Cost of Living in Fairfield County, Ohio
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Fairfield County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Fairfield County ranks #2,560 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 19%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Fairfield County, Ohio
Fairfield's affluence keeps housing affordable
Fairfield County's median household income of $87,069 runs 16% above the national average, making its 15.3% rent-to-income ratio exceptionally manageable despite monthly rents of $1,114. The county exemplifies how strong incomes can accommodate higher absolute housing costs while maintaining healthy affordability ratios.
Best affordability among Ohio's prosperous counties
Fairfield County ranks in Ohio's upper tier for both income and affordability, with household earnings 31% above the state average and a rent-to-income ratio of 15.3% (just below the state average). Renters pay $241 more monthly than Ohio's median rent, but high incomes make this difference negligible.
Premium prices with income to match
Fairfield's $1,114 monthly rent and $272,200 median home value exceed most surrounding counties but pale against Delaware County's costs. The county's $87,069 median income ranks second only to Delaware among regional peers, justifying its status as a prosperous suburban market.
High income absorbs premium housing costs
A typical Fairfield County renter earning $87,069 annually pays $1,114 monthly in rent, consuming just 15.3% of gross income, while homeowners commit $1,334 to $272,200 median-valued properties. The county's above-average incomes make these costs feel manageable within household budgets.
Fairfield rewards higher-earning relocators
Fairfield County's combination of strong local job markets, quality schools, and reasonable affordability ratios appeals to professionals earning above-average incomes. If you're relocating with household income above $80,000, Fairfield's prosperity and stability make it worth careful consideration.
Cost of Living Advisory: Fairfield County
Affordability Verdict
Fairfield County offers affordable rental housing at a median of $1,114/month — about 15.4% of the typical household income here.
Rent vs. Own
The median rent in Fairfield County is $1,114/month, while owner costs run $1,334/month. Renting saves approximately $220/month.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $44,560/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $57,171/year. With a median household income of $87,069, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 29.0% of renter households in Fairfield County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Compared to Clermont County where rent averages $1,040/month, Fairfield County is approximately 7% more expensive.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Fairfield County
Rent Burden
15.4%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$2,032
per month
Owner Cost Burden
18.4%
of gross income
The median home in Fairfield County may be a stretch
Median home value is $272,200. Estimated monthly cost: $2,173 vs. your max of $2,032.
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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