Quick answer
Overall prices in the Austin, TX metro were 98.1 vs 95.5 in Columbus, OH in 2024 (US = 100), so Austin is 2.7% more expensive than Columbus; housing rents differ by 37% (120.4 vs 87.9). A $75,000 income in Austin buys about what $73,014 buys in Columbus, per BEA.
Data as of 2024. Source: U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis, Regional Price Parities 2024
| Price index (US = 100) | Austin | Columbus | Austin vs Columbus |
|---|---|---|---|
| All items | 98.1 | 95.5 | +2.7% |
| Goods | 93.8 | 93.6 | +0.1% |
| Housing (rents) | 120.4 | 87.9 | +36.9% |
| Utilities | 82.0 | 95.5 | -14.1% |
| Other services | 96.2 | 98.9 | -2.7% |
| All items, 2008 | 99.6 | 96.6 | +3.1% |
| $50,000 in Austin equals in Columbus | $48,676 | ||
| $100,000 in Austin equals in Columbus | $97,352 | ||
| $150,000 in Austin equals in Columbus | $146,028 |
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Last updated 2026-10-16. Data only, not financial or tax advice.