Quick answer
Overall prices in the Columbus, OH metro were 95.5 vs 110.4 in San Jose, CA in 2024 (US = 100), so Columbus is 13.5% less expensive than San Jose; housing rents differ by 58% (87.9 vs 211.9). A $75,000 income in Columbus buys about what $86,748 buys in San Jose, per BEA.
Data as of 2024. Source: U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis, Regional Price Parities 2024
| Price index (US = 100) | Columbus | San Jose | Columbus vs San Jose |
|---|---|---|---|
| All items | 95.5 | 110.4 | -13.5% |
| Goods | 93.6 | 105.2 | -11.0% |
| Housing (rents) | 87.9 | 211.9 | -58.5% |
| Utilities | 95.5 | 156.7 | -39.0% |
| Other services | 98.9 | 100.3 | -1.3% |
| All items, 2008 | 96.6 | 119.3 | -19.0% |
| $50,000 in Columbus equals in San Jose | $57,832 | ||
| $100,000 in Columbus equals in San Jose | $115,664 | ||
| $150,000 in Columbus equals in San Jose | $173,496 |
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Last updated 2026-10-16. Data only, not financial or tax advice.