Columbus Ohio is the largest city in the state of Ohio and the 15th largest city in the United States. It is a great place to visit, but there are some things to consider before moving to Columbus. Here are 19 reasons why you might not want to move to Columbus, Ohio.
1. High Cost of Living
The cost of living in Columbus is higher than the national average, with housing costs, taxes, and other expenses making it difficult for many to afford. Additionally, the city has a high poverty rate, with over 20% of the population living below the poverty line.
2. Traffic Congestion
Columbus is home to a number of highways, but with the influx of people moving to the city, traffic congestion is becoming a major issue. The average commute time is over 30 minutes, and the city has some of the worst rush hour traffic in the country.
3. Poor Air Quality
Air quality in Columbus is often poor due to the city’s proximity to industrial areas and the presence of numerous highways. The city has some of the worst air pollution in the state, with levels of particulate matter often exceeding federal health standards.
4. Limited Job Opportunities
Despite the city’s growth, job opportunities in Columbus are limited. The city’s unemployment rate is higher than the national average, and many of the jobs available are low-paying or seasonal. Additionally, the city has one of the lowest median household incomes in the country.
5. Crime Rate
The crime rate in Columbus is higher than the national average, with property crime and violent crime rates both higher than the national average. Additionally, the city has seen a rise in gang activity in recent years.
6. Poor Public Transportation
Columbus has a limited public transportation system, with buses and trains running only during certain hours. Additionally, the city has limited access to bike paths and sidewalks, making it difficult to get around without a car.
7. Lack of Quality Schools
The quality of schools in Columbus is often lacking, with many of the city’s schools receiving low ratings. Additionally, the city has one of the highest dropout rates in the state, with over 30% of students not graduating high school.
8. Poor Housing Options
The housing market in Columbus is often expensive and limited, with most of the available options being older homes in need of repair. Additionally, the city has a high rate of homelessness, with over 10,000 people living on the streets.
9. Low Quality of Life
The quality of life in Columbus is often low, with the city having some of the worst ratings for health, safety, and education in the state. Additionally, the city has a high rate of poverty, with many residents struggling to make ends meet.
10. Lack of Cultural Diversity
Columbus is a relatively homogenous city, with the majority of the population being white. Additionally, the city has a low percentage of foreign-born residents, making it difficult to find diversity in the city.
11. Limited Recreational Opportunities
The recreational opportunities in Columbus are often limited, with few parks and other public spaces available. Additionally, the city has limited access to outdoor activities, with most of the available activities being located outside of the city.
12. Poor Weather
The weather in Columbus is often unpredictable, with temperatures ranging from hot to cold throughout the year. Additionally, the city experiences a high amount of snowfall, making it difficult to enjoy outdoor activities during the winter months.
13. High Taxes
Taxes in Columbus are higher than the national average, with income and property taxes both being higher than the national average. Additionally, the city has a high sales tax, making it difficult to afford everyday items.
14. Lack of Arts and Culture
Columbus has a limited arts and culture scene, with most of the available options being located outside of the city. Additionally, the city has few museums and other cultural attractions, making it difficult to find something to do on the weekends.
15. Poor Public Services
Public services in Columbus are often lacking, with many of the city’s services being underfunded and understaffed. Additionally, the city has a high rate of homelessness, with many of the available services being inadequate to meet the needs of the city’s residents.
16. Lack of Nightlife
Columbus has a limited nightlife, with most of the available options being located outside of the city. Additionally, the city has few bars and clubs, making it difficult to find something to do in the evenings.
17. Limited Shopping Options
The shopping options in Columbus are often limited, with most of the available options being located outside of the city. Additionally, the city has few malls and other shopping centers, making it difficult to find something to buy.
18. Low Quality Healthcare
The quality of healthcare in Columbus is often lacking, with many of the city’s hospitals and clinics receiving low ratings. Additionally, the city has a high rate of uninsured residents, making it difficult to access quality care.
19. Poor Economy
The economy in Columbus is often weak, with the city having one of the lowest median household incomes in the state. Additionally, the city has a high rate of unemployment, making it difficult to find steady employment.
In conclusion, there are many things to consider before moving to Columbus, Ohio. While the city has its share of attractions, it also has a number of drawbacks that should be taken into consideration before making the decision to move.