Let the numbers do the talking.
Columbus, OH vs Hilliard, OH
Columbus, OH vs Hilliard, OH: What the data shows
Columbus, OH is in Columbus, OH while Hilliard, OH is in Hilliard, OH — both in the same state. On home prices, Hilliard, OH is the more affordable option at $299,300 median — $107,400 less than Columbus, OH's $406,700. WYLT rates Columbus, OH as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing — and Hilliard, OH as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing.
Hilliard, OH has the stronger safety profile of the two. Columbus, OH has High violent crime and High property crime. Hilliard, OH has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Columbus, OH has Low flood risk and Hilliard, OH has Low flood risk.
Hilliard, OH is the more walkable neighborhood. Columbus, OH scores N/A/100 versus Hilliard, OH's 38/100 (mostly car-dependent). For families weighing school quality, Columbus, OH has the higher school rating — Columbus, OH rates 6.9/10 and Hilliard, OH rates 6.7/10.
| Category | Columbus, OH | Hilliard, OH |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Think twice | Think twice |
| Median Price | $407K | $299K ✓ Lower price |
| Median Rent | $1K ✓ Lower rent | $1K |
| Median Income | $43K | $104K ✓ Higher income |
| Price Volatility | Moderate | Low ✓ More stable |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | Car-dependent | 38/100 ✓ More walkable |
| Transit Score | Minimal transit | 26/100 ✓ Better transit |
| Bike Score | N/A | 25/100 ✓ More bikeable |
| Commute | 7 min ✓ Shorter commute | 30 min |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | F | D+ ✓ Safer |
| Violent Crime | High | Moderate ✓ Lower risk |
| Property Crime | High | Moderate ✓ Lower risk |
| Flood Risk | Low | Low |
| Air Quality | Moderate | Moderate |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 6.9/10 ✓ Better schools | 6.7/10 |
| Best for | Urban professionalsStudentsRemote workers who need city access | Families with kidsHigh‑earning commuters to ColumbusHomebuyers seeking solid schools |
Bottom line
Columbus downtown has higher property costs, zero walk score, and a 7‑minute commute but still faces safety and affordability issues. Hilliard offers more affordable homes, a walk score of 38, and solid schools, though it requires a 30‑minute drive. If you need urban proximity and can handle higher costs and safety concerns, choose Columbus; if you prioritize affordability, schools, and a more suburban feel, choose Hilliard.
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