Cost of Living in Franklin County, Ohio
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Franklin County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Franklin County ranks #2,390 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 24%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Franklin County, Ohio
Franklin County rents rank higher nationally
Franklin County residents spend 20.1% of their income on rent, significantly above the national average of 15.6%. This means a typical household here dedicates roughly one-fifth of earnings to housing costs, compared to the national norm.
Among Ohio's least affordable counties
Franklin County's rent-to-income ratio of 20.1% ranks it among Ohio's least affordable counties, well above the state average of 15.6%. The median rent of $1,233 per month exceeds the Ohio median of $873 by 41%.
Pricier than rural neighbors, less than suburbs
Franklin County's median rent of $1,233 significantly exceeds nearby Fulton County ($832) and Hancock County ($926), reflecting Columbus's urban pull. However, it remains more affordable than wealthy suburban Geauga County, where median rent climbs to $1,018 despite higher home values.
Homeownership costs bite harder here
Monthly housing costs break down to $1,233 for renters and $1,423 for homeowners against a median income of $73,795. This means the typical household dedicates over 20% of income to rent alone, or nearly 23% for mortgage-paying owners.
Columbus offers urban life—with a price
If you're considering a move to Franklin County, weigh the urban amenities and job market against above-average housing costs. Exploring nearby Fulton, Hancock, or Greene counties could yield comparable income opportunities with significantly lower rent burdens.
Cost of Living Advisory: Franklin County
Affordability Verdict
Franklin County is affordable for renters, with a median gross rent of $1,233/month representing approximately 20.1% of median household income. The rent burden (GRAPI) stands at 28.0%.
Rent vs. Own
Renters in Franklin County pay $1,233/month on average, compared to $1,423/month for homeowners. This market favors renters by about 13%.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $49,320/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $60,986/year. With a median household income of $73,795, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 28.0% of renter households in Franklin County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Compared to Warren County where rent averages $1,293/month, Franklin County is approximately 5% less expensive.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Franklin County
Rent Burden
20.1%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,722
per month
Owner Cost Burden
23.1%
of gross income
The median home in Franklin County may be a stretch
Median home value is $265,700. Estimated monthly cost: $2,121 vs. your max of $1,722.
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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