What Is the Average Cost of Living in Ohio?

The cost of living represents the amount of money required to cover basic expenses such as housing, food, transportation, healthcare, and taxes. Understanding this financial benchmark is important for budgeting and financial planning. This overview examines the average cost of living in Ohio, providing insights into the typical expenses residents might encounter. While these figures offer a general perspective, actual costs can vary depending on individual lifestyle choices and specific locations within the state.

Understanding Ohio’s Major Living Expenses

Housing constitutes a significant portion of living expenses. The median home value in the state is approximately $243,907. For those considering renting, the average monthly rent across all property types is around $1,350. A one-bedroom apartment costs about $1,076 per month, while a two-bedroom unit averages $1,349 monthly. The median monthly home loan cost for homeowners is approximately $1,429.

Utility expenses are another regular cost for Ohio residents, averaging about $400 per month. This estimate includes a breakdown of monthly charges: electricity at $121, gas at $148, and cable and internet services costing around $120. Water bills add approximately $27 to monthly expenditures. These figures can fluctuate based on seasonal usage and specific service providers.

Food costs are a consistent expense, with an individual in Ohio spending an average of $342 per month on groceries. For a family of four, the estimated monthly grocery bill rises to about $1,369. Beyond groceries, residents also allocate funds for dining out, with an average annual expenditure of $2,410 for restaurant meals.

Households in Ohio allocate about 27% of their income to transportation. The average annual transportation expense for an individual can range from $9,911 to $16,605. For those who drive, the average price per gallon of regular gasoline is around $3.49. Public transportation options exist in major urban centers, though personal vehicles remain common for commuting across the state.

Healthcare is another cost of living expense. The average annual healthcare cost per person in Ohio is approximately $8,770. For health insurance premiums, a benchmark plan purchased through the marketplace costs an average of $435 per month. A family of four can expect to pay around $1,714 per month for health insurance. Out-of-pocket healthcare costs for employees average over $1,100 annually.

Beyond these primary categories, miscellaneous expenses contribute to the overall cost of living, including various taxes. Ohio operates a progressive state income tax system, with rates ranging from 0% to 3.5% for the 2024 tax year. Many local municipalities also impose their own income taxes, which can be as high as 3%. The statewide sales tax rate is 5.75%, but when combined with local sales taxes, the total rate can range from 5.75% to 8%. Property tax rates average an effective rate of 1.42% of the owner-occupied housing value.

Ohio’s Cost of Living in National Context

Ohio’s overall cost of living positions it as a more affordable state compared to the national average. The state’s cost of living index is approximately 6% to 11% lower than the national benchmark. This relative affordability contributes to Ohio being ranked among the more inexpensive states to reside in.

Housing costs in Ohio are notably below the national average, making it an attractive option for both renters and prospective homeowners. The median home price in Ohio, at approximately $243,907, is significantly lower than the national median home price, which was around $462,206 in May 2025. Similarly, the median rent in Ohio, averaging $1,444.10, is also less than the national median rent of $1,529.01.

Healthcare expenses in Ohio are also somewhat more affordable than national averages. The average health insurance premium in the state is lower than the national average for comparable plans. While transportation costs in Ohio are a considerable expense for residents, gas prices align with the national average.

Regional Differences Across Ohio

The average cost of living in Ohio can vary considerably based on the specific region within the state, reflecting a divergence between urban centers and more rural areas. Major metropolitan areas tend to have higher expenses, particularly for housing, due to increased demand and economic activity. For example, Columbus, the state capital, is the most expensive major city in Ohio, with higher housing costs and overall living expenses compared to the statewide average. The median home price in Columbus was about $290,000 in April 2024, and average rents are higher than the state average.

In contrast, other major cities and smaller towns often present more economical living options. Cleveland and Cincinnati, while significant urban areas, have lower housing costs than Columbus. Cleveland’s median home price was around $132,000 in April 2024, and its rental rates are also more modest. Cities such as Toledo and Dayton consistently rank among the more affordable places to live, offering lower median home values and rental prices.

Numerous smaller cities and rural communities across Ohio offer even more significant cost savings. Places like Youngstown, Niles, and Steubenville are recognized for their notably lower housing costs, with median home prices and average rents substantially below the statewide average. For instance, Youngstown’s median home price is around 75% lower than the state average, and its average rent is about 55% lower. These regional differences are influenced by factors such as the local job market, the availability of services, and the density of the population.