Quick answer
Overall prices in the Philadelphia, PA metro were 102.6 vs 95.5 in Columbus, OH in 2024 (US = 100), so Philadelphia is 7.4% more expensive than Columbus; housing rents differ by 29% (113.1 vs 87.9). A $75,000 income in Philadelphia buys about what $69,819 buys in Columbus, per BEA.
Data as of 2024. Source: U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis, Regional Price Parities 2024
| Price index (US = 100) | Philadelphia | Columbus | Philadelphia vs Columbus |
|---|---|---|---|
| All items | 102.6 | 95.5 | +7.4% |
| Goods | 96.8 | 93.6 | +3.4% |
| Housing (rents) | 113.1 | 87.9 | +28.6% |
| Utilities | 114.4 | 95.5 | +19.8% |
| Other services | 103.1 | 98.9 | +4.2% |
| All items, 2008 | 106.4 | 96.6 | +10.2% |
| $50,000 in Philadelphia equals in Columbus | $46,546 | ||
| $100,000 in Philadelphia equals in Columbus | $93,091 | ||
| $150,000 in Philadelphia equals in Columbus | $139,637 |
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Last updated 2026-10-16. Data only, not financial or tax advice.