Cost of Living in Ohio
Things cost about ▼ 7% less in Ohio than the national average.
What Things Cost in Ohio
Compared to the US national average
See raw index numbers
US national average = 100. Source: BEA Regional Price Parities 2023.
Ohio offers three distinct metros, each with a cost of living well below the national average. Columbus is the growth story: the state capital has added population and jobs (tech, healthcare, logistics) while housing remains remarkably affordable. Cincinnati has Old World charm, a nationally recognized food scene, and neighborhoods along the river that are attracting young professionals. Cleveland has world-class healthcare (Cleveland Clinic), an underrated cultural scene, and some of the cheapest housing in any major US metro. Statewide, costs run about 9% below average with housing roughly 26% below.
Ohio at a Glance
Taxes in Ohio
Ohio's state income tax tops out at Up to 3.5%. The combined sales tax averages 5.75%. Property taxes run about 1.53% of home value, which on a $193,000 median home means roughly $2,953/year.
Cities in Ohio
Ranked from least to most expensive. Index 100 = national average.
Explore Ohio
FAQ About Ohio
Columbus is one of the most underrated metros in America. It has a young, growing population, a cost of living about 10% below the national average, median home prices around $193,000, and a job market boosted by Ohio State University, healthcare systems, and incoming investment from Intel and other tech manufacturers. The Short North and German Village neighborhoods offer walkable urban living at prices that would be unthinkable in Austin or Denver.
Yes, and this is unusual. Many Ohio municipalities levy their own income tax, typically 1% to 2.5% on earned income. Columbus charges about 2.5%, Cleveland 2.5%, Cincinnati 1.8%. This means your total income tax depends on both the state rate and your city. The state's low top rate of 3.5% is partially offset by these local levies. Some smaller communities have no local tax.
Very. Cleveland has some of the lowest housing costs of any major metro in America, with median home prices around $109,600 in the city and $200,000 to $300,000 in desirable suburbs like Lakewood, Rocky River, and Shaker Heights. The Cleveland Clinic and University Hospitals provide world-class healthcare. The cost-to-amenity ratio is exceptional, though the job market is smaller than Columbus and the weather is gray for much of the year.