Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Columbus, OH
Thinking of moving to Columbus, OH? With a vibrant population nearing 908,000 and a median home price of $255,000, Columbus offers affordable living, diverse neighborhoods, and a growing job market. Enjoy a moderate cost of living, short average commutes of about 22 minutes, and access to top educational institutions like Ohio State University. The city features a mix of sunny days, four-season weather, and ample amenities—making it an appealing choice for families and young professionals alike.
Demographics - Columbus, OH
Demographics - Columbus, OH
Columbus, Ohio is home to nearly 908,000 residents, offering a youthful median age of 32.4 and a balanced gender ratio. The city is diverse, with a population that is 56% White, 28% Black, and over 10% speaking languages other than English at home. This blend of cultures and backgrounds creates a vibrant urban atmosphere attractive to newcomers.
Population:
907,971
Density:
4,100 per sq mi
Median Age:
32.4
Gender Ratio:
97 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
10.2%
Ethnic Composition
White:
56.2%
Black:
28.0%
Asian:
6.3%
Others:
9.5%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Columbus, OH?
Columbus features a cost of living index below the national average, with a median home value of $255,000 and average monthly rent around $1,150. Utilities and other essentials remain affordable, making the city an appealing option for those seeking high quality of life at a reasonable price. State tax rates are moderate, contributing to the city’s overall affordability.
Median House Value:
$255,000
Gross Rent:
$1,150
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$125
Auto Insurance:
$1,130
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,800
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$610
State Taxes:
Low:
2.765%
|
High:
3.99%
Cost Of Living Index:
91.5
Grocery:
94.6
Housing:
82.1
Utilities:
94.2
Transportation:
89.5
Health Care:
98.7
Miscellaneous:
96.0
Crime
Is Columbus, OH a safe place to live?
Crime rates in Columbus are slightly above national averages, with 507 violent crimes and 3,142 property crimes per 100,000 residents. Residents have a 1 in 197 chance of experiencing a violent crime, while property crime risk is about 1 in 32. It's wise to research neighborhoods, as safety can vary across the city.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
507
Property Crimes Per 100k:
3,142
Crime Index:
3,649
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 197
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 32
Weather
What is the weather like in Columbus, OH year-round?
Columbus experiences all four seasons, with cold winters averaging lows near 22°F and warm summers reaching highs around 85°F. The city enjoys about 53% sunny days each year and receives roughly 39 inches of rainfall, offering a balanced climate for outdoor activities. Spring and fall bring mild, comfortable temperatures ideal for enjoying local parks and events.
Winter
Min:
22°F
Max:
39°F
Spring
Min:
43°F
Max:
68°F
Summer
Min:
65°F
Max:
85°F
Fall
Min:
47°F
Max:
70°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
39.3 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
53%
Neighbors
Columbus neighborhoods are characterized by a median household income of $61,600 and a poverty rate of 16.5%. Most residents enjoy a short commute of about 22 minutes, and nearly 90% have at least a high school education. The city’s communities are diverse, with over 10% of residents speaking a language other than English at home.
Median Income:
$38,900
Household Income:
$61,600
Family Income:
$75,400
Per Capita Income:
$34,100
Income Male:
$42,800
Income Female:
$37,600
Poverty Rate:
16.5%
Non English Speakers:
10.2%
Rent:
$1,150
Unemployment Rate:
4.1%
Public Transport Usage:
2.1%
Commute Time:
22.3 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
89.8%
Bachelors or More:
38.9%
Education
How are the schools in Columbus, OH?
Columbus offers a range of educational options, including strong public schools like Columbus Alternative High School and renowned institutions such as The Ohio State University. With nearly 39% of residents holding a bachelor's degree or higher, the city emphasizes education and lifelong learning. Private and community college options add to the accessibility and diversity of academic opportunities.
Public Schools
Name:
Columbus Alternative High School
Street:
2632 McGuffey Rd
Phone:
614-365-6006
Students:
950
Student Teacher Ratio:
19.5
Name:
Indianola Informal K-8 School
Street:
251 E Weber Rd
Phone:
614-365-5579
Students:
700
Student Teacher Ratio:
18.7
Private Schools
Name:
St. Charles Preparatory School
Street:
2010 E Broad St
Phone:
614-252-6714
Students:
650
Colleges
Name:
The Ohio State University
City:
Columbus
State:
OH
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
61,677
Name:
Columbus State Community College
City:
Columbus
State:
OH
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
25,000
Healthcare
Columbus boasts strong healthcare options, including major hospitals like Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center and Mount Carmel East. With 2.6 physicians per 1,000 residents and over 92% health insurance coverage, access to medical care is widely available. The city’s healthcare services and facilities are well-regarded, making it a reliable choice for families and individuals.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center
Address:
410 W 10th Ave, Columbus, OH 43210
Phone:
(614) 293-8000
Type:
General & Teaching
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
Mount Carmel East
Address:
6001 East Broad Street, Columbus, OH 43213
Phone:
(614) 234-6000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.6
Health Insurance Coverage:
92.0%
Health Care Index:
69.2
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Columbus, OH?
The Columbus housing market is affordable, with a median home price of $255,000 and an average rent of $1,150 for a two-bedroom unit. Home values have appreciated by nearly 5% in the past year, and the market offers a healthy mix of owner-occupied and rental properties. Vacancy rates remain moderate, offering a range of choices for buyers and renters alike.
Median Home Price:
$255,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$1,150
Owner Occupied Rate:
45.6%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
6.9%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
4.9%
New Construction Rate:
2.3%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.4%
DMV Information
Columbus residents are served by the Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles, conveniently located on West Broad Street. The DMV offers standard licensing and registration services, and helpful information can be found on their official website. Access to these services is straightforward for both new arrivals and long-term residents.
State:
Ohio
Department:
Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles
Address:
1970 West Broad Street, Columbus, OH 43223
Phone:
1-844-644-6268
Website:
Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is based on publicly available sources including AccuWeather, U.S. Census Bureau, local government data, and third-party partners such as Neustar. While we strive to ensure accuracy, all data is provided “as is” and should be independently verified before making any decisions. Movers.com makes no guarantees regarding the completeness or reliability of the information.