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Transparent & data-driven

How We Ranked the Most Expensive Places

Each city is scored across five weighted categories using daily MLS data and verified government stats. Every metric is benchmarked against both its state average and the national average — dual benchmarking — so a market isn’t judged expensive just for sitting in a high-cost state.

Scoring weights

  • Housing Costs40%

    Sale price, price per sq ft & high-value concentration vs. state and national benchmarks.

  • Rent Burden20%

    Median rent, rent-to-income ratio & rental demand vs. state and national medians.

  • Income vs. Cost Imbalance15%

    The gap between median household income and the cost of living for the area.

  • Market Demand Intensity15%

    Turnover, scarcity, days on market & buyer competition from Houzeo’s live MLS feed.

  • Cost of Living10%

    Utilities, transportation & everyday goods vs. state and national averages — the tiebreaker.

Our data sources

MLS metrics update daily; government data is added on each agency’s release schedule.

Best Expensive Places to Retire in Ohio

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Top 3 Most Expensive Ohio Cities Worth It for Families

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Top 3 Most Expensive Cities Worth It for Young Adults

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Cost of Living in Ohio's Most Expensive Cities

High home prices are only part of the equation in Ohio's priciest markets. Groceries, utilities, and insurance all run above the national average. Coastal homeowner's insurance alone can add thousands to your annual budget. Here is what to expect across five of Ohio's most expensive cities.

CityMedian Home PriceMedian RentCost of LivingRank
Hunting Valley $1,549,250$1,650arrow 75% above national avg1/10
New Albany $950,750$2,500arrow 40% above national avg2/10
The Village of Indian Hill $1,485,000$3,950arrow 65% above national avg3/10
Upper Arlington $610,000$1,949arrow 30% above national avg4/10
Bexley $661,250$1,450arrow 25% above national avg5/10

Safest Places to Live in Ohio

Safety is a top concern for many people moving to Ohio. These cities rank among the safest based on the latest FBI crime data. They report lower rates of violent and property crime than the state average. You can see the full list in our safest places to live in Ohio rankings.

Rank#1

Broadview Heights

99/100

Score

Safest Safest

Rank#2

Aurora

96/100

Score

Safest Safest

Rank#3

Avon Lake

94/100

Score

Safest Safest

Rank#4

Powell

91/100

Score

Safest Safest

Rank#5

Upper Arlington

89/100

Score

Safest Safest

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Frequently Asked Questions

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Based on information from the Board/Association of REALTORS® (alternatively, from the Service) through Oct 6, 2026, 11:30 AM. The data relating to real estate for sale on this website comes in part from the Internet Data Exchange program of MLS Now. Real estate listings held by brokerage firms other than Houzeo are marked with the Internet Data Exchange logo and detailed information about them includes the name of the listing broker(s). This website may not include listings or property addresses of sellers who have directed their listing brokers to withhold their listing or their property address from display on the Internet. Information is provided exclusively for personal, non-commercial use, and may not be used for any purpose other than to identify prospective properties consumers may be interested in purchasing. All information deemed reliable but not guaranteed.
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The market analysis provided on this page is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial, investment, or legal advice. Data is sourced from public records, industry reports, and third-party providers, and while Houzeo strives for accuracy, we make no guarantees regarding the completeness, accuracy, or timeliness of the information presented.

All estimates, projections, and historical data are based on statistical models and should not be relied upon as predictions of future market conditions. Past performance is not indicative of future results, and real estate market conditions may change due to various economic and regulatory factors. Users are responsible for conducting their own due diligence before making any real estate or financial decisions. Houzeo is not liable for any decisions or actions taken based on the information provided. Any unauthorized use, duplication, or distribution of the data may violate copyright laws and result in legal consequences. Certain information, tools and services on this page may be powered by third-party vendors. Houzeo does not control or guarantee the accuracy, reliability, or functionality of such third-party services.