Want Ohio’s blend of city convenience and small-town charm without Cleveland prices? You don’t have to give up on the dream. You can afford a home in the Buckeye State if you know where to look.
Your perfect home could be a family-friendly house in Youngstown or a starter home in Warren, one of Ohio’s strongest automotive manufacturing hub. If you’re retiring, consider homes for sale in Toledo to enjoy affordable waterfront living along Lake Erie.
After reviewing hundreds of cities, we’ve ranked the 10 most affordable places to live in Ohio to help you find a home that fits your budget.
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Key Takeaways
- Steubenville is the most affordable city: Youngstown’s cost of living is 10% lower than the state average. With a median home price of $97,500, it is the cheapest place to live in Florida.
- Youngstown is the best city for young professionals: Ranked as the #2 hottest job market in the country, Youngstown is a prime spot to build a career.
- For families, Akorn is a great choice: With top-notch schools, safe neighborhoods, and low child-rearing costs, Palatka is an ideal place to raise a family on a budget.
- Retirees should consider Toledo: Retirees can enjoy a relaxed coastal lifestyle, with homes typically ranging from $325,000 to $345,000.
- Don’t forget Ohio’s “local income tax”: Ohio has an additional municipal income tax of 1% to 2.5% that you need to look out for.
Cheapest Places to Live in Ohio in 2026
| City | Median Home Value | Median House Rent | Cost of Living Compared to State Average | Affordability Score (out of 10) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Steubenville | $97,500 | $746 | 10% ⬇️ | 8.2 |
| 2. Niles | $136,000 | $877 | 12% ⬇️ | 7.8 |
| 3. Mansfield | $159,000 | $873 | 10% ⬇️ | 7.4 |
| 4. Ashtabula | $183,590 | $663 | 3% ⬇️ | 7.4 |
| 5. Youngstown | $113,475 | $1,015 | 1% ⬇️ | 7.2 |
| 6. Canton | $147,200 | $997 | 6% ⬇️ | 7.2 |
| 7. Warren | $152,000 | $917 | 2% ⬇️ | 7.2 |
| 8. Toledo | $148,000 | $971 | 6% ⬆️ | 6.9 |
| 9. Akron | $145,000 | $1,107 | 7% ⬇️ | 6.9 |
| 10. Sandusky | $175,000 | $1,226 | 2% ⬆️ | 5.9 |
How We Ranked the Most Affordable Places to Live in Ohio
To identify the cheap places to live in Ohio, we carried out an in-depth analysis using multiple reliable data sources and indicators of affordability.
Data Sources:
- Median Home Prices: We used Houzeo’s Ohio Housing Market report and double-checked the numbers with the data from Ohio Housing Finance Agency (OHFA).
- Median Rent: We got the rent data from C2ER, which publishes the national Cost of Living Index. This was verified every few months to make sure it’s accurate.
- Overall Cost of Living: We covered 6 big spending categories— housing, groceries, utilities, transportation, healthcare, and miscellaneous goods— from C2ER and Houzeo’s Cost of Living in Ohio Calculator. We then compared everything to the U.S. average of 100.
We studied housing data from 2022 to 2025 to identify cities that remained affordable over time, not just during short dips in prices. Furthermore, each city’s data was also cross-checked with HUD and state economic reports.
All our information is up to date as of 2025, ensuring you receive the most current insights.
Affordability Scoring:
We built a simple scoring system that focuses on what really matters:
- Median Home Price (40%)
- Median Rent (35%)
- Cost of Living (25%)
This way, we can clearly show which Ohio cities give you the best value for your money. You can also check out our score breakdown to see how each city was ranked.
Image credits: All blog images are sourced from Freepik.
10 Most Affordable Places to Live in Ohio
Steubenville offers cost-effective public transportation and quick access to major highways and the Ohio River, giving residents easy regional mobility. With nearby parks, riverfront trails, and affordable homes for sale in Steubenville, the city delivers an outdoors-focused lifestyle without high living expenses.
- LaBelle: The neighborhood features a residential suburban vibe with early 20th-century homes and sports facilities at Belleview Park. It also offers proximity to highly rated schools like McKinley STEM Academy and Harding Middle School, plus local dining options.
- Downtown Steubenville: It has an urban historic vibe centered around Fort Steuben Park and the Nutcracker Village festival. Residents value access to Beatty Park with walking trails and the Martin Luther King Jr. Recreation Center, near Steubenville High School.
- Brady Estates: This neighborhood offers a quiet residential neighborhood noted for safety and family-oriented homes. It is located near Steubenville City School District schools and local parks like the Belleview Park.
- Job Market: From August 2024 to 2025, Ohio nonagricultural employment rose by 76,800 jobs. Key industries in Steubenville include healthcare, manufacturing, and education. Major employers are Trinity Health System, Mancan, and Franciscan University of Steubenville.
- Recreation: Popular spots include the Steubenville Heritage Trail for daily walking, the Steubenville Marina for boating, and Jefferson Lake State Park for fishing and hiking. Friendship Racing Park adds motorsports, while Seven Creeks Spring provides mini-golf and natural spring views for relaxed recreation.
- Higher Crime Rates: Steubenville’s violent crime rate stands at 5.5 per 1,000 residents, above the national average of 4.
- Limited Job Diversity: The economy relies heavily on healthcare and manufacturing. unemployment in the Steubenville-Weirton MSA was 5.2% in September 2025, higher than Ohio’s 4.1% average.
- Fewer Amenities: Small population of 18,000 results in limited shopping, dining, and entertainment options compared to larger cities.
The area offers a quiet, small-town lifestyle with accessible parks like the Niles Greenway Trail System for outdoor recreation. Homes for sale in Niles provide budget-friendly entry points and overall affordability in Ohio’s Mahoning Valley.
- North Heights: It is a quiet suburban neighborhood with single-family homes near Niles Wellness Center and Niles Greenway Trail. Appeals to families due to proximity to Niles McKinley High School and Niles Intermediate School.
- Belle Vista: It is a residential area featuring established homes and community events like the Bella Vista Fear Trail during Halloween. Residents value access to Waddell Park’s splash pad and playground, plus Niles Primary School nearby.
- Kirkmere: The neighborhood offers a calm, family-oriented vibe bordered by green spaces including parts of Mill Creek Park. Attracts residents with nearness to Niles Middle School and recreational spots like Stevens Park athletic facilities.
- Job Market: Key industries in Niles include manufacturing, healthcare, and retail. Major employers are Postle Aluminum Company in aluminum extrusions and various firms in the Niles Industrial Park.
- Recreation: Veterans Park and Stevens Park anchor local gatherings and events, including the annual Harry Stevens Hot Dog Day honoring the hot-dog inventor. Together, they showcase Niles’ focus on community activities and well-kept sports facilities such as lighted tennis and pickleball courts.
- High Crime Rates: Niles has an overall crime rate estimated around 29–45% higher than the national average, with both property and violent crime contributing to this gap, which may concern safety-focused residents.
- Limited Job Market Diversity: The job market has shrunk by about 7% over the past year, indicating slower growth and less diverse employment options than larger metros.
- Limited Big-city Amenities: With a population under 20,000 and a modest median household income, Niles offers fewer cultural venues, specialty shops, and nightlife options than larger nearby cities.
Mansfield offers an appealing blend of affordability and convenience, making it one of the cheapest places to live in the region. The city features accessible parks, a revitalized downtown, and efficient transport links to nearby hubs. With its low cost of living and steady housing market, homes for sale in Mansfield provide practical options for families and professionals alike.
- The Boulevards Historic District: It is a historic urban neighborhood defined by tree-lined avenues like Brinkerhoff and Parkwood Boulevards. It also offers proximity to Mansfield Senior High School and nearby parks such as South Park.
- Raemelton Farm Historic District: A rural-residential historic district with Greek Revival and Colonial Revival homes on 65 acres bounded by Marion Avenue and Trimble Road. Buyers value access to nearby John Sherman Elementary School and the Raemelton Therapeutic Equestrian Center.
- West End: It is a quiet residential area bordered by Marion Avenue, Park Avenue West, South Main Street, and Glessner Avenue. It is located near the Malabar Intermediate School and the Richland County Fairgrounds for annual events.
- Job Market: Mansfield’s economy centers on advanced manufacturing, like metal fabrication, automotive components, and plastics production, alongside healthcare and logistics. Major employers include Avita Health System, OhioHealth, and manufacturing firms supporting OEM supply chains.
- Recreation: Popular spots include the Ohio State Reformatory, a historic prison featured in films, and Snow Trails, a ski resort with trails for winter sports. The B&O Bike Trail offers paved paths for cycling, while Richland Carrousel Park houses a hand-carved merry-go-round and hosts community events.
- High Crime Rates: Mansfield records a high crime rate of 34.35 per 1,000 residents, exceeding 96% of Ohio communities
- Limited Job Diversity: The job market relies heavily on manufacturing, healthcare, and logistics, limiting options in tech or professional services; unemployment was 5.6% in August 2025, above state averages.
- Limited Amenities and Transport: Limited shopping and entertainment require car travel outside the small downtown, with public transport sparse.
Ashtabula is one of the most affordable cities to live in, offering a relaxed lakeside lifestyle along the shores of Lake Erie. Its mix of scenic parks, accessible beaches, and convenient transport options make daily life easy and enjoyable.
- Ashtabula Harbor: It’s a coastal urban neighborhood with marinas, historic bridges, and waterfront access along Lake Erie. It offers proximity to Walnut Beach Park and events like the Wine & Walleye Festival and Blessing of the Fleet as well.
- Downtown Ashtabula: A dense urban neighborhood featuring cultural sites amid ongoing development near the Ashtabula River. You can easily access Ashtabula Arts Center, Maritime Museum, and Hubbard House Underground Railroad Museum.
- North Kingsville: A quiet suburban village with family homes, cottages, and ranch-style residences in a peaceful setting. The neighborhood offers easy access to local parks, nature trails, and Ashtabula Area City Schools district.
- Job Market: The local economy centers on manufacturing, healthcare, and logistics tied to the port. Major employers include Ashtabula County Medical Center, Chromaflo Technologies, Molded Fiber Glass Companies, INEOS, and Mohawk Industries.
- Recreation: Local lifestyle revolves around outdoor spots like Nappi Park with its baseball field and playground, Clifford Kadon Presidential Park, and Lake Shore Park. Landmarks include the Smolen-Gulf Bridge and Benetka Road Covered Bridge.
- High Poverty Rates: 26.0% of children live below the poverty level, compared to Ohio’s 18.0% average, contributing to substance use challenges.
- Natural Disaster Risk: 10.2% of properties face flood risk this year, rising to 10.6% in 30 years, due to Lake Erie location and Ashtabula River.
- Limited Amenities: Ashtabula offers few entertainment options beyond basics like Walmart and fast food, with residents often traveling to Cleveland for shopping, dining, or cultural activities.
The city combines accessible public transport, proximity to scenic parks and lakes, and a revitalized downtown scene. With a range of homes for sale in Youngstown, residents enjoy comfortable living and convenient access to major urban centers.
- Wick Park: A historic urban neighborhood with Victorian homes and tree-lined streets surrounding Wick Park. It appeals buyers due to walking proximity to Youngstown State University and downtown, plus jazz events in the Park summer.
- Brownlee Woods: This is a suburban residential area featuring post-war Cape Cod homes and quiet tree-lined streets. It provides access to Mill Creek Park trails and nearby Lynn Park renovations.
- Idora: It is a Southwest residential neighborhood adjacent to Mill Creek Park and Lake Cohasset. It offers convenient access to schools like Kirkmere Elementary, Chaney Middle, and Chaney High, all within two miles.
- Job Market: The local economy depends on manufacturing, healthcare, trade, and transportation. Major employers include Youngstown State University, Mercy Health (Bon Secours Mercy Health), and Vallourec Star Steel for tubular products.
- Recreation: The Fellows Riverside Gardens offers 14 acres of formal gardens and trails with lake views in Mill Creek MetroParks. Lanterman’s Mill, a historic 1840s gristmill, provides educational tours. Boardman Park features walking paths, ponds, and community events like summer concerts.
- High Crime Rates: Youngstown’s total crime rate reaches 3,441 per 100,000 residents, with violent crime at 688 per 100,000.
- Job Market Challenges: Unemployment rate in the Youngstown area stands at 7.5% as of recent data, above state and national averages, with forecasts predicting a 3.46% employment decline over the next six months.
- Natural Disaster Risks: Moderate flood risk affects the area due to flash flooding from pluvial events and inadequate infrastructure.
Canton offers an affordable cost of living with easy access to major highways, scenic parks, and nearby lakes that enhance outdoor recreation. The city combines small-town charm with practical urban amenities, making it appealing for families and retirees alike.
- Historic Ridgewood: It has a residential vibe with preserved early 20th-century Revival-style homes along tree-lined streets. It has proximity to Canton Local Schools, including Worley Elementary, and annual events like the Artists’ Showcase and Sale.
- Avondale: This neighborhood maintains a quiet suburban atmosphere near parks such as Avondale Arboretum and Arboretum-Spiker Park with disc golf. It appeals to families due to Avondale Elementary School in the Plain Local School District and access to local amenities.
- Harter Heights: This area offers a mostly residential setting with nearby green spaces like Monument Park and Lawrence Playground. Residents benefit from Harter Elementary School for pre-K through grade 2 and Clarendon Intermediate School for grades 4-6 in the Canton City School District.
- Job Market: The Canton-Massillon MSA reported total nonfarm employment at 175,200 in August 2025. Key industries include manufacturing, healthcare, retail trade, and construction. Major employers are TimkenSteel, Aultman Hospital, and Mercy Medical Center.
- Recreation: Popular spots include the Pro Football Hall of Fame for sports history, McKinley Presidential Library & Museum, and Canton Centennial Plaza downtown. Parks feature Exploration Gateway at Sippo Lake Park with trails, Petros Lake Park for fishing, and Stadium Park.
- Natural Disaster Risk: Stark County faces low overall natural disaster risk (25% score), though 16.9% of Canton properties risk flooding over 30 years.
- School Quality Variability: Public schools receive a C+ rating overall, with poorer performance in lower-income areas compared to well-off suburbs.
- Limited Entertainment: Residents note a lack of diverse entertainment and cultural activities
The city features easy access to parks, Lake St. Clair’s beaches, and reliable public transport. With a balanced mix of suburban comfort and urban accessibility, homes for sale in Warren appeal to those seeking value and livability.
- Fitzgerald: It is a quiet suburban neighborhood with a strong family-oriented vibe. Appeals to families due to proximity to Mound Park Upper Elementary School and Shaw Park for recreation.
- Warren Woods: This is a residential area featuring tree-lined streets and community events. It attracts families with Warren Woods Tower High School nearby and Warren Woods Park offering walkable paths and playgrounds.
- Northeast Warren: An upscale suburban enclave with well-maintained properties and green spaces. Draws professionals and families close to Warren Consolidated Schools and Veterans Memorial Park.
- Job Market: Warren’s economy centers on manufacturing and automotive sectors. Major employers are General Motors Technological Center, Android Industries, and Art Van Furniture headquarters.
- Recreation: Residents enjoy the Warren Community Centre Indoor Waterpark for year-round swimming and City Square Fountain as a central landmark hosting the annual Birthday Bash festival in August.
- Job Diversity: Employment heavily relies on manufacturing and automotive sectors like General Motors, limiting options in tech, finance, or creative fields.
- Flood Risk: About 40% of buildings face significant flooding risk from precipitation and riverine sources, with a 25% chance of 8-inch floods over 30 years in affected areas.
- Limited Amenities: Dining choices are sparse beyond chains like Olive Garden and Pizza Hut, lacking diverse or upscale options.
Toledo’s lifestyle appeals through extensive Metroparks Toledo system, spanning over 12,000 acres with trails. the Maumee River Water Trail for kayaking, and access to Lake Erie for outdoor activities like hiking and fishing, without high urban prices.
- Old Orchard: It is a tree-lined residential area with an older suburban feel, characterized by brick homes near the University of Toledo and the Village of Ottawa Hills. It is also close to Ottawa Park with its golf course and trails.
- Point Place: It is a coastal neighborhood at bordered by the Maumee River and western Lake Erie. Buyers are drawn by boating and fishing access, local events with parades and fireworks, and nearby schools such as Edgewater Elementary.
- Warehouse District: This is an urban downtown neighborhood around Fifth Third Field and Hensville. It offers walkable access to Mud Hens baseball games, Hensville Park concerts, the Downtown Outdoor Refreshment Area (DORA).
- Job Market: Toledo’s economy is anchored by advanced manufacturing, automotive, healthcare, and logistics. Major employers are ProMedica, Mercy Health, General Motors’ Toledo Powertrain, Jeep’s Toledo Assembly Complex, the University of Toledo, and Whirlpool
- Recreation: Beyond the Metroparks system, residents frequently visit the Toledo Zoo & Aquarium, the Toledo Museum of Art and its Glass Pavilion. Local lifestyle also includes events and sports at the Huntington Center (home of the Toledo Walleye hockey team) and seasonal festivals at the Toledo Zoo and downtown riverfront.
- Higher Crime Rates: Warren’s violent crime rate reaches 8.5 incidents per 1,000 residents, with property crime at 30 incidents per 1,000.
- Job Market Volatility: Manufacturing and transportation-related jobs account for more than 20% of local employment, increasing exposure to auto and industrial downturns.
- Limited Amenities and Income: Median household income in the city of Toledo is about 20–25% below the U.S. median. This limits local tax revenue and constrains how quickly infrastructure and public amenities can be upgraded.
Akron offers easy access to parks, cultural amenities, and nearby Lake Erie’s beaches, creating a balanced urban lifestyle. Those exploring homes for sale in Akron will find affordable options without sacrificing convenience or community comfort.
- Goodyear Heights: It is a residential suburban neighborhood with tree-lined streets and a family-oriented atmosphere. Perfect for families due to Goodyear Heights Metro Park for hiking and fishing, plus proximity to strong local schools.
- Highland Square: It is a trendy urban area near downtown with artsy cafes, boutiques, and live music venues. Residents value its walkability to Akron Zoo, BARC Dog Park, and events like PorchROKR festival.
- Firestone Park: A historic residential community with a charming, tree-lined feel centered around its namesake park. Attracts families with Wilbeth Arlington Park, Firestone Metro Park trails, and annual Akron Maple Fest at the community center.
- Job Market: Akron’s key industries include manufacturing, healthcare, and education. Major employers are Summa Health, Cleveland Clinic Akron General, University of Akron, and Goodyear Tire & Rubber. Total nonfarm employment stood at 342,100 in August 2025
- Recreation: Popular spots include Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens, a 70-acre historic estate with public events, and F.A. Seiberling Nature Realm, offering 104 acres of trails, ponds, and programs. The Lock 3 Park hosts concerts and the Heart of Akron Festival.
- Limited Public Transit: Public transportation remains limited, with a transit score of 30, often requiring car ownership and contributing to traffic issues in denser areas.
- High Poverty Levels: Akron’s poverty rate is 22.85% and child poverty reaches 36% in the city.
- Harsh Weather Conditions: Harsh winters average 47.2 inches of snowfall annually, with temperatures dropping below 0°F on 3.3 days.
Sandusky offers a balance of small-town comfort and recreational amenities. Those exploring homes for sale in Sandusky will find a community combining affordability with lakeside charm and accessible urban conveniences. Sandusky offers an affordable cost of living with access to scenic Lake Erie beaches and family-friendly parks.
- Cable Park Historic District: A quiet historic residential area with homes set back from streets on Wayne Street between Scott and Cable. It is attractive due to its park-like setting and proximity to downtown Sandusky and Sandusky City Schools, including Hancock Elementary.
- Venice Heights: This is a dense suburban neighborhood centered on Venice Heights Blvd and Pinewood Dr. It is also near Venice Heights Elementary School and Sandusky Career Center, accessible via Ohio 2.
- Cove District: It is a coastal boathouse community with Key West-style homes on streets like Meigs and Sycamore. It is close to Lake Erie waterfront, Cedar Cove park, and boating areas, attracting water enthusiasts.
- Job Market: Key industries in Sandusky include plastics and rubber manufacturing, machinery, and healthcare. Major employers are Firelands Regional Medical Center, Cedar Fair, and Revere Plastics nearby in Clyde.
- Recreation: Popular spots include Merry-Go-Round Museum for vintage carousel exhibits, Ghostly Manor Thrill Center for haunted attractions, and Lions Park with its splash pad along Lake Erie.
- High Crime Rates: Sandusky’s total crime rate stands at 25 per 1,000 residents, higher than 91% of Ohio communities, with property crime at 1 in 42 chance.
- Limited Job Diversity: Employment centers on manufacturing like plastics and healthcare, limiting options in tech or professional services compared to larger cities.
- Natural Disaster Risk: Low overall risk at 21%, but 12 disasters declared in 20 years, mainly severe storms and flooding near Lake Erie.
Columbiana (safety score of 94) and Berea (safety score of 91) are the cheapest and safest cities in Florida. They offer low crime rates, family-friendly neighborhoods, and a lively, welcoming lifestyle.
Top 3 Cheapest Cities to Live in Ohio for Young Adults
When you’re searching for the most affordable places to live in Ohio, you need more than just cheap housing. You want steady jobs, a fun lifestyle, and a city where you can actually build a future. These Ohio cities offer all three, combining low living costs with growing job opportunities.
| Rank | City | Why It’s Great for Young Adults |
|---|---|---|
| 1. | Youngstown | Ranked as #2 hottest job market in the nation, Youngstown gives professionals strong career mobility supported by networks like Mahoning Valley Young Professionals and its 25 Under 35 mentorship program. Cultural appeal comes from attractions such as the Butler Institute of American Art and Mill Creek Park make homes for sale in Youngstown especially appealing. |
| 2. | Canton | The ystark! initiative connects young professionals through development programs, networking, and community events that make Canton an appealing place to build a future. Strong employers like TimkenSteel reinforce that appeal, and the availability of homes for sale in Canton gives newcomers practical options as the city continues to revitalize. |
| 3. | Toledo | Low median home values and rents give young professionals an affordable entry point into the area. Strong automotive job access and attractions like the Toledo Museum of Art and Toledo Zoo, along with Niche’s high ratings for millennial-friendly amenities, make it an easy place to build a lifestyle near Lake Erie. |
Top 3 Inexpensive Places to Live in Ohio for Families
Ohio is popular among families for its affordable housing, low cost of living, and strong community amenities. These three cities combine budget-friendly living with good schools and family-oriented neighborhoods.
| Rank | City | Why It’s Great for Families |
|---|---|---|
| 1. | Steubenville | The Steubenville City School District prepares students for college with strong programs at McKinley STEM Academy and Wells Academy. Combined with a safe, small-town setting near Pittsburgh and family attractions like Fort Steuben Park and historic sites, the city offers both educational and lifestyle appeal. |
| 2. | Niles | Affordable groceries and utilities make daily living cost-effective in Niles. The Niles City School District, including Niles McKinley High and Niles Preparatory Academy, provides strong educational options. Parks, low crime rates, and proximity to Youngstown’s healthcare and shopping support a family-friendly lifestyle. |
| 3. | Mansfield | Families benefit from strong educational options, including Ontario High School just outside the district. The area has a total of 58 schools, covering preschools through high school. Family attractions like Kingwood Center Gardens and a community-focused environment near Columbus support a well-rounded upbringing. |
3 Best Affordable Places to Live in Ohio for Retirees
| Rank | City | Why It’s Great for Retirees |
|---|---|---|
| 1. | Akron | The area has a large senior community, with 15.7% of residents over 65, and a livability score of 81. Residents access healthcare through Cleveland Clinic Akron General, and nearby Cuyahoga Valley National Park offers recreational opportunities. |
| 2. | Ashtabula | Lake Erie shores offer walks and picnics at Walnut Beach Park, visits to the Ashtabula Maritime Museum, and events at the Arts Center, creating a vibrant community lifestyle. With senior resources like the ACCOA Center for Active Living and affordable care at Country Club Rehabilitation Campus, homes for sale in Ashtabula appeal to those seeking both recreation and support. |
| 3. | Sandusky | Lake Erie beaches, including Lions Park, offer residents waterfront recreation and scenic trails. Firelands Regional Medical Center and the Erie County Senior Center provide healthcare, fitness programs, and meal services. The area combines affordable waterfront living with fishing opportunities and year-round community events. |
3 Hidden Costs to Consider in Ohio
Even in the cheapest Ohio cities to live in, home prices are only part of the cost. So, factor in the high utility and property taxes along with the local income tax when looking for the cheapest area to live in Ohio.
- Property Taxes: Ohio has some of the highest property taxes in the Midwest, often ranging from 1.2% to 2.5% of a home’s assessed value.
- Local Income Taxes: Many Ohio cities charge an additional municipal income tax of 1% to 2.5%. Residents who live in one city and work in another may owe taxes in both (with partial credits).
- Utility Costs: Ohio’s older housing stock and long winters push utility expenses higher than average. Heating bills can reach $150–$300 per month in winter, and water/sewer fees in cities like Akron and Toledo tend to be above national norms.
Savings Breakdown: Cheapest Cities in Ohio to Live In
Housing costs vary dramatically across Ohio. Steubenville residents save $2,420 monthly compared to New Albany and $1,350 compared to Columbus. The following table breaks down these savings by median home price, monthly mortgage, property tax, insurance, and total monthly costs.
| City | Median Home Price | Avg. Monthly Mortgage | Insurance/taxes | Estimated Monthly Cost for a Single Person | Monthly Savings vs. New Albany |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Steubenville | $97,500 | $1,200 | $400 | $1,600 | $2,420 |
| Columbus | $280,000 | $2,257 | $693 | $2,950 | $1,070 |
| New Albany | $830,000 | $3,000 | $1,020 | $4,020 | – |
Affordable Living Beyond Ohio
Not sure if the cheapest places in Ohio to live will fit your budget? Here are a few surrounding states that offer affordable housing, employment opportunities, and education and schools, just like Ohio.
Affordable Housing
Indiana has homes at 26.7% below the national average. Here are the 3 cheapest places to live in Indiana:
- Gary: Median home price is $82,844, rent under $1,233 and housing is 12.7% below national averages.
- Marion: Median home price is $124,529, rent under $961, and 31.7% cheaper with accessible commutes to Indianapolis.
- Anderson: Median home price $127,247, rent under $895, and cost of living is 21.1% below national average.
Employment Opportunities
Kentucky offers manufacturing, logistics, and automotive jobs akin to Ohio’s economy. These are the cheapest places to live in Kentucky:
- Williamsburg: Average home price is $21,000, rent under $800, and major employers are University of the Cumberlands and Walmart.
- Ashland: Average home price is $144,000, rent under $1,000, and mainly provides jobs through King’s Daughters Medical Center.
- Middlesboro: Average home price is $180,000, rent under $839, and major sectors are retail, logistics, and hospitality.
Education and Schools
West Virginia matches Ohio’s mid-tier public school rankings while being the cheapest neighboring state to live in. Here are the top 3 cheapest places to live in West Virginia:
- Bluefield: Homes are priced at $111,170, rent under $750, and schools include Bluefield High, with a 79% graduation rate.
- Clarksburg: Median home price is $114,202, rent is at $900, and Harrison County ranks in the top 10 in WV, with a 88% graduation rate.
- Weirton: Median home price is $134,350, rent is under $750, and Hancock County school boast 90% graduation rate.
Where Is the Cheapest Place to Live in Ohio?
Steubenville, Niles, and Mansfield are the most affordable cities to live in Ohio. These areas offer more than low prices; they also provide steady job markets, plenty of recreation, and a cost of living 10% lower than the state average.
Moving to Ohio also comes with tax advantages, including an average property tax rate of about 1.41%. Whether you’re relocating or buying your first home, you can browse listings, compare prices, and make offers online.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the least expensive place to live in Ohio?
The cheapest place to live in Ohio is Steubenville. It offers affordable housing at a median sale price of $97,500.
» 10 Cheapest Places to Live in Ohio: Find out the other cheapest places to live in Ohio.
Where is the best place to live in Ohio?
The best place to live in Ohio is Columbus, followed by Cincinnati, Cleveland, Toledo, Youngstown, Dayton, Delaware, Dublin, Hudson, and Worthington.
What are the living expenses in Ohio?
The average cost to live in Ohio is 8% lower than the national average. Moreover, transportation and utilities are 4% cheaper than the national average.
Where is the best place to retire in Ohio on a budget?
Akron, Sandusky, and Ashtabula are the among the best places to retire in Ohio on a budget. They offer affordable housing, small-town comfort, and easy access to medical care.
Which cities have the cheapest cost of living in Ohio?
