Columbus cheaper than other major cities in Ohio?
Yes, Columbus is generally more affordable than Cleveland or Cincinnati, especially when it comes to housing. The median rent in Columbus is about 10% lower than in Cleveland and 5% lower than Cincinnati.
Are there any hidden costs to watch out for in Columbus?
One expense that often catches people off guard is the cost of parking, especially if you work or spend time downtown. Monthly parking garage rates can be $150+. Also, if you own a home, don’t forget to budget for maintenance and repair costs, which can add up to 1-3% of your home’s value per year.
What’s the cheapest neighborhood to live in Columbus?
Whitehall, Lincoln Village, and parts of the West Side are some of the most affordable areas, with median rents under $900. However, crime rates tend to be higher in these neighborhoods, so it’s important to do your research and prioritize safety.
Is it more expensive to live in the suburbs vs downtown Columbus?
It depends. Housing costs are often lower in the suburbs, but you may end up spending more on transportation, especially if you have a long commute. Suburban living can also mean higher utility bills, as you’re typically heating and cooling a larger space. Ultimately, it’s about finding the right balance for your budget and lifestyle.
Moving to a new city is a big decision, and it’s essential to understand the true cost of living before taking the leap. If you do decide to make Columbus your home, be sure to check out our guide to the best moving companies to help make your relocation as smooth as possible. With some careful planning and budgeting, you can enjoy all that Ohio’s vibrant capital city has to offer without breaking the bank.