Cost of Living in Washington County, Ohio
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Washington County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Washington County ranks #1,613 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 49%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Washington County, Ohio
Washington County slightly outpaces national squeeze
At 16.2% of household income devoted to rent, Washington County sits just above Ohio's state average of 15.6% but still below the 30% affordability ceiling. Residents earning $61,355 manage $828 monthly rent, though the ratio creeps closer to affordability strain than neighbors.
Mid-pack affordability in eastern Ohio
Washington County's 16.2% rent-to-income ratio ranks slightly tighter than Ohio's 15.6% average, placing it among the state's less affordable counties. At $828 monthly rent—$45 above the state median—this southeast county feels the pinch more acutely than its northwest counterparts.
Pricier than most, but modest compared to Warren
Washington's $828 rent exceeds Van Wert ($792) and Vinton ($663) but remains far below Warren's $1,293, positioning it as moderate within this region. Home values of $174,100 reflect this middle-ground status between affordable rural counties and premium southwestern markets.
Tighter squeeze on modest incomes
Households earning $61,355 annually spend $828 on rent or $734 on mortgage payments, dedicating 16.2% to housing—the highest ratio in this comparison. This leaves somewhat less discretionary income than counties like Van Wert or Wyandot, making housing costs feel more consequential.
Washington works if incomes stay steady
Relocating to Washington County requires careful budget planning; its 16.2% housing ratio offers less cushion than other options here. Compare your current housing burden against 16.2%—you may find the trade-off worth it for Ohio's scenic Appalachian region.
Cost of Living Advisory: Washington County
Affordability Verdict
Housing in Washington County is affordable. The median rent is $828/month against a median household income of $61,355, putting rent at 16.2% of income.
Rent vs. Own
Renters in Washington County pay $828/month on average, compared to $734/month for homeowners. This market favors buyers by about 11%.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $33,120/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $31,457/year. With a median household income of $61,355, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 30.0% of renter households in Washington County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Compared to Mahoning County where rent averages $775/month, Washington County is approximately 7% more expensive.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Washington County
Rent Burden
16.2%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,432
per month
Owner Cost Burden
14.4%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Washington County
Median home value is $174,100. Estimated monthly cost: $1,390 vs. your max of $1,432.
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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