The Most Affordable Cities in Ohio

Corn, football, and rock-and-roll – what more could you want? Ohio is a Midwestern state with plenty of character. Enjoy driving through the rolling hills and fields on your way to your favorite local zoos, sporting events, and museums. If you’re ready to become a Buckeye, NewHomeSource has compiled a list of the 10 most affordable cities to help inform your choice.

1. Ashtabula

Home Price to Income Ratio: 2.26

Property Tax Rate: 1.68%

Median Household Income: $43,782

Ashtabula kicks off our list of affordable cities in Ohio. Ashtabula is an affordable option for new homebuyers looking for a charming lakeside community with small-town appeal. Compared to larger Ohio cities like Cleveland, Columbus, or Cincinnati, Ashtabula offers significantly lower home prices and property taxes, making it an attractive choice for those looking to maximize their budget. The cost of living is below the national average, allowing residents to enjoy a high quality of life without the financial strain found in bigger metropolitan areas.

Entertainment and recreation in Ashtabula revolve around its beautiful location along Lake Erie. The city offers access to parks like Walnut Beach Park and Lake Shore Park, where residents can enjoy swimming, fishing, and picnicking. The Ashtabula Harbor District is a growing hotspot with restaurants, boutique shops, and waterfront dining. Wine lovers will appreciate the Grand River Valley Wine Region, which boasts numerous wineries. Additionally, there are local theaters, seasonal festivals, and nearby Geneva-on-the-Lake for more entertainment options.

For shopping and dining, Ashtabula has a mix of local businesses and national retailers. The Ashtabula Towne Square mall and surrounding retail centers provide convenient shopping, while the historic harbor district features unique boutiques and eateries.

Cleveland, about an hour's drive away, is the nearest large city, offering major league sports, concerts, and a vibrant cultural scene. Erie, Pennsylvania, is also within easy reach for additional shopping and entertainment.

Scenic landscapes, wine country, and friendly people put this Ohio locale at the top of the list!

2. Niles

Home Price to Income Ratio: 2.17

Property Tax Rate: 1.76%

Median Household Income: $49,987

Niles is in northeast Ohio, approximately 68 miles from Cleveland. A welcoming city in Trumbull County, known for its rich history and community spirit, Niles is the birthplace of President William McKinley. Its strategic location between Warren and Youngstown makes it an attractive option for new homebuyers seeking affordability without sacrificing convenience.

The median listing home price in Niles is right around $140,000. You’ll find local amenities and attractions like parks, banquet halls, and malls. The Eastwood Mall is home to The Aquarium, which contains saltwater fish, live coral, and even a shark tank.

Niles also gives easy access to Pittsburgh just over an hour away. Take full advantage of the fun with visits to the Phipps Conservatory, the Pittsburgh Zoo, and Acrisure Stadium to see the Steelers in action.

3. Steubenville

Home Price to Income Ratio: 2.72

Property Tax Rate: 2.19%

Median Household Income: $47,057

Steubenville is the county seat of Jefferson County. Located along the Ohio-West Virginia border and the Ohio River, Steubenville has riverside attractions such as a marina, the Jefferson County Historical Association, and Historic Fort Steuben. In the wintertime, head on over to Steubenville Nutcracker Village for a festive delight!

Steubenville is an affordable option, particularly compared to larger Ohio cities like Columbus, Cincinnati, or even nearby Pittsburgh. The cost of living is lower than the national average, and home prices tend to be more budget-friendly, making it an attractive choice for first-time buyers or those looking for more space without breaking the bank. Property taxes are also reasonable, adding to its appeal. Median home values are close to $128,000.

The city is known for its historical sites, including the murals downtown and the Dean Martin Festival, celebrating the famous singer who was born here. The "City of Murals" has over 25 murals located in its downtown. Beatty Park and Belleview Park provide green spaces, walking trails, and picnic areas.

Close to major cities like Pittsburgh, which is about 40 miles away, discover additional job opportunities, entertainment, and an international airport. Public schools in Steubenville, including Steubenville High School, have strong athletic programs, and there are private school options like Catholic Central High School. Higher education is also available at Franciscan University, which attracts students from across the country.

The economy is supported by healthcare, education, and manufacturing. Trinity Health System is a major employer, along with the steel and energy industries. The affordability, proximity to Pittsburgh, and small-town charm make Steubenville a practical and affordable choice when looking for a balance between cost, convenience, and community.

4. Youngstown

Home Price to Income Ratio: 1.68

Property Tax Rate: 2.15%

Median Household Income: $34,746

Feel young in Youngstown! With over 60,000 residents calling it home, Youngstown is a sizable city with a friendly atmosphere. Housing prices here are significantly lower than in major Ohio cities. The median home value is around $60,000. You will also find property taxes and the overall cost of living are also well below the national average, allowing buyers to get more house for their money compared to other metro areas.

Youngstown offers a variety of entertainment, dining, and outdoor recreation. The Covelli Centre hosts concerts, sporting events, and performances, while downtown Youngstown has a growing arts scene, with the DeYor Performing Arts Center and the Butler Institute of American Art. Mill Creek Park, one of the largest urban parks in the U.S., provides miles of trails, gardens, and lakes for outdoor enthusiasts.

The city is conveniently located between Cleveland and Pittsburgh, each about an hour’s drive away, offering access to big-city amenities while maintaining a smaller-town cost of living. Youngstown has a mix of public and private schools, with Youngstown State University providing higher education opportunities.

Major employers in the area include Mercy Health, Vallourec, and various manufacturing and logistics companies. With its affordability, access to nature, and proximity to larger cities, Youngstown is worth of consideration for value, space, and convenience without the high costs of bigger metro areas.

5. Mansfield

Home Price to Income Ratio: 2.59

Property Tax Rate: 1.96%

Median Household Income: $42,605

Mansfield is located halfway between Columbus and Cleveland, making it an ideal spot for those who commute to the bigger cities. Known as "The Fun Center of Ohio," Mansfield offers an attractive blend of affordability, amenities, and community spirit.

Downtown Mansfield is a lively scene of restaurants and attractions like Mansfield Memorial Museum and Little Buckeye Children’s Museum. Other highlights include the Kingwood Center Gardens where you will find duck ponds, peacocks, and multiple floral displays.

Manfield's touch with the movie industry is seen in Shawshank Redemption and its use of the Ohio State Reformatory as a filming location. It's a fun, Ohio city to call home with median home values around $115,000.

6. Sandusky

Home Price to Income Ratio: 2.19

Property Tax Rate: 1.79%

Median Household Income: $47,827

Located along the shores of Lake Erie, Sandusky is your go-to destination for waterside entertainment and living. The harbors are lined with restaurants, retail districts, and of course, plenty of sailing opportunities. For a unique museum experience, check out the Merry-Go-Round Museum, featuring a vintage working carousel.

Sandusky delivers a mix of affordability, entertainment, and small-town charm that appeals to new homebuyers. Compared to other Ohio cities, Sandusky has a relatively low cost of living, with median home prices below state and national averages. Property taxes are reasonable, and homebuyers can find a mix of historic homes, waterfront properties, and newer developments.

Entertainment and recreation are major draws to Sandusky, most notably Cedar Point, one of the country's top amusement parks. The city also offers scenic lakefront parks, boating, fishing, and access to the Lake Erie Islands. Additionally, the revitalized downtown district features breweries, coffee shops, and boutique stores.

Sandusky is within driving distance of larger cities like Cleveland (about an hour east) and Toledo (about 45 minutes west), providing access to additional job markets and urban amenities. Public schools are served by Sandusky City Schools, which offers various academic and extracurricular programs, including a college prep academy. Several private and parochial schools, such as St. Mary Central Catholic, offer alternative education options.

Major employers in the area include Cedar Fair (which operates Cedar Point), Firelands Regional Medical Center, and industrial and manufacturing companies like Ventra Sandusky. The tourism industry also supports a variety of service and hospitality jobs.

From waterparks to amusement parks to green spaces, this city has plenty to keep boredom at bay. The historic waterfront is the ideal place to spend time at boutiques and art galleries.

7. Warren

Home Price to Income Ratio: 2.16

Property Tax Rate: 2.20%

Median Household Income: $36,955

Warren is approximately 56 miles southeast of Cleveland. With an affordable housing market, Warren makes the list. Here you can enjoy museums, country clubs, and drive-in movie theaters. The Mahoning River weaves its way through the city, and on warm days you can enjoy hiking along the green space of the riverwalk. Outdoor enthusiasts can explore Packard Park, Perkins Park, and the Western Reserve Greenway for biking and walking trails.

Warren has aviation and automotive history. Neil Armstrong took his first airplane ride here. Residents appreciate the many festivals and events centered around ethnicity. Major employers in the Warren area include Trumbull Regional Medical Center, General Motors in nearby Lordstown, and industries related to manufacturing, healthcare, and logistics.

The area's affordability, combined with its central location and strong community feel are sure to have you feeling right at home.

8. Eastlake

Home Price to Income Ratio: 2.69

Property Tax Rate: 2.10%

Median Household Income: $62,510

Eastlake is a welcoming city located along Lake Erie. Enjoy beaches, yacht clubs, and sports complexes in this waterside town. Cleveland is a mere 19 miles southwest of Eastlake, so you can take a weekend trip or commute easily without an exhausting drive. The average home value is around $190,000 offering proximity to a major city.

Living by Cleveland is a win for music lovers that want to check out the Rock n' Roll Hall of Fame, the Cleveland Browns, and the Cleveland Guardians (formerly Indians). Eastlake is a great option for commuters. Residents can enjoy the Boulevard of 500 Flags, one of the world's largest permanent displays of American flags. The nearby Chagrin River Park offers trails and picnic areas.

Eastlake and the surrounding Lake County host several major employers. Notable companies include Avery Dennison Corporation and Lubrizol Corporation. The healthcare sector is also prominent, with institutions like Cleveland Clinic offering employment opportunities within commuting distance.

Get ready for suburban tranquility at a nice price point.

9. Canton

Home Price to Income Ratio: 2.3

Property Tax Rate: 2.19%

Median Household Income: $39,754

Football fans, look no further than Canton! This northeast city is the home of the Pro Football Hall of Fame, where you will find your favorite players immortalized. Canton also features the First Ladies National Historic Site, McKinley Presidential Library & Museum, and the Canton Museum of Art.

Located in northeastern Ohio, Canton is within an hour’s drive of larger cities like Cleveland and Akron, offering access to even more entertainment, job opportunities, and airports. The public schools in Canton vary by district, with some highly rated options in the surrounding suburbs, while private and charter school options also serve families looking for alternatives. Home buyers can find a variety of housing options, from historic homes to new developments, at reasonable prices with median home values falling around $100,000.

Along with outstanding attractions, spend your free time exploring your temptations for your taste buds. The Gervasi Vineyard is a wine resort sure to impress with its rustic charm. Looking for something sweet? Don't miss out on the old-fashioned ice cream parlor treats at Taggarts Ice Cream Parlor and Restaurant.

Canton’s economy benefits from a strong healthcare sector, with major employers like Aultman Health Foundation and Mercy Medical Center. TimkenSteel and Diebold Nixdorf also provide jobs in manufacturing and technology. The city's affordability, central location, and steady job market make it a great choice for a balance between cost and quality of life.

10. Zanesville

Home Price to Income Ratio: 2.73

Property Tax Rate: 2.12%

Median Household Income: $39,085

Zanesville is the county seat of Muskingum County. Discover a charming blend of small-town living with access to all the essentials for a fulfilling lifestyle. The city stands out for its affordability. Compared to larger cities like Columbus or Cleveland, Zanesville's cost of living is considerably lower, with more affordable housing options and property taxes. Mean home values are close to $110,000.

Entertainment and recreational options are plentiful, with the Zanesville area offering parks, lakes, and trails for outdoor enthusiasts. The city's historic downtown provides local dining experiences, boutique shopping, and galleries. The Muskingum River runs through town, adding scenic beauty and offering opportunities for boating and fishing.

Nearby, Columbus, Ohio’s largest city, is about an hour away, providing easy access to big-city amenities, including professional sports, theater, and a variety of cultural experiences. Other larger cities nearby include Cambridge and Newark, offering additional amenities and regional economic connections.

The major employers in the area include manufacturing companies, healthcare providers, and logistics firms. Some of the largest employers are the Genesis HealthCare System and a variety of local manufacturers, contributing to a stable job market.

From a thriving pottery industry including an annual festival to excellent golfing, Zanesville has something for everyone. As the birthplace of novelist, Zane Grey, Zanesville brings a warmth and charm to Ohio residents. Rounding out our list, Zanesville is an excellent choice for affordability, a family-friendly atmosphere, and a slower pace of life with access to the amenities of larger cities.

Cities with the Best Home Price to Income Ratio

While the list above is sorted by the lowest overall cost of living index, the following cities have the lowest home price to income ratio, meaning you can get more home for your money.

• Youngstown

• Warren

• Niles