Although Columbus receives far less attention than cities like Cleveland and Cincinnati, it is actually the most populous city in Ohio. There are many elements that can make live in columbus From its affordable cost of living to its abundance of outdoor recreation, it’s growing in popularity. However, like any city, it is not without its drawbacks. Whether you want to move here depends on how you weigh the pros and cons. So if you are considering renting Columbus apartments or browse Homes for sale in the citysee this Redfin article to determine if Columbus, Ohio is a great place to live.
Interested in moving to Columbus? Check:
columbus homes for sale, oh | Columbus Apartments for Rent, oh | columbus houses for rent, oh
Facts about Columbus
| Median home sales price | $291,500 |
| average monthly rent | $1,360 |
| walk score | 41/100 |
| traffic score | 30/100 |
| bike score | 48/100 |
1. Pros: The cost of living in Columbus is relatively low
The cost of living in Columbus is relatively low compared to other major cities in the United States. For example, the cost of living in Cincinnati is 5% more expensive than Columbus, and the cost of living in Chicago is 23% more expensive than Columbus. Additionally, housing costs in the city are below average, with the median home sale price of approximately $291,500, well below average. national average $442,451.
2. Disadvantages: Columbus’ tax rate is higher than other big cities
One of the potential disadvantages of living in Columbus is the higher taxes. The city levies a 2.5% city income tax in addition to the 5% state income tax. Property taxes are also higher compared to other Ohio cities. While these taxes help fund city services and infrastructure, they can become a burden for some residents, especially those on fixed incomes or lower salaries. Additionally, Columbus’ sales tax rate is 7.5%, which is higher than the state’s average tax rate of 5.75%. Higher tax rates may make the cost of living in Columbus more expensive than other Ohio cities, which may be a consideration for those on a tight budget.
3. Pros: Columbus has a booming job market
The Columbus job market is booming, with a variety of industries and companies offering employment opportunities for job seekers. The city is home to several large employers in health care, finance, insurance and retail, including Nationwide Mutual, JPMorgan Chase and OhioHealth. Columbus’ tech industry is also growing rapidly, with both startups and established companies choosing the city as a center for innovation and expansion. The city’s low cost of living and high quality of life also make it an attractive destination for job seekers and employers alike.
4. Cons: Severe winters are common in Columbus
Columbus experiences harsh winters with freezing temperatures and frequent snow. The average winter temperature in Columbus is about 30 degrees Fahrenheit, occasionally dropping into the single digits. Snowfall is also common, averaging about 28 inches per year. During heavy snowfalls, it’s not uncommon for residential streets to go uncleared for periods of time. In addition, cold temperatures and snow can create hazards for drivers and pedestrians, and black ice and snow-covered roads pose a risk of accidents. Despite the challenges of winter weather, Columbus offers a variety of indoor activities and activities, such as museums, theaters, and shopping malls, to keep residents and visitors entertained during the colder months.
5. Pros: The city has many cultural attractions
Columbus has a rich cultural scene and offers locals a variety of attractions. The city is home to the renowned Columbus Museum of Art, which showcases a variety of exhibitions including contemporary art, photography, and folk art. Additionally, the Ohio Theater is an amazing performing arts venue that regularly presents Broadway productions and other touring shows. The Franklin Park Conservatory and Arboretum is an oasis of tranquility in the heart of the city, featuring a variety of indoor and outdoor exhibits showcasing exotic plants from around the world. For history buffs, the Ohio History Center offers a comprehensive look at Ohio’s past, with exhibits covering everything from prehistoric animals to the state’s role in the Civil War. Finally, the city’s vibrant food scene offers a unique cultural experience, with a wide variety of restaurants and food trucks offering cuisine from around the world.
6. Disadvantages: Air quality can be an issue in the summer
Columbus air quality In the summer, this can be a problem, especially for people with respiratory problems. The city is located in the Ohio River Valley near coal-fired power plants, which can contribute to elevated levels of ozone and particulate matter in the air. this Ohio Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) monitors air quality across the state and provides daily updates of the Air Quality Index (AQI), which rates air quality on a scale of 0 to 500. AQI tends to increase. However, the city has taken steps to improve air quality, such as implementing green infrastructure and promoting public transportation to reduce vehicle emissions. Despite these efforts, people with respiratory conditions may want to take precautions during periods of elevated AQI, such as limiting outdoor activities during peak hours and staying indoors in air-conditioned environments.
7. Pros: Columbus has no shortage of sports teams to cheer for.
Sports play an important role in the culture of Columbus, Ohio, with many professional and college teams representing the city. The Ohio State Buckeyes are a perennial powerhouse in college football with a passionate fan base that fills Ohio Stadium for every home game. The National Hockey League’s (NHL) Columbus Blue Jackets provide exciting competition on the ice, while the Major League Soccer League’s (MLS) Columbus Crew have won multiple championships and are beloved by the local soccer community. Additionally, the city is home to the minor league baseball team the Columbus Clippers and the professional lacrosse team the Ohio Machine. In addition to professional sports, Columbus hosts many amateur and youth sports events throughout the year, including marathons, bike races, and youth sports leagues.
8. Cons: Columbus nightlife pales in comparison to other cities
Columbus is a vibrant and growing city, but its nightlife scene is often considered limited compared to larger cities. While there are a variety of bars, pubs, and nightclubs throughout the city, the total number and variety of options may not compare to those in larger urban areas. Additionally, many of Columbus’ nightlife options are concentrated downtown, resulting in a feeling of overcrowding and limited variety.
9. Pros: Columbus has plenty of outdoor activities
Columbus offers a variety of outdoor activities for nature lovers and adventurers, making it an ideal place to live. The city’s Metro Parks system includes more than 20 parks and nature preserves, as well as miles of hiking, biking and running trails. The Scioto Mile is a scenic trail that runs along the Scioto River, offering stunning views of the city skyline and a variety of outdoor activities year-round. The Columbus Zoo and Aquarium is a world-renowned attraction with more than 10,000 animals and multiple outdoor exhibits offering unique outdoor experiences. For those seeking more extreme outdoor activities, the Olentangy River offers kayaking and canoeing opportunities, while the nearby Hocking Hills area offers stunning natural scenery and rock climbing Activity. In the winter, the city offers an ice skating rink, cross-country skiing trails, and even a toboggan run at nearby Mad River Mountain.
10. Disadvantages: Rapid population growth causes cities to become more crowded
Columbus’s rapid expansion has led to increased traffic congestion and longer commute times for some residents. The city’s suburban areas have grown significantly in recent years, posing a challenge to city planners who must balance the need for growth and development with the protection of the city’s natural resources and urban character.
method: Median home sales price and average monthly rent data come from Redfin Information Center. Walk score, transit score, and bike score data come from walk score.
