Cheapest Cities Near Columbus (2026)

Columbus has a cost of living index of 91 (US avg = 100). Here are 8 more affordable metros to consider as alternatives.

More affordable alternatives

1
Flint, MI15% cheaper
COL: 771BR: $880/moSave $370/mo on rent
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2
McAllen, TX14% cheaper
COL: 781BR: $950/moSave $300/mo on rent
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3
Jackson, MS13% cheaper
COL: 791BR: $1,000/moSave $250/mo on rent
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4
Springfield, MO13% cheaper
COL: 791BR: $950/moSave $300/mo on rent
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5
Laredo, TX13% cheaper
COL: 791BR: $950/moSave $300/mo on rent
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6
Evansville, IN12% cheaper
COL: 801BR: $990/moSave $260/mo on rent
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7
Topeka, KS12% cheaper
COL: 801BR: $940/moSave $310/mo on rent
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8
El Paso, TX12% cheaper
COL: 801BR: $1,050/moSave $200/mo on rent
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Columbus at a glance

91
COL index
100 = US avg
$1,250
1BR rent
per month
$270K
Home price
median
3%
State tax
income

Cities with similar cost of living

Kansas City, MOCOL: 91Fort Worth, TXCOL: 91Spokane, WACOL: 91Pittsburgh, PACOL: 92

COL index sourced from Numbeo, Zillow, and BLS data · Q1 2026 · For general guidance only