Cost of Living in Erie County, Ohio
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Erie County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Erie County ranks #1,864 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 41%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Erie County, Ohio
Erie County aligns closely with national affordability
Renters in Erie County spend 15.5% of their income on rent, nearly matching Ohio's state average of 15.6% and sitting close to national housing cost patterns. With a median household income of $68,431 (8% below the national average) and monthly rents of $882, Erie offers reasonably balanced housing economics.
Middle-of-pack affordability in Ohio
Erie County's 15.5% rent-to-income ratio sits right at Ohio's state average, with rents of $882 slightly above the state median of $873. This middle-tier positioning makes Erie a stable, predictable housing market without the affordability pressures of more expensive urban counties.
Slightly pricier than rural northwest Ohio
Erie's $882 monthly rent exceeds nearby Darke County ($747) and Defiance County ($826), reflecting its larger population and industrial base along Lake Erie. Home values of $183,900 position Erie between rural counties and more affluent suburban markets.
Balanced budget demands in Lake Erie region
A typical Erie County renter earning $68,431 annually pays $882 monthly in rent, consuming 15.5% of gross income, while homeowners spend $945 on $183,900 median-valued homes. These ratios allow reasonable household budget flexibility despite below-average county incomes.
Erie offers steady housing stability
If you value predictable, middle-tier housing costs without surprises, Erie County delivers reliable affordability patterns that match statewide norms. The county's Lake Erie location and industrial employment base make it an underrated option for relocators seeking stability over premium amenities.
Cost of Living Advisory: Erie County
Affordability Verdict
For renters in Erie County, the market is affordable. Expect to pay around $882/month in gross rent, with 26.0% of renter households considered cost-burdened.
Rent vs. Own
The median rent in Erie County is $882/month, while owner costs run $945/month. Renting saves approximately $63/month.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $35,280/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $40,500/year. With a median household income of $68,431, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 26.0% of renter households in Erie County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Compared to Lawrence County where rent averages $830/month, Erie County is approximately 6% more expensive.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Erie County
Rent Burden
15.5%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,597
per month
Owner Cost Burden
16.6%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Erie County
Median home value is $183,900. Estimated monthly cost: $1,468 vs. your max of $1,597.
Rent Affordability Guide
Income Needed Calculator
See how much you need to earn to comfortably afford housing
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Based on the 30% rule for rent and 28% rule for housing costs (mortgage + owner costs). Mortgage estimate assumes 20% down, 7.2% interest, 30-year fixed.
Frequently Asked Questions
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See Today's RatesData: U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Survey (ACS) 5-Year Estimates (2019-2023) — Informational only. Not financial or legal advice.
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