Head to head
Chicago, IL vs Columbus, OH
Columbus is cheaper — estimated essentials for a single person run about $534/mo less, and living comfortably there takes roughly $14,000 less in annual salary (taxes included).
| Metric | Chicago61 | Columbus75 |
|---|---|---|
| Est. monthly cost (single) | $3,962 | $3,428 |
| Salary for comfort | $74,500/yr | $60,500/yr |
| Typical rent | $1,600 | $1,260 |
| Median home value | $315,200 | $234,500 |
| Median household income | $75,134 | $65,327 |
| Unemployment | 4.5% | 3.5% |
| Housing score | 53 | 74 |
| Jobs score | 32 | 56 |
| Safety score | 29 | 59 |
| Climate score | 87 | 91 |
| Amenities score | 94 | 69 |
| Population | 2.7M | 906.5K |
| Summer high / winter low | 84° / 21° | 85° / 22° |
Fit scores use the reference profile (single, $6,700/mo gross, default weights). Green marks the better value per row.
Chicago, IL
Columbus, OH