Let the numbers do the talking.
Columbus, OH vs Youngstown, OH
Columbus, OH vs Youngstown, OH: What the data shows
Columbus, OH is in Columbus, OH while Youngstown, OH is in Youngstown, OH — both in the same state. On home prices, Youngstown, OH is the more affordable option at $70,000 median — $336,700 less than Columbus, OH's $406,700. WYLT rates Columbus, OH as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing — and Youngstown, OH as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing.
Youngstown, OH has the stronger safety profile of the two. Columbus, OH has High violent crime and High property crime. Youngstown, OH has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Columbus, OH has Low flood risk and Youngstown, OH has Low flood risk.
Youngstown, OH is the more walkable neighborhood. Columbus, OH scores N/A/100 versus Youngstown, OH's 51/100 (somewhat walkable). For families weighing school quality, Youngstown, OH has the higher school rating — Columbus, OH rates 6.9/10 and Youngstown, OH rates 7/10.
| Category | Columbus, OH | Youngstown, OH |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Think twice | Think twice |
| Median Price | $407K | $70K ✓ Lower price |
| Median Rent | $1K | $360 ✓ Lower rent |
| Median Income | $43K ✓ Higher income | $11K |
| Price Volatility | Moderate | Moderate |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | Car-dependent | 51/100 ✓ More walkable |
| Transit Score | Minimal transit | 65/100 ✓ Better transit |
| Bike Score | N/A | 65/100 ✓ More bikeable |
| Commute | 7 min ✓ Shorter commute | 45 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 | 7/10 ✓ Better schools |
| Best for | Urban professionalsStudentsRemote workers who need city access | StudentsBudget rentersRemote workers with low salary |
Bottom line
For urban professionals, students, and remote workers looking for city access, downtown Columbus might be the better choice despite its high cost and safety concerns. However, if you're a budget-conscious renter or student who can handle high crime and limited amenities, Youngstown might be the more affordable option. Ultimately, if you prioritize safety and amenities, look elsewhere.
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