Cost of Living in Ottawa County, Ohio
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Ottawa County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Ottawa County ranks #629 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 20%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Ottawa County, Ohio
Ottawa: Above-National Income, Best Affordability
Ottawa County renters spend just 14.4% of their income on rent—the lowest ratio among all eight counties—while earning $75,728 annually, slightly above the national average of $74,755. This combination of strong income and efficient housing costs makes Ottawa Ohio's affordability leader in this group.
Ottawa Leads Ohio's Housing Affordability
At 14.4%, Ottawa's rent-to-income ratio substantially beats Ohio's 15.6% average, ranking it among the state's most affordable counties for renters. The median rent of $909 sits just $36 above the state average, but Ottawa's higher median income of $75,728 creates the efficiency gap.
Highest Income Drives Affordability Advantage
Ottawa's 14.4% rent-to-income ratio significantly outpaces nearby counties: Morrow (15.9%), Montgomery (18.0%), and all deep-rural options, even though Ottawa's median rent of $909 is not the lowest. Ottawa's competitive advantage stems from its superior median income at $75,728, anchored by strong regional employment.
Strong Income Cushions Housing Expenses
The $909 monthly rent represents just 14.4% of Ottawa's $75,728 median income, while homeowners dedicate 15.3% to their $963 monthly cost—both well below strain thresholds. Ottawa households retain substantially more discretionary income than peers in lower-income counties, supporting both savings and consumer spending.
Ottawa: Affordability Plus Opportunity
If you're relocating to Ohio and seeking the best combination of housing affordability and economic opportunity, Ottawa County delivers: 14.4% rent-to-income ratio and median income of $75,728. Compare Ottawa's balanced profile against rural affordability leaders like Paulding or Perry—Ottawa costs slightly more but offers significantly better employment stability and wage growth.
Cost of Living Advisory: Ottawa County
Affordability Verdict
For renters in Ottawa County, the market is affordable. Expect to pay around $909/month in gross rent, with 26.0% of renter households considered cost-burdened.
Rent vs. Own
At $909/month rent versus $963/month in owner costs, renting is roughly $54/month cheaper — a 6% difference.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $36,360/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $41,271/year. With a median household income of $75,728, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 26.0% of renter households in Ottawa County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Compared to Ross County where rent averages $858/month, Ottawa County is approximately 6% more expensive.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Ottawa County
Rent Burden
14.4%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,767
per month
Owner Cost Burden
15.3%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Ottawa County
Median home value is $200,700. Estimated monthly cost: $1,602 vs. your max of $1,767.
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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