Let the numbers do the talking.
Cleveland, OH vs Columbus, OH
Cleveland, OH vs Columbus, OH: What the data shows
Cleveland, OH is in Cleveland, OH while Columbus, OH is in Columbus, OH — both in the same state. On home prices, Cleveland, OH is the more affordable option at $232,200 median — $252,600 less than Columbus, OH's $484,800. WYLT rates Cleveland, OH as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing — and Columbus, OH as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration.
Both neighborhoods have similar safety profiles. Cleveland, OH has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. Columbus, OH has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Cleveland, OH has Low flood risk and Columbus, OH has Low flood risk.
Cleveland, OH is the more walkable neighborhood. Cleveland, OH scores 77/100 (very walkable) versus Columbus, OH's 71/100 (very walkable). For families weighing school quality, Columbus, OH has the higher school rating — Cleveland, OH rates 6.9/10 and Columbus, OH rates 7/10.
| Category | Cleveland, OH | Columbus, OH |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Think twice | Good for now |
| Median Price | $232K ✓ Lower price | $485K |
| Median Rent | $960 ✓ Lower rent | $1K |
| Median Income | $40K | $75K ✓ Higher income |
| Price Volatility | Moderate | Moderate |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 77/100 ✓ More walkable | 71/100 |
| Transit Score | 20/100 | 56/100 ✓ Better transit |
| Bike Score | 74/100 | 80/100 ✓ More bikeable |
| Commute | 14 min | 3 min ✓ Shorter commute |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | D+ | D+ |
| Violent Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| Property Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| Flood Risk | Low | Low |
| Air Quality | Moderate | Good ✓ Cleaner air |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 6.9/10 | 7/10 ✓ Better schools |
| Best for | Urban commutersStudentsRemote workers looking for walkable neighborhoods | young professionalscollege studentsremote workers |
Bottom line
For urban commuters and those who want a nightlife, Cleveland's 44106 area is a more affordable option with decent amenities. For young professionals and small families, however, Columbus's more expensive lifestyle and better schools in this area make it a better choice, despite higher costs. Ultimately, people with a preference for affordable housing and a walkable urban environment but who don't require high-quality schools should consider Cleveland.
Share this comparison