Is Columbus or Chicago more affordable?
Columbus has a median rent of $1,050/month, while Chicago is $1,209/month. Columbus is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Columbus, OH vs Chicago, IL
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Columbus and Chicago.
4
Columbus wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
1
Chicago wins
OH
Columbus
vs
IL
Chicago
Overview
905,748
Population
2,742,119
$53,373
Median Income
+23.2%$65,781✓
Cost of Living
$1,050✓
Median Rent / mo
+15.1%$1,209
$240,000✓
Median Home Price
+15.7%$277,600
24%
Rent-to-Income %
22%
Taxes
3.99%✓
State Income Tax
4.95%
7.50%
Local Tax Rate
0.00%
Climate & Weather
62°F
Avg High Temp
54.12°F
42°F
Avg Low Temp
49.03°F
178 days✓
Sunny Days / Year
N/A
39"
Annual Rainfall
N/A
Who should choose
Columbus, OH
Columbus is a city in Ohio with a population of 905,748.
Read full Columbus guide →Who should choose
Chicago, IL
Chicago is a city in Illinois with a population of 2,742,119.
Read full Chicago guide →Columbus vs Chicago — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Columbus or Chicago?
Ohio has a 3.99% state income tax. Illinois has a 4.95% state income tax. Columbus wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Columbus and Chicago?
Columbus gets 178 sunny days/year. Avg high in Columbus: 62°F. Avg high in Chicago: 54.12°F
Which city is better for families — Columbus or Chicago?
Columbus. Chicago. 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.