Quick answer
Overall prices in the Washington, DC metro were 108.9 vs 95.5 in Columbus, OH in 2024 (US = 100), so Washington is 14.1% more expensive than Columbus; housing rents differ by 72% (151.1 vs 87.9). A $75,000 income in Washington buys about what $65,760 buys in Columbus, per BEA.
Data as of 2024. Source: U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis, Regional Price Parities 2024
| Price index (US = 100) | Washington | Columbus | Washington vs Columbus |
|---|---|---|---|
| All items | 108.9 | 95.5 | +14.1% |
| Goods | 104.8 | 93.6 | +12.0% |
| Housing (rents) | 151.1 | 87.9 | +71.9% |
| Utilities | 106.7 | 95.5 | +11.7% |
| Other services | 102.3 | 98.9 | +3.4% |
| All items, 2008 | 114.8 | 96.6 | +18.8% |
| $50,000 in Washington equals in Columbus | $43,840 | ||
| $100,000 in Washington equals in Columbus | $87,680 | ||
| $150,000 in Washington equals in Columbus | $131,519 |
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Last updated 2026-10-16. Data only, not financial or tax advice.