Cost of Living in Pickaway County, Ohio
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Pickaway County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Pickaway County ranks #2,414 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 23%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Pickaway County, Ohio
Pickaway's rent burden rivals the nation
Pickaway County's rent-to-income ratio of 15.9% sits just slightly above the national average, meaning renters here spend a manageable share of their income on housing. With a median household income of $72,927—nearly matching the national median of $74,755—the county offers reasonable affordability for wage earners.
Middle of the Ohio affordability pack
Pickaway's 15.9% rent-to-income ratio ranks near the state average of 15.6%, positioning it squarely in Ohio's middle tier for housing affordability. The county's median rent of $965 exceeds Ohio's state average of $873, reflecting its slightly tighter rental market.
Pricier than rural southern Ohio
Pickaway renters pay $965 monthly, notably more than Pike County ($833) and Ross County ($858), but less than Portage County ($1,036). Compared to neighboring Preble County's $803 rent, Pickaway's rental market commands a $162 monthly premium.
Rent and mortgages split the budget
Pickaway households spend $965 on rent or $1,157 on mortgage payments while earning a median $72,927 annually. That means renters allocate 15.9% of income to rent alone, while homebuyers commit 19% to monthly ownership costs—both manageable by national standards.
Solid middle ground for Ohio movers
Pickaway offers balanced housing costs with above-state-average income levels, making it attractive for professionals seeking affordable Ohio living without sacrificing wages. If you're comparing counties, Pickaway's affordability rivals Portage but undercuts the premium of larger urban areas.
Cost of Living Advisory: Pickaway County
Affordability Verdict
Pickaway County is affordable for renters, with a median gross rent of $965/month representing approximately 15.9% of median household income. The rent burden (GRAPI) stands at 27.0%.
Rent vs. Own
At $965/month rent versus $1,157/month in owner costs, renting is roughly $192/month cheaper — a 17% difference.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $38,600/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $49,586/year. With a median household income of $72,927, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 27.0% of renter households in Pickaway County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Compared to Geauga County where rent averages $1,018/month, Pickaway County is approximately 5% less expensive.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Pickaway County
Rent Burden
15.9%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,702
per month
Owner Cost Burden
19.0%
of gross income
The median home in Pickaway County may be a stretch
Median home value is $235,700. Estimated monthly cost: $1,882 vs. your max of $1,702.
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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