Cheapest Cities to Rent in Ohio (2026)
The cheapest rent in Ohio is in Cleveland, OH, where a 2-bedroom averages $1,233/mo and a 1-bedroom $940/mo (2026 HUD Fair Market Rent) — $79/mo below the Ohio average 2BR of $1,312. The table below ranks all 3 of the cheapest cities to rent in Ohio.
Top 3 Cheapest Cities in Ohio
Ranked by 2-bedroom rent price (lowest first)
| Rank | City | Studio | 1 Bed | 2 Bed | 3 Bed | Income Needed |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
#1 | Cleveland, OH | $850 | $940 | $1,233 | $1,584 | $49,320/yr |
#2 | Dayton, OH | $928 | $1,009 | $1,273 | $1,651 | $50,920/yr |
#3 | Columbus, OH | $1,111 | $1,194 | $1,430 | $1,715 | $57,200/yr |
Why These Ohio Cities Are Affordable
Ohio ranks as highly affordable for renters. Columbus offers excellent value for a growing metro, while Cleveland, Cincinnati, and smaller cities provide some of the nation's lowest major-metro rents.
- Below-average housing costs: These cities have housing indices lower than the state average of 75
- Lower demand: Smaller populations and less competitive markets keep prices reasonable
- Diverse housing stock: Mix of older and newer buildings provides options at various price points
- Regional economies: Local job markets support working populations without coastal-city premiums
Income Requirements
Using the standard 30% of income guideline, here's what you need to earn to afford rent in Ohio's cheapest cities:
How Ohio's Cheapest Cities Compare
What to Consider Before Moving
Best For
- ✓Budget-conscious renters
- ✓Healthcare workers
- ✓Those seeking urban amenities at low cost
- ✓Sports fans
Considerations
- •Cold winters
- •Lake effect snow (Cleveland)
- •Some areas face economic decline
Cheapest Rent in Ohio: FAQ
Where is the cheapest rent in Ohio?
The cheapest rent in Ohio is in Cleveland, OH, where a 2-bedroom averages $1,233/month and a 1-bedroom $940/month in 2026 (HUD Fair Market Rent). Next cheapest: Dayton ($1,273), Columbus ($1,430).
How much can I save renting in Ohio's cheapest cities?
By choosing Ohio's cheapest city over the state average 2BR of $1,312, you could save $79/month or $948/year on rent.
Is rent in Ohio's cheapest city below the US average?
Yes. A 2-bedroom in Cleveland costs $1,233/month, which is $340/month below the US median 2BR Fair Market Rent of $1,573 (HUD, 2026).
What income do I need to rent in Ohio's cheapest cities?
To afford the cheapest 2BR in Ohio at $1,233/month, you need approximately $49,320/year based on the 30% of income guideline.