Home» Cost of Living» Ohio

Cost of Living in Ohio 2026

Ohio cost of living index: 100 (0% below the national average). Ohio has state income tax (top rate: 3.99%). Data as of January 2026.

📣 Ohio at a Glance

100
Cost Index
(nat'l=100)
3.99%
State Income Tax
(Top Rate)
1,100
Median Monthly Rent

ⓘ Public Data Source: Missouri Economic Research and Information Center. Data as of January 2026.

📊 Cost of Living Breakdown

CategoryOhioNational AvgDifference
Overall Cost Index 100 100 -0%
State Income Tax 3.99% 5% (avg) Average
Median Rent $1,100/mo $1,200/mo (avg) -8%

🏢 Major Metro Areas in Ohio

Cost of living varies significantly between metro areas within Ohio. Major cities typically have higher housing costs.

🔎 Compare Ohio to Another State

Compare

Or ask AI: "Compare Ohio vs Florida cost of living"

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the cost of living in Ohio in 2026?
Ohio has a cost of living index of 100 compared to the national average of 100. Ohio is 0% more affordable than the national average. Housing, groceries, utilities, transportation, and healthcare costs all factor into this index.
Is Ohio expensive to live in?
Ohio is more affordable than the national average. Residents typically pay less across most cost categories compared to most other states. The biggest driver of cost variation is housing prices in metropolitan areas.
How does Ohio's cost of living compare to other states?
Ohio's cost of living index of 100 compares to an average state around 100, meaning Ohio is notably more affordable than most other states. The most significant differences are in housing costs and state income taxes.
Does Ohio have a state income tax?
Ohio has a state income tax with rates up to 3.99%. State income tax is withheld from every paycheck.
What's the average salary needed to live comfortably in Ohio?
To live comfortably in Ohio (covering housing, food, transportation, healthcare, and modest savings), a single adult typically needs $55,000-$85,000/year. A family of four generally needs $90,000-$150,000/year depending on location and lifestyle. These estimates assume renting a modest apartment or owning a median-priced home.

Related Resources

Get a Personalized Cost Comparison for Ohio

Tell me your income, family size, and priorities and I'll compare Ohio's real cost of living against your target location.

Start AI Comparison
📈 THE FINANCE STACK

Get your weekly market edge. Free.

Market pulse, stock spotlights, and actionable frameworks — delivered every week.

No spam · Unsubscribe anytime · View all issues →