Cheapest Places to Live in Ohio

Ohio, with its diverse landscapes, vibrant cities, and rich cultural heritage, offers a variety of living experiences. Landmarks such as the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, Cedar Point amusement park, and the Cincinnati Zoo highlight the state's attractions. The state's economy is robust and diverse, driven by sectors such as manufacturing, healthcare, and technology. Ohio's tax structure includes moderate income and property taxes, which contribute to its overall affordability. Despite recent inflation and rising food costs, Ohio remains one of the more affordable states in the Midwest, especially in its smaller towns and rural areas. The combination of a diverse economy and manageable living costs makes Ohio an attractive place for those seeking affordability and quality of life.

Affordable living in Ohio can often be found in smaller towns and suburban areas where housing costs and everyday expenses are lower. These regions provide a more manageable cost of living, which is essential for maintaining financial stability. Affordability is a crucial factor in livability, as it allows residents to enjoy a comfortable standard of living without undue financial strain. Factors contributing to the cheapest places to live in Ohio include lower housing demand in less populated areas, supportive local economic policies, and efficient public services. Utilizing C2ER's cost of living data helps to identify these affordable regions, ensuring that potential residents can make informed decisions. In a state known for its economic opportunities and cultural diversity, finding affordable living options enhances the overall living experience.

East Cleveland Population: 17,047 13% cheaper than Ohio average

Med. Home Value: $57,800 Med. Rent: $644 Med. Household Inc.: $22,426

With a cost of living index that is 13% cheaper than the state average, East Cleveland is the cheapest place to live in Ohio. This area offers residents a remarkable blend of relatively low housing costs, budget-friendly grocery prices, affordable utilities, and economical health care services, making it an attractive destination for those seeking to stretch their dollars further. Whether you're a young professional, a growing family, or someone looking to enjoy a more relaxed pace of life, East Cleveland provides an inviting and cost-effective environment to call home.

Warren Population: 38,986 12% cheaper than Ohio average

Med. Home Value: $66,100 Med. Rent: $658 Med. Household Inc.: $27,108

The second most affordable city in Ohio is Warren and stands out for its cost-effective lifestyle. With an overall cost of living that is 12% cheaper than the Ohio average, overall goods and services, housing, utilities, transportation and health care costs fall within a reasonable range. Median household income levels are steady and come in at , which helps to increase the purchasing power of the local residents.

Wellston Population: 5,522 12% cheaper than Ohio average

Med. Home Value: $91,900 Med. Rent: $463 Med. Household Inc.: $45,082

Wellston lands in the #3 spot for the cheapest cities to live in Ohio, with a cost of living that is 12% cheaper than the state average. With home prices averaging and rental rates coming in around , it helps that household income levels average about , which assists with paying the mortgage or your monthly rent. Its robust public school system and accessible health care further enhance its appeal, making it a great place to settle down. The strong community spirit and ample recreational opportunities add to its charm.

Mansfield Population: 46,450 11% cheaper than Ohio average

Med. Home Value: $80,300 Med. Rent: $640 Med. Household Inc.: $36,318

The cost of everyday grocery items, goods & services and of course housing, can have a significant impact on the overall cost of living in any area. Mansfield offers a picturesque and affordable living environment, with a cost of living that is 11% cheaper than the state average. Everyday items like ground beef , eggs , coffee and pizza are all fairly reasonable compared to most other cities, which helps reduce those grocery bills. Home prices are also fairly affordable (compared to the state average), coming in at around .

Greenville Population: 12,743 11% cheaper than Ohio average

Med. Home Value: $99,700 Med. Rent: $618 Med. Household Inc.: $40,347

For those wanting to live well on a budget, Greenville is ideal, with a cost of living that is 11% cheaper than the state average. Reasonable housing prices (compared to the Ohio average) of and rental prices of are paired with economical goods and services and a range of free or low-cost recreational activities. The city's proactive economic development initiatives also ensure a steady stream of job opportunities, making it a smart choice for those prioritizing financial ease.

Portsmouth Population: 20,094 11% cheaper than Ohio average

Med. Home Value: $75,900 Med. Rent: $579 Med. Household Inc.: $31,117

Portsmouth comes in at #6 on our list of the cheapest cities in Ohio and is a haven for those seeking affordability without sacrificing convenience. The city is known for its discount shopping centers and budget-friendly dining options and has a cost of living that is 11% cheaper than Ohio. The city's local markets provide fresh produce and other groceries at reduced prices, while parks and community centers offer free entertainment and leisure. This city is perfect for enjoying a high quality of life at a low cost.

Coshocton Population: 10,993 11% cheaper than Ohio average

Med. Home Value: $83,800 Med. Rent: $634 Med. Household Inc.: $46,034

With its cost-effective lifestyle, Coshocton is an attractive destination for those looking to live affordably. The city boasts suitable housing costs, affordable healthcare, and a variety of budget-friendly dining options. The community is welcoming and vibrant, providing residents with a rich social life at a fraction of the cost. Median income levels come in at , which provides financial stability, purchasing power and increases the quality of life in the city.

Youngstown Population: 64,152 11% cheaper than Ohio average

Med. Home Value: $46,900 Med. Rent: $638 Med. Household Inc.: $30,129

A lower cost of living allows individuals to manage their expenses more effectively, reducing the risk of financial stress and debt. When essential costs such as housing, food, transportation, and healthcare are more affordable, people can achieve greater financial stability and resilience. Youngstown fits that mold and has a cost of living that is 11% cheaper than Ohio.

Zanesville Population: 25,246 11% cheaper than Ohio average

Med. Home Value: $81,700 Med. Rent: $706 Med. Household Inc.: $33,158

Lower living costs can lead to a higher quality of life by making it easier for people to afford comfortable housing, nutritious food, and access to healthcare. It can also provide opportunities for better education, recreational activities, and community engagement, contributing to overall well-being. Zanesville is one of the most affordable cities in Ohio, and has a cost of living that is 11% cheaper than the state average.

Canton Population: 70,863 10% cheaper than Ohio average

Med. Home Value: $73,300 Med. Rent: $705 Med. Household Inc.: $32,735

With a cost of living that is 10% cheaper than Ohio, Canton comes in at #10 on our list of the cheapest places to live in Ohio. Financial stress is a significant factor affecting mental and physical health. By lowering the cost of living, individuals can experience reduced anxiety related to meeting monthly expenses, thereby improving overall health and well-being. The ability to afford basic necessities without constant worry contributes to a more balanced and fulfilling life.

Full list of the cheapest places in Ohio

Rank	Location	Population	COL Index	Med. Home Value	Med. Household Inc.
1	East Cleveland	17,047	80	$57,800	$22,426
2	Warren	38,986	81	$66,100	$27,108
3	Wellston	5,522	81	$91,900	$45,082
4	Mansfield	46,450	81	$80,300	$36,318
5	Greenville	12,743	82	$99,700	$40,347
6	Portsmouth	20,094	82	$75,900	$31,117
7	Coshocton	10,993	82	$83,800	$46,034
8	Youngstown	64,152	82	$46,900	$30,129
9	Zanesville	25,246	82	$81,700	$33,158
10	Canton	70,863	82	$73,300	$32,735
11	Eaton	8,154	82	$103,100	$49,375
12	Girard	9,293	83	$80,700	$44,315
13	Cleveland	383,331	83	$73,400	$31,838
14	Niles	18,429	84	$85,700	$45,400
15	Alliance	21,671	84	$85,200	$36,883
16	East Liverpool	10,632	84	$61,900	$32,149
17	Cambridge	10,398	84	$96,800	$35,124
18	Ironton	10,749	84	$91,700	$35,915
19	Sandusky	24,651	84	$85,300	$41,082
20	Fostoria	13,193	84	$66,000	$42,131
21	Campbell	7,847	84	$64,200	$31,017
22	Akron	197,375	84	$83,500	$40,281
23	Lorain	63,832	84	$90,700	$40,486
24	Barberton	26,030	85	$88,400	$41,119
25	Euclid	46,861	85	$84,500	$40,342
26	Logan	6,677	85	$110,400	$41,373
27	Garfield Heights	27,673	85	$75,400	$43,901
28	Dayton	140,444	85	$69,400	$34,457
29	Galion	10,003	85	$75,400	$36,161
30	Jackson	6,233	85	$98,900	$41,473
31	Ashtabula	18,067	85	$71,500	$33,918
32	Maple Heights	22,178	85	$69,900	$43,036
33	Warrensville Heights	13,178	85	$87,600	$39,919
34	Uhrichsville	5,332	85	$68,500	$40,581
35	Whitehall	18,944	86	$97,100	$42,951
36	Washington Court House	14,155	86	$110,900	$43,758
37	Austintown	29,467	86	$101,900	$45,923
38	Toronto	5,357	86	$86,200	$41,971
39	Trotwood	24,410	86	$74,200	$39,110
40	Struthers	10,177	86	$71,700	$39,298
41	Bedford	12,555	86	$91,200	$45,945
42	Martins Ferry	6,589	86	$81,800	$42,017
43	Ravenna	11,436	86	$99,100	$38,011
44	Marion	36,011	86	$77,800	$40,223
45	Springfield	58,957	86	$80,600	$39,344
46	Massillon	32,484	86	$107,400	$48,268
47	Bryan	8,243	86	$98,400	$43,083
48	Bucyrus	11,808	86	$87,800	$43,891
49	Ashland	20,304	87	$109,100	$48,663
50	Elyria	53,844	87	$107,600	$43,816

Methodology

To formulate the list of the cheapest places to live in Ohio, AreaVibes utilized comprehensive data from the Council for Community and Economic Research (C2ER) cost of living index. The report is released annually and offers a detailed comparison of living expenses across various urban areas. The data is meticulously gathered by over 300 independent researchers, ensuring a high level of accuracy and reliability. The C2ER index encompasses more than 60 goods and services, categorized into six essential areas that significantly impact the cost of living. These categories and their respective weightings in the index are as follows: goods and services (33%), groceries (13%), health care (5%), housing (30%), transportation (9%), and utilities (10%).

Map of Cost of Living by State

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The map above is a great way to help you discover the most affordable states across the U.S. By highlighting states with the lowest cost of living, this map provides an in-depth look at where you can get the most value for your money. By visually representing this data, the map allows users to easily compare different regions and make informed decisions about potential relocations or investments. Additionally, it provides valuable insights into the economic conditions and lifestyle factors that influence these cost of living statistics. Whether you're planning a move, considering a new job, or simply curious about the economic landscape, this map is a useful resource for understanding and navigating the financial implications of living in different states.