Cost of Living in Mount Vernon, OH

With a cost of living index of 74, Mount Vernon, OH is one of the most affordable cities in the country. Living here is 26% cheaper than the national average and 4% below the Ohio state average of 78. Mount Vernon is a smaller community of 16,802 residents, where everyday costs can differ substantially from nearby larger cities.

Housing costs are the biggest factor in Mount Vernon's cost of living. The median monthly rent is $909 (31% below the US median of $1,319), and the median home value sits at $161,400 (47% below the national median of $304,900). At current prices, the median home costs roughly 3x the median household income — well within traditional affordability guidelines.

The median household income in Mount Vernon is $54,335, which is 28% lower than the national median of $75,149. Residents spend roughly 20% 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 Mount Vernon. The area sees an average annual temperature of 53.2°F, with summers averaging 73°F and winters around 32°F. Annual rainfall totals 38.8 inches spread over roughly 146 days.

Everyday prices in the Columbus, 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.