Ohio is always an amazing place to visit, but what about those who are considering moving there?
Ohio is a state that offers many vibrant cities, scenery, and landscapes.
If Ohio sounds like a place you can see yourself living, consider the average home sale price of $264,900.
But if this number doesn’t quite fit into your budget, there’s no need to worry!
This guide will provide you with a list of some of the most affordable places to live in Ohio.
14 of the Cheapest Places to Live in Ohio
1. Springfield
Springfield is first on the list for being one of the cheapest places to live in Ohio.
If you’re wondering about the average home price in Springfield, it is $112,000.
The average rent paid for a one-bedroom is just $740.
But what about the closest major town?
Dayton is located just 30 miles away.
Nearly 58,700 people live in Springfield.
Springfield offers a lot of amazing things to do.
For example, residents can head on over to the Hartman Rock Garden for a self-guided tour.
Or, residents who love art can visit the Springfield Museum of Art.
2. Youngstown
Youngstown is next on the list for being one of the most affordable places to live in Ohio.
The average sale price for homes in Youngstown is $114,000.
Do you prefer to rent instead?
You can easily take advantage of Youngstown’s cheap rental prices.
The average rent paid for a one-bedroom is $887.
The nearest metro area is Akron, located just 50 miles away.
Youngstown has just about 60,100 people living there.
There is also a lot to explore, from hiking trails to museums such as the Butler Institute of American Art.
The downtown area also has a lot to offer residents.
3. Lorain
Lorain is known for having affordable housing, with the median sale price of a home being just $124,000.
It’s located just 30 miles from Cleveland, for those wanting to stay close to a major metro area.
Residents living in Lorain take an average of $40,486 home each year.
Overall, housing prices in Lorain are nearly $140,000 less than the average cost of a home in the state.
Are you interested in knowing what Lorain has to offer in terms of entertainment?
If you enjoy the outdoors, the Mile Long Pier, Lakeview Beach, and Lorain Harbor Lighthouse are ideal options.
4. Akron
Akron is appealing to those looking for a cheap place to live in Ohio.
The median home price in Akron is $125,975, while the average rent paid for a one-bedroom is $782.
Cleveland is located 40 miles away from Akron if you’re looking for more amenities.
Akron is just a little bit more expensive than Lorain and has nearly 190,500 residents living there.
Feel free to explore destinations including the Tudor Revival home, the Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens, and the Goodyear Heights Metro Park.
5. Cleveland
Cleveland is a popular yet affordable place to live in Ohio.
The average cost of a home in Cleveland is $125,000.
On average, renters pay $1,466 for a one-bedroom apartment.
Cleveland is home to 372,600 people, making this another excellent option to add to your list.
But what about amenities?
Cleveland has a lot to offer residents living here.
For example, you can check out the West Side Market, the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, and even Playhouse Square.
You’ll also enjoy some breathtaking views of Lake Erie if you visit the Cleveland Lakefront Nature Preserve.
6. Canton
Canton is another well-known city in Ohio and should also be added to your list.
The median home price in Canton is $125,000, while the average rent paid for a one-bedroom is $775.
It’s located just 25 miles from Akron.
Canton is an amazing town to consider because the average home sale price is nearly $100,000 below the state’s average.
Nearly 70,900 people call Canton home.
But besides affordability, Canton has plenty to offer, including the McKinley Presidential Library & Museum and Stadium Park.
Downtown Canton also offers a lot to do and see.
7. Toledo
Next on the list of the most affordable places to live in Ohio is Toledo.
Whether you’re looking to buy or rent a home, Toledo has some of the most affordable sale prices.
The median home sale price in Toledo is $131,750, while the average rent for a one-bedroom is $774.
Detroit is located just 60 miles away if you’re looking to enhance your experience.
Nearly 270,990 people live in Toledo, so it’s perfect for those looking for a midsize town.
Toledo offers some amazing museums, restaurants, parks, and more.
Feel free to check out the National Museum of the Great Lakes or the Toledo Botanical Garden.
8. Dayton
Dayton also made the list as one of the most affordable places to live in Ohio.
The average rent for one bedroom is $842, while the median home cost is $138,000.
Cincinnati is located 55 miles away, which is the closest major metro town.
Dayton is a well-known city and has roughly 137,600 people living there.
But what else does Dayton have to offer besides affordability?
Dayton also has various museums, including the National Museum of the US Air Force and the Dayton Art Institute.
Feel free to embark on a journey to Eastwood Metro Park for some outdoor fun.
9. Elyria
Elyria is probably not a town you’re too familiar with if you aren’t from Ohio.
However, it’s ranked as one of the most affordable towns in Ohio, and for very good reason.
The average rent paid in Elyria for a one-bedroom apartment is just $590, and the median home sale price is $143,350.
Nearly 52,700 people live in Elyria.
There’s a lot to do in Elyria, including museums such as the Hickories Museum and the East Falls Riverwalk.
Downtown Elyria also offers plenty of things to do.
10. Middletown
Middletown has an average median home price of $150,000, making it yet another affordable town to live in.
The average rent paid for a one-bedroom is $767.
The closest metro area is Cincinnati, located only 38 miles away.
Middletown is a charming town with just 50,900 people living there.
So what is there to do in Middletown, you ask?
There’s a variety of activities you can do, including an amazing downtown area full of restaurants and shops.
11. Parma
Parma has a median home sale price of $235,250.
It’s an amazing town with a lot to offer the 81,000 residents currently living here.
The average rent paid for a one-bedroom is $925.
Cleveland is just 10 miles away from Parma, for those interested in a lot more adventure.
Parma is perfect for those who can do without the hustle and bustle of a bigger city.
The town has many amazing local restaurants.
Residents can also enjoy West Creek Reservation for some outdoor fun.
12. Cuyahoga Falls
Cuyahoga Falls is another affordable place in Ohio to consider living.
The median home sale price is $209,500, while the average rent paid for a one-bedroom is $877.
It’s located only five miles from Akron.
Whether you’re looking to buy or rent, you are sure to find something within your budget.
Cuyahoga Falls has a lot to do, including many restaurants and shops to explore.
You can also check out the riverfront area and the Riding Run Conservation Area.
13. Hamilton
Hamilton also tops the list as one of the most affordable places to live in Ohio.
The average home price is $235,250, while the average rent for a one-bedroom apartment is $902.
Hamilton has a population of 63,400.
There are many reasons why you should consider moving to Hamilton.
Besides being one of the most affordable towns, there’s a lot to do.
Residents can explore the Pyramid Hill Sculpture Park & Museum and the Riverside Natural Area.
Downtown Hamilton is also known to be very appealing.
14. Kettering
Last on the list is Kettering. Kettering has a median home sale price of $242,550 and an average rent of $800.
Dayton is located just six miles away if you’re looking for easy access to a major metro area.
Kettering is home to about 57,900 residents.
Kettering also offers plenty of activities, especially if you enjoy the outdoors.
Live music is frequently played at Fraze Pavilion.
There are also several golf courses located within the town.
Ohio Safety Overview
READ THE FULL REPORT: Ohio Safety Review
Safety Index:
- OVERALL RISK: LOW
- TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK: LOW
- PICKPOCKETS RISK: LOW
- NATURAL DISASTERS RISK: MEDIUM
- MUGGING RISK: LOW
- TERRORISM RISK: LOW
- SCAMS RISK: LOW
- WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK: LOW
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cost of living in Ohio?
Overall, the cost of living in Ohio is 8% below the national average.
Fascinating enough, housing is 22% below the national average, and utilities are 3% lower.
Necessities are merely 5% below the national average, making the state of Ohio one of the best places to live in terms of affordability.
Are there any affordable housing programs available in Ohio?
There are various programs in Ohio, all of which are funded by the government.
These programs are in place to help those in need of affordable housing in Ohio.
A couple of those programs are the Federal Home Investment Partnership Program and the Ohio Housing Trust Fund.
These programs help residents who have incomes that are below 50 percent of the area’s median income.
What are some of the most affordable neighborhoods in Ohio?
Above, you’ll find some of the most affordable towns in Ohio.
But what about neighborhoods?
Here is a list of some of the most affordable neighborhoods in Ohio:
- North Linden
- Ohio City
- Firestone Park
- North Hill
- Goodyear Heights
- Tremont
- Kenmore
- East Toledo
