Ohio
Moderate tax burden · COL index 88
Wins 8 categories
California
High tax burden · COL index 142
Wins 4 categories
California's top income tax rate is 13.3% vs Ohio's 3.5%. Cost of living in California (index 142) runs 61% higher than Ohio (index 88). Property taxes are meaningfully different: Ohio averages 1.37% annually vs California's 0.71%. The median home in California costs $790K vs $235K in Ohio.
Taxes
Housing & Cost of Living
Crime & Safety
Healthcare
Education
Childcare
Utilities & Daily Costs
Social Policy
Category wins
8
Ohio
4
California
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Which state is better to live in, Ohio or California?
Final Verdict—Ohio vs. California Ohio is safer than California and boasts a higher quality of education under more conducive learning environments. Moreover, if affordability, lower living costs, and a family-friendly environment are your priorities, Ohio is an excellent choice.
Why are so many people leaving California and what happens when they move?
Why would someone move from California to Ohio?
One says: “If you like working twice as hard just to stay right where you are, go for it. But if you're ready to build, lead and live, and I mean really live in the heart of it all, Ohio is the second most affordable state to buy a home. Your move.”
How much cheaper is Ohio than California?
Ohio vs. California at a Glance Ohio's overall cost of living is 30%–40% lower than California's, making it generally more affordable.