Ohio, known as the "Buckeye State", is a very affordable Midwest state with some of the lowest housing costs in the country. Here is everything you need to know about the cost of living in the Buckeye State — from housing and groceries to taxes, utilities, childcare, and what salary you actually need.
Here is what a typical month costs in Ohio for a single person earning the median income of $59,300/year:
Each category shows how Ohio compares to the national average. Green means cheaper, yellow means similar, orange/red means more expensive.
Adjust your salary to see a detailed monthly budget breakdown for living in Ohio.
Select a state to see how much salary you would need there to maintain the same lifestyle you have in Ohio.
The most popular cities for residents and newcomers in Ohio:
Housing is the single biggest expense in Ohio, as it is everywhere. The median home price in Ohio is $235,000, and the median rent for a one-bedroom apartment is $900/month. With a housing cost index of 69, Ohio housing is 31% cheaper than the national average.
Housing in Ohio is a genuine advantage. The low cost of housing frees up income for savings, investments, and discretionary spending that residents of expensive states simply cannot afford.
Ohio has a state income tax rate of 3.99%. On the median household income of $59,300, you will pay approximately $2,366/year in state income tax ($197/month). This is below the national average — a tax advantage for Ohio residents.
The average single person in Ohio spends approximately $385/month on groceries. A family of four can expect to spend $963-$1,155/month. The food cost index of 96 means groceries in Ohio are 4% below the national average.
Gas prices in Ohio average $3.15/gallon. For the average commuter driving 15,000 miles/year at 25 MPG, that is roughly $1,890/year in fuel costs.
Ohio healthcare costs are 7% below the national average (index: 93). The average annual healthcare cost per person in Ohio is approximately $5,580 including premiums and out-of-pocket expenses. Employer-sponsored health insurance covers the majority of working adults.
Infant daycare in Ohio averages $850/month ($10,200/year). This is below the national average, making Ohio more family-friendly from a financial perspective. Many families in Ohio find that one parent staying home is more cost-effective when two or more children need daycare.
Ohio is an excellent choice for anyone prioritizing affordability. Your dollar stretches 11% further here than the national average. The trade-off may include fewer big-city amenities in some areas, but cities like Columbus and Cleveland offer a good balance of affordability and quality of life.
See all Ohio financial calculators:
Ohio (OH) has a cost of living index of 89, meaning it is 11% cheaper than the US average. Housing is the biggest factor with an index of 69. The median rent is $900/month and the median home price is $235,000. Ohio ranks #10 out of 50 states for affordability (1 = cheapest).
For a single person, a comfortable salary in Ohio is approximately $77,090/year ($6,424/month). For a family of four, aim for $130,460/year. This covers housing at 30% of income, groceries ($385/mo), transportation, healthcare, and a 15% savings rate. The median household income in Ohio is $59,300.
The median rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Ohio is approximately $900/month. A two-bedroom averages $1,215/month. Rent varies significantly by city: Columbus, Cleveland, Cincinnati are the most popular metro areas. Housing in Ohio is affordable compared to the national average.
Ohio is an excellent choice for affordability. With a cost of living 11% below the national average and median rent of just $900/month, your money goes significantly further here. Top cities include Columbus, Cleveland, Cincinnati.
The most affordable areas in Ohio are typically smaller cities and rural areas away from the major metros. Within Ohio, costs can vary 20-40% between the most expensive city (Columbus metro) and more affordable areas. Dayton and Akron tend to offer lower costs while still providing good amenities and job opportunities.
The average monthly grocery bill in Ohio for a single person is approximately $385 ($963 for a family of four). Ohio food costs are 4% below the national average. Shopping at Walmart, Aldi, and local discount stores can reduce this by 15-25%.
The average monthly electric bill in Ohio is approximately $125. Total utilities (electric, gas, water, internet) average $275/month. Ohio utilities are 3% below the national average. Utility costs are manageable for most households.
Ohio has a state income tax rate of 3.99%. On the median household income of $59,300, that is approximately $2,366/year in state income tax. This is below the national average — a tax advantage.