Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
52% cheaper
Columbus is 52% more affordable than Brooklyn. A $75,000 salary in Brooklyn is equivalent to $35,769 in Columbus.
Index values shown. National average = 100. Lower is cheaper.
To maintain the same standard of living:
See exact take-home pay: New York salaries · Ohio salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Brooklyn has a housing index of 325 while Columbus sits at 82 (national average = 100). The median home in Brooklyn costs $780,000 compared to $240,000 in Columbus, a difference of $540,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $2,900 in Brooklyn versus $1,200 in Columbus.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a notable difference: Brooklyn scores 108 while Columbus scores 99.
Healthcare costs in Brooklyn (108) are higher than Columbus (96).
Median household income in Brooklyn is $65,294 compared to $56,590 in Columbus. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Columbus.
Amazon affiliate links