Cost of Living in Union County, Ohio
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Union County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Union County ranks #1,644 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 48%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Union County, Ohio
Union County's wealth shields renters
Union County renters spend just 13.0% of household income on housing—the lowest ratio among these eight counties and well below both Ohio's 15.6% state average and the national benchmark. With median household income of $109,506, residents earn 46% above the national median, creating exceptional affordability despite premium rents.
Ohio's most affordable county for renters
Union's 13.0% rent-to-income ratio ranks it among Ohio's best housing markets, despite commanding the state's highest rents at $1,188/month. High household income, not cheap housing, drives this advantage—a hallmark of wealthy suburban communities north of Columbus.
Union dominates its wealth class
Union's $1,188 median rent and $109,506 median income dwarf every surrounding county—it's a different housing market entirely from neighboring Shelby ($904 rent, $72,822 income). This gap reflects Union's identity as a wealthy exurban community attracting affluent families escaping Columbus's intensity.
Premium housing, premium paychecks
Renters earn $9,126/month and spend $1,188 on housing—13.0% of gross income—leaving substantial resources for savings and lifestyle. Homeowners invest $1,598/month in properties worth $306,600, commanding Ohio's highest home values but affordable only to those earning $100,000+ annually.
Union County for affluent relocators
If your household earns $100,000+ and you value top-rated schools, newer suburban development, and minimal financial stress, Union's premium pricing reflects genuine quality and market demand. Those earning under $80,000 should look south to Shelby or Scioto, where housing dollars stretch far further.
Cost of Living Advisory: Union County
Affordability Verdict
Union County is affordable for renters, with a median gross rent of $1,188/month representing approximately 13.0% of median household income. The rent burden (GRAPI) stands at 23.0%.
Rent vs. Own
At $1,188/month rent versus $1,598/month in owner costs, renting is roughly $410/month cheaper — a 26% difference.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $47,520/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $68,486/year. With a median household income of $109,506, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 23.0% of renter households in Union County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Within Ohio, Union County is more affordable than Fairfield County by roughly 7% ($1,188/mo vs $1,114/mo).
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Union County
Rent Burden
13.0%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$2,555
per month
Owner Cost Burden
17.5%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Union County
Median home value is $306,600. Estimated monthly cost: $2,448 vs. your max of $2,555.
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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