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.

Among these expenses, the most significant portion of a person's salary will likely go to accommodation and utilities. Transport expenses will also have to be budgeted for, as a vehicle is more or less a necessity 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, and buying property in Columbus is generally considered a good investment thanks to the continuous healthy growth of the real estate industry.

The cost of utilities won't break the bank either, as they tend to hover around the same price as the US average.

Cost of transport and driving in Columbus

Options for public transport are few in Columbus, and if you're living 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 a pricier endeavour than in cities with comprehensive public transport systems.

Cost of groceries in Columbus

Living in Columbus, you can enjoy the advantage of grocery prices that are consistently below the state and national averages. This affordability extends across a range of essential items, making daily living more economical for those residing in the city.

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

Cost of entertainment and eating out in Columbus

While lifestyle preferences will have a significant impact on entertainment expenses, those keeping a close eye on their budget will still be able to find great bargains thanks to the wide variety of options on offer.

With seemingly boundless natural attractions in the form of parks, rivers and lakes, alongside cultural attractions such as galleries and museums, there's plenty to do in Columbus 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.

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.

Cost of healthcare in Columbus

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