Cheapest Cities to Rent in Ohio (2026)
Discover the most affordable cities for renters in Ohio. These 3 cities offer the lowest rent prices in the state, perfect for budget-conscious renters.
$1,140
Cheapest 2BR
$1,268
State Average 2BR
$128
Monthly Savings
$1,536
Yearly Savings
Top 3 Cheapest Cities in Ohio
Ranked by 2-bedroom rent price (lowest first)
| Rank | City | Studio | 1 Bed | 2 Bed | 3 Bed | Income Needed |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
#1 | Dayton, OH | $808 | $950 | $1,140 | $1,473 | $45,600/yr |
#2 | Cleveland, OH | $850 | $940 | $1,233 | $1,584 | $49,320/yr |
#3 | Columbus, OH | $1,111 | $1,194 | $1,430 | $1,715 | $57,200/yr |
Why These Ohio Cities Are Affordable
Ohio ranks as highly affordable for renters. Columbus offers excellent value for a growing metro, while Cleveland, Cincinnati, and smaller cities provide some of the nation's lowest major-metro rents.
- Below-average housing costs: These cities have housing indices lower than the state average of 75
- Lower demand: Smaller populations and less competitive markets keep prices reasonable
- Diverse housing stock: Mix of older and newer buildings provides options at various price points
- Regional economies: Local job markets support working populations without coastal-city premiums
Income Requirements
Using the standard 30% of income guideline, here's what you need to earn to afford rent in Ohio's cheapest cities:
#1: Dayton
2BR: $1,140/mo requires $45,600/year
#2: Cleveland
2BR: $1,233/mo requires $49,320/year
#3: Columbus
2BR: $1,430/mo requires $57,200/year
How Ohio's Cheapest Cities Compare
vs State Average
-$128/mo
cheaper than Ohio average
vs National Average
-$260/mo
cheaper than US average
Cost of Living Index
90
Below national average (100)
What to Consider Before Moving
Best For
- ✓Budget-conscious renters
- ✓Healthcare workers
- ✓Those seeking urban amenities at low cost
- ✓Sports fans
Considerations
- •Cold winters
- •Lake effect snow (Cleveland)
- •Some areas face economic decline