Quick answer
Overall prices in the Chicago, IL metro were 103.6 vs 95.5 in Columbus, OH in 2024 (US = 100), so Chicago is 8.5% more expensive than Columbus; housing rents differ by 27% (112.0 vs 87.9). A $75,000 income in Chicago buys about what $69,117 buys in Columbus, per BEA.
Data as of 2024. Source: U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis, Regional Price Parities 2024
| Price index (US = 100) | Chicago | Columbus | Chicago vs Columbus |
|---|---|---|---|
| All items | 103.6 | 95.5 | +8.5% |
| Goods | 107.3 | 93.6 | +14.6% |
| Housing (rents) | 112.0 | 87.9 | +27.4% |
| Utilities | 83.6 | 95.5 | -12.5% |
| Other services | 100.5 | 98.9 | +1.6% |
| All items, 2008 | 105.4 | 96.6 | +9.2% |
| $50,000 in Chicago equals in Columbus | $46,078 | ||
| $100,000 in Chicago equals in Columbus | $92,156 | ||
| $150,000 in Chicago equals in Columbus | $138,234 |
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Last updated 2026-10-16. Data only, not financial or tax advice.