Is Boston or Columbus more affordable?
Boston has a median rent of $1,783/month, while Columbus is $1,050/month. Columbus is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Boston, MA vs Columbus, OH
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Boston and Columbus.
1
Boston wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
4
Columbus wins
MA
Boston
vs
OH
Columbus
Overview
672,814
Population
905,748
$81,744✓
Median Income
-34.7%$53,373
Cost of Living
$1,783
Median Rent / mo
-41.1%$1,050✓
$610,400
Median Home Price
-60.7%$240,000✓
26%
Rent-to-Income %
24%
Taxes
5.00%
State Income Tax
3.99%✓
0.00%
Local Tax Rate
7.50%
Climate & Weather
45.41°F
Avg High Temp
62°F
42.48°F
Avg Low Temp
42°F
N/A
Sunny Days / Year
178 days✓
N/A
Annual Rainfall
39"
Who should choose
Boston, MA
Boston is a city in Massachusetts with a population of 672,814.
Read full Boston guide →Who should choose
Columbus, OH
Columbus is a city in Ohio with a population of 905,748.
Read full Columbus guide →Boston vs Columbus — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Boston or Columbus?
Massachusetts has a 5.00% state income tax. Ohio has a 3.99% state income tax. Columbus wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Boston and Columbus?
Columbus gets 178 sunny days/year. Avg high in Boston: 45.41°F. Avg high in Columbus: 62°F
Which city is better for families — Boston or Columbus?
Boston. Columbus. The right choice depends on your priorities — income, affordability, taxes, and climate all play a role.
More city comparisons
Data sourced from U.S. Census Bureau, Bureau of Labor Statistics, and NOAA. Green values indicate a better outcome for that metric.