Cost of Living in Lorain County, Ohio
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Lorain County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Lorain County ranks #2,413 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 23%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Lorain County, Ohio
Lorain County: Right At National Average
Lorain County's 15.6% rent-to-income ratio exactly matches the national benchmark, with a $70,693 median household income running 5% below the U.S. median of $74,755. Housing affordability here aligns with typical American standards—neither notably better nor worse.
Median in Ohio's Affordability Range
Lorain County's 15.6% rent-to-income ratio precisely matches Ohio's state average, reflecting balanced housing costs and incomes typical for the state. At $916 median rent, Lorain sits slightly above the state median of $873, offset by moderate household incomes.
Mid-Range Market Positioning
Lorain County's $916 rent falls between lower-cost counties like Logan ($832) and higher-cost Lake ($1,073), while its $70,693 income ranks solidly mid-cohort. This positioning makes Lorain a neutral choice—no outlier affordability advantages or disadvantages.
15.6% of Income to Rent
Renters allocate $916 monthly to gross rent—15.6% of the $70,693 median income—while homeowners carry $1,110, roughly 18.8% of household earnings. Lorain County households experience typical Ohio cost-of-living dynamics with reasonable housing burden.
Lorain: Typical Ohio Option
Lorain County suits relocators seeking a straightforward Ohio market without unusual affordability advantages or constraints. If you want average housing costs and incomes aligned with state norms, Lorain provides a stable, predictable living environment.
Cost of Living Advisory: Lorain County
Affordability Verdict
Lorain County offers affordable rental housing at a median of $916/month — about 15.5% of the typical household income here.
Rent vs. Own
At $916/month rent versus $1,110/month in owner costs, renting is roughly $194/month cheaper — a 17% difference.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $36,640/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $47,571/year. With a median household income of $70,693, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 28.0% of renter households in Lorain County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Compared to Montgomery County where rent averages $968/month, Lorain County is approximately 5% less expensive.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Lorain County
Rent Burden
15.5%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,650
per month
Owner Cost Burden
18.8%
of gross income
The median home in Lorain County may be a stretch
Median home value is $207,200. Estimated monthly cost: $1,654 vs. your max of $1,650.
Rent Affordability Guide
Income Needed Calculator
See how much you need to earn to comfortably afford housing
$0/yr
Needed to stay within recommended threshold
$0/yr
Needed to stay within recommended threshold
$0/yr
Needed to stay within recommended threshold
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
What is the cost of living in Lorain County, Ohio?
What is the median rent in Lorain County?
Is Lorain County affordable?
How does Lorain County's rent compare to the state average?
What is the median home value in Lorain County?
Counties with Similar Housing Costs
Planning a Move?
Researching the cost of living in Lorain County, Ohio? Compare moving quotes from top providers and save on your relocation.
Compare Moving QuotesCompare Mortgage Rates in Lorain County
Whether you're buying your first home or refinancing, compare rates from top lenders to find the best deal.
See Today's RatesData: U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Survey (ACS) 5-Year Estimates (2019-2023) — Informational only. Not financial or legal advice.
CostByCounty participates in affiliate programs. We may earn a commission when you use our links, at no extra cost to you.