Cost of Living in Bellefontaine, OH

With a cost of living index of 71, Bellefontaine, OH is one of the most affordable cities in the country. Living here is 29% cheaper than the national average and 7% below the Ohio state average of 78. Bellefontaine is a smaller community of 14,051 residents, where everyday costs can differ substantially from nearby larger cities.

Housing costs are the biggest factor in Bellefontaine's cost of living. The median monthly rent is $836 (37% below the US median of $1,319), and the median home value sits at $163,500 (46% below the national median of $304,900). At current prices, the median home costs roughly 2.7x the median household income — well within traditional affordability guidelines.

The median household income in Bellefontaine is $60,296, which is 20% lower than the national median of $75,149. Residents spend roughly 17% of household income on rent. This is a comfortable ratio, well below the 30% threshold that financial experts recommend as a maximum. Lower incomes here are balanced by the significantly lower cost of living, stretching each dollar further.

Climate is another factor for anyone considering a move to Bellefontaine. The area sees an average annual temperature of 51.4°F, with summers averaging 72°F and winters around 30°F. Annual rainfall totals 35.8 inches spread over roughly 139 days.

Data sources: US Census Bureau (ACS 2023), Zillow Home Values, HUD Fair Market Rents, BEA Regional Price Parities, BLS Average Prices, and NOAA Climate Normals. Updated monthly.