Cost of Living in Cleveland, OH

With a cost of living index of 67, Cleveland, OH is one of the most affordable cities in the country. Living here is 33% cheaper than the national average and 10% below the Ohio state average of 78. As a major city with a population of 367,523, Cleveland offers a wide range of housing options, employment opportunities, and urban amenities.

Housing costs are the biggest factor in Cleveland's cost of living. The median monthly rent is $894 (32% below the US median of $1,319), and the median home value sits at $94,100 (69% below the national median of $304,900). At current prices, the median home costs roughly 2.4x the median household income — well within traditional affordability guidelines.

The median household income in Cleveland is $39,187, which is 48% lower than the national median of $75,149. Residents spend roughly 27% of household income on rent. This is near the 30% threshold that financial experts generally consider the upper limit of affordability. 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 Cleveland. The area sees an average annual temperature of 52.3°F, with summers averaging 73°F and winters around 32°F. Annual rainfall totals 33.3 inches spread over roughly 138 days.

Everyday prices in the Cleveland, OH (Metropolitan Statistical Area) metro area are generally below the national average. Out of 6 common items tracked by the Bureau of Labor Statistics, 6 are priced lower than the US average. These real-world prices — from groceries to electricity — add up and should be factored into any cost of living comparison.

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.