Cost of living in Columbus
Columbus, Indiana, offers a unique blend of small-town charm and modern amenities. Understanding the cost of living in this city is crucial for potential residents and those considering relocation.
This guide provides a detailed breakdown of expenses in Columbus, covering everything from dining and groceries to housing and transportation.
Cost of Living Summary
Dining and Restaurants
- Inexpensive Restaurant Meal - A meal at a casual restaurant will typically cost $16 on average, with a range between $8 and $32.
- Mid-Range Restaurant (Three-Course Meal for Two) - For a more upscale dining experience, expect to pay around $54.5, with prices ranging from $45 to $80.
- Fast Food (e.g., McDonald's) - A McMeal or equivalent combo meal averages $8.5, with a range between $8 and $8.5.
- Beverages (e.g., Domestic Beer, Imported Beer, Cappuccino, Coke/Pepsi) - Domestic beer ranges from $3.25 to $10, imported beer $5 to $12, cappuccino $3 to $5, and Coke/Pepsi $2 to $3.
Grocery Prices
- Milk - Milk is priced between $0.71 and $1.06 per liter, averaging $0.81.
- Bread (Loaf of Fresh White Bread) - A loaf of fresh white bread costs between $1.47 and $4.41, with an average price of $2.81.
- Eggs (Dozen) - A dozen eggs range from $1.59 to $2.99, averaging $2.29.
- Fruits (e.g., Apples, Oranges) - Apples cost $3.9 to $5.67 per kg, while oranges range from $2.47 to $10.1 per kg.
- Vegetables (e.g., Potatoes, Lettuce) - Potatoes are priced at $3.31 per kg, and lettuce costs $1.5 to $2.99 per head.
Transportation
- Fuel (Gasoline) - Gasoline is priced between $0.71 and $0.94 per liter.
- Car Purchase - A new Volkswagen Golf costs $36,111.63, while a Toyota Corolla is priced at $26,427.25.
Housing Costs
- 1-Bedroom Apartment Rent (City Centre) - Rent for a 1-bedroom apartment in the city centre averages $1200.
- 1-Bedroom Apartment Rent (Outside Centre) - Outside the centre, rent averages $1000.
- 3-Bedroom Apartment Rent (City Centre) - Rent for a 3-bedroom apartment in the city centre averages $1400.
- 3-Bedroom Apartment Rent (Outside Centre) - Outside the centre, rent ranges from $1200 to $1500, averaging $1350.
- Buying Price per Square Meter (City Centre) - The price per square meter to buy an apartment in the city centre averages $1582.
- Buying Price per Square Meter (Outside Centre) - Outside the centre, the price per square meter also averages $1582.
Utilities
- Basic Utilities (Electricity, Heating, Water, etc.) - Basic utilities for an 85m2 apartment cost between $148.68 and $250, averaging $207.89.
- Internet - Internet services range from $55 to $120, with an average cost of $67.17.
Cost of Living Rankings
Columbus ranks 24th on the Cost of Living rankings in United States. The cost of living indices for the United States are compared to New York City (NYC), which serves as the baseline with an index of 100. These provide insights into the relative cost of living in different cities in United States, covering factors like consumer goods, rent, and purchasing power.
Cost of Living Data
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Salaries And Financing
Salaries And Financing
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"Key Takeaways"
Columbus, IN, offers a relatively affordable cost of living compared to larger cities. Housing and utility costs are moderate, making it an attractive option for families and individuals.
Dining out can be economical, especially at casual restaurants, while grocery prices remain competitive.
Transportation costs are manageable, with reasonable fuel prices and options for purchasing new vehicles.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Columbus, IN, presents a balanced cost of living with affordable housing and moderate utility expenses.
The city offers a variety of dining options and competitive grocery prices, making it a practical choice for those seeking a cost-effective lifestyle.
Overall, Columbus is a welcoming city with a cost structure that supports a comfortable living standard.