Quick answer
Overall prices in the Columbus, OH metro were 95.5 vs 97.9 in Richmond, VA in 2024 (US = 100), so Columbus is 2.4% less expensive than Richmond; housing rents differ by 11% (87.9 vs 99.1). A $75,000 income in Columbus buys about what $76,877 buys in Richmond, per BEA.
Data as of 2024. Source: U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis, Regional Price Parities 2024
| Price index (US = 100) | Columbus | Richmond | Columbus vs Richmond |
|---|---|---|---|
| All items | 95.5 | 97.9 | -2.4% |
| Goods | 93.6 | 96.8 | -3.2% |
| Housing (rents) | 87.9 | 99.1 | -11.3% |
| Utilities | 95.5 | 89.2 | +7.1% |
| Other services | 98.9 | 98.6 | +0.3% |
| All items, 2008 | 96.6 | 98.1 | -1.6% |
| $50,000 in Columbus equals in Richmond | $51,251 | ||
| $100,000 in Columbus equals in Richmond | $102,502 | ||
| $150,000 in Columbus equals in Richmond | $153,754 |
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Last updated 2026-10-16. Data only, not financial or tax advice.