Ohio strikes the perfect balance between affordable living and big-city perks. From the vibrant streets of Columbus and Cleveland to quiet suburbs, Ohio’s cost of living sits comfortably below the national average, making it a draw for those who want big-city amenities without the high price tag. Whether you’re eyeing a trendy apartment in downtown Columbus or a single-family home in Cincinnati, you’ll find that housing here is affordable across the board. With housing costs low and everyday expenses like groceries and healthcare easy on the wallet, it’s a great place for those looking to get more bang for their buck. Here’s what you need to know about the cost of living in Ohio.
Housing costs: Median home prices and average rent in Ohio
Housing costs in Ohio are a major draw for anyone looking to keep living expenses in check. With an average rent of $1,160, Ohio is well below the national average of $1,645, making it one of the more affordable states for renters. Cities like Cleveland, Cincinnati, and Columbus offer a range of options, from apartments to spacious suburban homes, often at prices significantly lower than what you’d find in other major cities across the country. The state’s relatively low home prices also reflect the affordability of homeownership, with many Ohio cities providing an enticing opportunity for first-time buyers. Overall, the cost of living in Ohio remains refreshingly affordable, allowing both renters and homeowners to enjoy a comfortable lifestyle without breaking the bank.
OH housing costs: Average rents and median home sale prices
| City in Idaho | 1 Bed Avg. Rent | 2 Bed Avg. Rent | Median Home Sale Price |
| National Average | $1,495 | $1,725 | $428,000 |
| Akron | $880 | $1,130 | $142,250 |
| Cincinnati | $1,635 | $2,030 | $260,700 |
| Cleveland | $1,525 | $2,120 | $125,000 |
| Columbus | $1,400 | $1,750 | $280,000 |
| Dayton | $840 | $1,120 | $134,000 |
| Lorain | $600 | $725 | $146,500 |
| Middletown | $900 | $1,100 | $215,000 |
| Springfield | $800 | $900 | $145,000 |
| Toledo | $800 | $960 | $130,000 |
| Youngstown | $830 | $980 | $115,000 |
Housing costs in popular cities in Ohio
Akron
Known as the “Rubber Capital of the World” due to its historic ties to the tire industry, Akron is an affordable city in northeastern Ohio with a median rent well below the national average. With an average rent of around $880 for a one-bedroom apartment, Akron falls well below both Ohio’s average rent of $1,160 and the national average of $1,645. Homebuyers can also find exceptional value, with a median home sale price of $142,250—a significant contrast to the national median of $428,000. For those looking to get the most out of their housing budget, Akron presents an affordable and well-rounded living environment in the state.
Cincinnati
Cincinnati offers an urban lifestyle with a Midwest twist. Although the city’s housing costs are higher than the state average, with a one-bedroom around $1,635 and a two-bedroom at $2,030, Cincinnati’s amenities and vibrant arts scene make it worth considering. The median home price is approximately $260,700, which is more affordable than the national median, especially given Cincinnati’s mix of riverfront parks, historic districts, and cultural attractions.
Cleveland
With an average rent of $1,525 for a one-bedroom, Cleveland is one of Ohio’s pricier rental markets, but it still sits below the national average. However, homeownership is remarkably accessible, with the median price of homes for sale in Cleveland sitting at just $125,000. Cleveland’s housing affordability, paired with its renowned institutions, draws residents seeking a budget-friendly lifestyle without sacrificing entertainment and amenities. Cleveland’s historic neighborhoods and waterfront access add further appeal, balancing affordability with a dynamic city environment.
Columbus
As the state capital, Columbus offers a balanced cost of living with moderately priced housing and a thriving economy. The average rent here is $1,400 for a one-bedroom apartment and $1,750 for a two-bedroom—both comfortably under the national average but slightly above the average rent in Ohio ($1,160). For those considering buying a home in Columbus, the median sale price here is $280,000, reflecting the city’s growing demand. Known for its diverse neighborhoods, like the Short North Arts District and German Village, Columbus has something for everyone, from students at Ohio State University to young professionals and families.
Toledo
Toledo stands out as one of Ohio’s most affordable cities, especially for renters and homebuyers on a budget. With an average rent of just $800 for a one-bedroom apartment and $960 for a two-bedroom, Toledo offers considerable savings compared to Ohio’s average rent of $1,160 and the national average. Home prices are equally appealing, with a median price of $130,000, making homeownership within reach for many. Located along the shores of Lake Erie, Toledo offers residents waterfront views, a strong industrial base, and a lower cost of living than most Ohio cities.
Utilities are affordable overall in Ohio
When it comes to the cost of utilities in Ohio, residents typically enjoy lower rates than the national average, contributing to an overall affordable cost of living. Ohio’s diverse climate, with cold winters and hot, humid summers, can impact utility bills, especially for heating and air conditioning. Internet services are widely available and competitively priced, often ranging between $50 to $75 per month depending on speed and provider. While costs may fluctuate based on the size of the home and energy usage, Ohio’s utility expenses typically remain manageable, contributing to the state’s appeal as a budget-friendly place to live.
Utility bill comparisons: Ohio cities vs. nationwide average
| Monthly Energy Bill | Monthly Phone Bill | Comparison to National Avg. | |
| National Average | $203.40 | $194.11 | |
| Akron | $149.52 | $191.81 | -18% less |
| Cincinnati | $209.37 | $188.82 | +1% more |
| Cleveland | $174.43 | $189.12 | -10% less |
| Columbus | $212.19 | $188.37 | +1% more |
| Dayton | $232.91 | $188.37 | +8% more |
| Toledo | $214.01 | $189.09 | +2% more |
| Youngstown-Warren | $185.38 | $190.22 | -6% less |
Grocery costs in Ohio are on par with nationwide averages
Grocery costs in Ohio are closely aligned with national averages, with a slight edge in affordability. Ohioans typically spend about 4% less on groceries each month than the average U.S. household, which might not sound like much but can make a noticeable difference over time. Whether you’re picking up fresh produce at local markets or stocking up at big-box stores, the prices are generally comparable to what you’d find nationwide. This balance in grocery expenses is yet another factor that keeps the cost of living in Ohio reasonable, making everyday essentials accessible without stretching your budget too thin.
Transportation costs are reasonable, keeping the cost of living in Ohio affordable
Transportation costs in Ohio are fairly affordable, with gas prices averaging $2.85 per gallon—well below the national average of $3.09. Vehicle maintenance and registration are generally in line with national averages too, but Ohio’s mild climate can help keep car repairs on the lower end of the spectrum. Public transportation is available in major cities like Cleveland, Columbus, and Cincinnati, where bus routes are the primary mode of transit. However, outside of these urban centers, public transportation options can be limited, so owning a car is often essential. All in all, Ohio’s transportation costs are manageable, especially for those who spend most of their time in the driver’s seat.
Healthcare costs are typically on the lower end in Ohio
Healthcare costs in Ohio can vary depending on your specific needs, coverage, and where you live. The type of insurance you have, whether it’s through an employer or purchased privately, will play a big role in out-of-pocket costs. Additionally, the frequency of doctor visits or dental procedures can impact overall healthcare spending. However, for most residents, healthcare in Ohio tends to be more affordable than the national average, making it an appealing place to live from a cost-of-care standpoint.
When comparing dental and doctor visit costs, Ohio is generally cheaper. The national average for a dentist visit is $115.50, but in Akron, it’s slightly lower at $112.58, and in Columbus, it’s even less, at $94.01. For doctor visits, the national average is $140.46, while Akron residents pay around $118.91, and Columbus comes in at $117.17. These lower costs can ease the financial burden on Ohio residents, especially those needing regular care.
Taxes are manageable in Ohio
If you’re considering a move to Ohio, it’s helpful to understand how taxes might impact your overall cost of living. Ohio’s income tax is progressive, ranging from 2.75% to 3.5%, with additional local income taxes in many cities and municipalities. This can make a noticeable difference depending on where you choose to live. The state sales tax rate is 5.75%, but when you factor in local taxes, the combined rate averages around 7.24%, which will affect your day-to-day purchases. Property taxes are another key consideration for homeowners, with an effective rate of 1.3% on owner-occupied homes—higher than some neighboring states but still manageable. On the plus side, Ohio doesn’t have estate or inheritance taxes, which is a bonus for long-term financial planning. These factors collectively shape the tax burden and play a crucial role in Ohio’s overall affordability.
How much do I need to earn to live in Ohio?
To live comfortably in Ohio, it’s helpful to apply the 30% rule, which suggests that you should spend no more than 30% of your monthly income on housing. With the average rent in Ohio sitting at $1,160, you’d want to earn about $3,866 per month, or roughly $46,400 annually, to stay within that ideal range. However, where you live within the state can make a difference. For example, in Cleveland, a 1-bedroom apartment may cost around $1,525, meaning you’d need to earn closer to $5,083 per month or about $60,990 annually to keep your rent affordable. On the other hand, in Toledo, where rent for a 1-bedroom can be as low as $800, a monthly income of $2,667 or $32,000 per year would meet the 30% rule. So, the cost of housing in Ohio can vary significantly depending on the city, but with the right income, you can live comfortably in most areas of the state.
Methodology
Average 1-bedroom and 2-bedroom rent sourced from Rent. Median home sale price, state average monthly rent, national rent prices, and cost of living data sourced from Redfin.
Source: rent.com