Ohio, known for its diverse landscapes and Midwestern charm, offers a unique blend of affordability and opportunities. Let’s explore key aspects of life in the Buckeye State.
Cost of Living
Ohio boasts a cost of living that’s 8% lower than the national average:
- Housing costs are 22% lower than the national average
- Utilities are 3% lower
- Food costs are 2% lower
- Healthcare is 5% lower
- Transportation costs are 6% higher
This affordability makes Ohio an attractive option for many residents, with cities like Columbus and Cleveland offering costs of living 8% below the national average.
Housing Market
The Ohio housing market remains relatively affordable:
- Median home value: $238,700 (as of April 2024)
- Year-over-year increase: 4.7%
- Average time on market: 32 days
While prices have risen, they remain significantly below the national median, making homeownership more attainable for many Ohioans.
Education
Ohio’s education system shows both strengths and areas for improvement:
- Ranked 27th in education according to U.S. News & World Report
- Nearly 90% of school districts met state expectations for performance in 2024
- Overall graduation rates are the highest in more than a decade, with 87.9% of the 2023 student cohort graduating within four years
The state continues to work on enhancing its education system, with a focus on improving literacy and math proficiency.
Healthcare
Healthcare in Ohio presents a mixed picture:
- Ranked 35th in overall healthcare quality and access
- Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center ranked as the top hospital in Ohio for 2024-2025
- Nationally ranked in eight medical specialties
While there’s room for improvement, Ohio boasts some top-tier medical facilities and specialties.
Transportation and Infrastructure
Ohio’s infrastructure received mixed reviews:
- Ranked 30th in infrastructure according to U.S. News & World Report
- Ranked 17th in overall highway performance and cost-effectiveness
- Commuters spend 22.6 hours stuck in traffic congestion annually
The state has made efforts to improve its infrastructure, with significant investments in road and bridge maintenance.
In conclusion, Ohio in 2024 offers a compelling mix of affordability and quality of life. While challenges exist in areas such as healthcare and infrastructure, the state’s low cost of living, improving education system, and ongoing investments make it an attractive option for those seeking a balance between affordability and opportunity in the heart of America.
Citations:
[1] https://www.rentcafe.com/cost-of-living-calculator/us/oh/
[2] https://innago.com/ohio-housing-market-trends-forecast/
[3] https://spectrumnews1.com/oh/columbus/news/2024/09/13/ohio-2024-school-report-cards-released-
[4] https://www.usnews.com/news/best-states/ohio
[5] https://reason.org/policy-study/27th-annual-highway-report/ohio/
[6] https://www.jobsohio.com/news-press/ohio-tops-nation-for-infrastructure-and-economic-development-investment
[7] https://www.unbiased.com/discover/banking/what-is-the-cost-of-living-in-ohio
[8] https://www.hondros.com/resources/blog/2024-ohio-housing-market-crash-predictions/
[9] https://education.ohio.gov/Media/Ed-Connection/Sept-17-2024/School-Report-Cards-Released
[10] https://wexnermedical.osu.edu/mediaroom/pressreleaselisting/usnwr-best-hospitals-2024-2025
