Westerville, OH vs. Dublin, OH: Cost of Living Comparison (2025)
This article provides a cost of living comparison: Westerville vs Dublin. It is perfect for families relocating, professionals choosing between job offers, or anyone comparing the real-life cost of Westerville vs Dublin in 2025.
Meet the Johnsons, a family of four debating a move to the Columbus suburbs. They’re torn between the charm of Westerville and the amenities of Dublin. Let’s break down the key costs to see which city fits their budget.
1. Housing Costs
Housing is the biggest factor in the cost of living in Westerville vs Dublin. Here’s what the Johnsons can expect to pay monthly for a typical 3-bedroom home:
| City | Median Rent | Median Mortgage |
|---|---|---|
| Westerville | $1,850 | $1,650 |
| Dublin | $2,200 | $2,000 |
🏆 Winner: Westerville. The Johnsons could save $350/month on rent or a mortgage payment by choosing Westerville over Dublin.
2. Utilities and Energy Costs
Utility costs are similar between the two cities. The Johnsons can expect to pay around $200-250/month for electricity, gas, water, and trash services in either suburb. Both have energy-saving programs to help manage summer A/C bills.
🏆 Winner: Tie. Utility costs are comparable in Westerville and Dublin.
3. Groceries and Daily Expenses
The Johnsons enjoy cooking family meals at home. They’ll find grocery costs about 5% lower in Westerville compared to Dublin. Eating out is also slightly cheaper, with entrees averaging $12-15 instead of $15-18.
🏆 Winner: Westerville. The Johnsons can stretch their food budget further in Westerville.
4. Taxes and Fees
Both cities have a 2.5% local income tax on top of Ohio’s state taxes. However, property taxes are higher in Dublin at 2.26% vs. 2.02% in Westerville. The Johnsons can also expect Dublin HOA fees to run $50-100/month more than in Westerville neighborhoods.
🏆 Winner: Westerville. Lower property taxes and HOA fees give Westerville the edge.
5. Cost Summary
To get a full picture, here’s a breakdown of the Johnsons’ estimated monthly expenses in each city:
| Category | Westerville | Dublin |
|---|---|---|
| Housing (Mortgage) | $1,650 | $2,000 |
| Utilities | $225 | $225 |
| Groceries | $800 | $840 |
| Transportation | $500 | $500 |
| Taxes & Fees | $600 | $750 |
| Misc Expenses | $500 | $500 |
| Estimated Monthly Total | $4,275 | $4,815 |
The Johnsons could save around $540 per month on their monthly budget living in Westerville. That’s nearly $6,500 per year.
6. Lifestyle Fit
Of course, cost is just one factor. The Johnsons are also weighing:
- Westerville: Quieter, more walkable neighborhoods. Smaller yards.
- Dublin: Newer homes with open layouts. Top-rated schools. Longer commutes.
Westerville has a cozy, small-town vibe with mature trees lining the streets. Dublin feels more polished and fast-paced, with pristine landscaping and upscale shopping centers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Westerville more affordable than Dublin?
A: Yes, the cost of living is about 10-15% lower in Westerville across major categories like housing, food, and taxes.
Q: Which city has lower rent?
A: Westerville has lower rental rates, with a typical 3BR home around $350/month less than in Dublin.
Q: Where is it cheaper to buy a home?
A: Westerville has lower median home prices and property taxes, making it more affordable for buyers. See our full cost of living in Westerville breakdown.
The Bottom Line
For the budget-conscious Johnsons, Westerville comes out ahead. They can get more space for their money while still enjoying great schools and amenities. However, Dublin remains appealing for those prioritizing newer construction and prestige.
Ultimately, the choice depends on your family’s lifestyle and financial goals. We recommend comparing moving company quotes and spending a weekend exploring both cities before deciding.
Want to see how other Columbus suburbs stack up? Check out our cost of living guides for popular areas like Bexley, Grandview Heights, and Upper Arlington.