Is Columbus or Houston more affordable?
Columbus has a median rent of $1,050/month, while Houston is $1,250/month. Columbus is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Columbus, OH vs Houston, TX
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Columbus and Houston.
3
Columbus wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
2
Houston wins
OH
Columbus
vs
TX
Houston
Overview
905,748
Population
2,304,580
$53,373✓
Median Income
-1.9%$52,338
Cost of Living
$1,050✓
Median Rent / mo
+19.0%$1,250
$240,000✓
Median Home Price
+10.4%$265,000
24%
Rent-to-Income %
29%
Taxes
3.99%
State Income Tax
None✓
7.50%
Local Tax Rate
8.25%
Climate & Weather
62°F
Avg High Temp
77°F
42°F
Avg Low Temp
57°F
178 days
Sunny Days / Year
204 days✓
39"
Annual Rainfall
50"
Who should choose
Columbus, OH
Columbus is a city in Ohio with a population of 905,748.
Read full Columbus guide →Who should choose
Houston, TX
Houston is a city in Texas with a population of 2,304,580.
Read full Houston guide →Columbus vs Houston — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Columbus or Houston?
Ohio has a 3.99% state income tax. Texas has no state income tax. Houston wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Columbus and Houston?
Columbus gets 178 sunny days/year. Houston gets 204 sunny days/year. Avg high in Columbus: 62°F. Avg high in Houston: 77°F
Which city is better for families — Columbus or Houston?
Columbus. Houston. 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.