Ohio is a state known for its diverse landscapes, bustling cities, and friendly communities. It’s no wonder that many people are choosing to call Ohio home. However, with the rising cost of living in many parts of the country, finding an affordable place to live can be a challenge. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of the 14 most affordable places to live in Ohio in 2025. Whether you’re already living in Ohio or considering a move, these cities offer a high quality of life at an affordable price.
1. Toledo
Located in northwest Ohio, Toledo is a city with a rich history and a low cost of living. The median home price in Toledo is around $80,000, making it one of the most affordable places to buy a home in Ohio. The city also offers a variety of cultural attractions, including the Toledo Museum of Art and the Toledo Zoo.
2. Youngstown
Youngstown is a city in northeastern Ohio that has undergone a revitalization in recent years. With a median home price of around $70,000, it’s a great place for first-time homebuyers or those looking for a more affordable option. The city also has a strong job market, with opportunities in healthcare, education, and manufacturing.
3. Dayton
Known as the birthplace of aviation, Dayton is a city in western Ohio that offers a low cost of living and a high quality of life. The median home price in Dayton is around $90,000, and the city is home to several major employers, including Wright-Patterson Air Force Base and Premier Health.
4. Akron
Located in northeastern Ohio, Akron is a city with a strong sense of community and a low cost of living. The median home price in Akron is around $90,000, and the city is home to several universities, including the University of Akron and Kent State University.
5. Canton
Canton is a city in northeastern Ohio that offers a mix of urban and suburban living. The median home price in Canton is around $90,000, and the city is home to the Pro Football Hall of Fame. It also has a strong healthcare industry, with major employers like Aultman Hospital and Mercy Medical Center.
6. Mansfield
Mansfield is a city in north-central Ohio that offers a low cost of living and a small-town feel. The median home price in Mansfield is around $80,000, and the city is home to several parks and outdoor recreational areas, including the Mohican State Park.
7. Lima
Located in northwestern Ohio, Lima is a city with a strong manufacturing industry and a low cost of living. The median home price in Lima is around $80,000, and the city is home to several colleges and universities, including Ohio State University-Lima and the University of Northwestern Ohio.
8. Marion
Marion is a city in north-central Ohio that offers a low cost of living and a strong sense of community. The median home price in Marion is around $80,000, and the city is home to several parks and recreational areas, including the Marion Tallgrass Trail and the Marion County Fairgrounds.
9. Zanesville
Zanesville is a city in southeastern Ohio that offers a low cost of living and a small-town atmosphere. The median home price in Zanesville is around $80,000, and the city is home to several historic sites, including the Y-Bridge and the John McIntire Library.
10. Chillicothe
Located in southern Ohio, Chillicothe is a city with a rich history and a low cost of living. The median home price in Chillicothe is around $90,000, and the city is home to several parks and outdoor recreational areas, including the Great Seal State Park and the Scioto Trail State Park.
11. Portsmouth
Portsmouth is a city in southern Ohio that offers a low cost of living and a strong sense of community. The median home price in Portsmouth is around $80,000, and the city is home to several historic sites, including the Portsmouth Floodwall Murals and the Shawnee State Park.
12. Ashtabula
Located in northeastern Ohio, Ashtabula is a city with a low cost of living and a strong sense of community. The median home price in Ashtabula is around $70,000, and the city is home to several parks and outdoor recreational areas

