Moving from Dayton to Columbus (2026)
Columbus has a COL index of 83 vs 83 for Dayton (100 = US average). Expect to pay about 0% more for the same lifestyle.
Pay ~$30 more/mo
on core expenses · $75K salary baseline
Key differences
COL index
8383
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$1,100$1,100
per month
State tax
3.5%5.5%
income tax
Take-home at $75K
$4,522$4,397
per month
Salary needed in Columbus to match your Dayton lifestyle
Based on the 0% cost of living increase between the two cities.
| Your salary in Dayton | Equivalent in Columbus |
|---|---|
| $40K | $40,000 |
| $50K | $50,000 |
| $60K | $60,000 |
| $75K | $75,000 |
| $80K | $80,000 |
| $100K | $100,000 |
| $120K | $120,000 |
| $150K | $150,000 |
Monthly budget at $75K — Dayton vs Columbus
| Expense | Dayton | Columbus |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly take-home | $4,522 | $4,397 |
| 1BR rent | $1,100 | $1,100 |
| Groceries | $361 | $353 |
| Transport | $60 | $40 |
| Utilities | $162 | $160 |
| Internet | $58 | $58 |
| Left after essentials | $2,781 | $2,686 |
Frequently asked questions
Is Columbus cheaper than Dayton?
No. Columbus has a cost of living index of 83 vs 83 for Dayton (100 = US average). That's about 0% more expensive.
How much will I save moving from Dayton to Columbus?
On a $75K salary, moving from Dayton to Columbus could save roughly $30/month on core expenses. That's ~$360/year.
What salary do I need in Columbus to match my Dayton lifestyle?
To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Dayton, you'd need roughly $75,000/year in Columbus. This is based on the overall COL index difference between the two cities.
Moving from Columbus to DaytonDayton vs Columbus — full comparisonDayton cost of livingColumbus cost of living
Estimates based on Q1 2026 COL index and market data. Budget uses simplified federal/state tax rates at $75K. Zillow · BLS · Numbeo · For general guidance only