Quick answer
Overall prices in the San Diego, CA metro were 111.9 vs 95.5 in Columbus, OH in 2024 (US = 100), so San Diego is 17.2% more expensive than Columbus; housing rents differ by 104% (179.3 vs 87.9). A $75,000 income in San Diego buys about what $63,995 buys in Columbus, per BEA.
Data as of 2024. Source: U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis, Regional Price Parities 2024
| Price index (US = 100) | San Diego | Columbus | San Diego vs Columbus |
|---|---|---|---|
| All items | 111.9 | 95.5 | +17.2% |
| Goods | 108.0 | 93.6 | +15.3% |
| Housing (rents) | 179.3 | 87.9 | +103.8% |
| Utilities | 174.2 | 95.5 | +82.4% |
| Other services | 99.6 | 98.9 | +0.7% |
| All items, 2008 | 113.7 | 96.6 | +17.8% |
| $50,000 in San Diego equals in Columbus | $42,663 | ||
| $100,000 in San Diego equals in Columbus | $85,326 | ||
| $150,000 in San Diego equals in Columbus | $127,989 |
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Last updated 2026-10-16. Data only, not financial or tax advice.