Dayton, OH

Very Low · 50

Ohio · Population 136,741 · Updated March 2026

$866
Median Rent / Month
$43,454
Median Income
$93,200
Median Home Value
$833
Owner Costs / Month

Affordability

How far your income goes in Dayton

23.9%
Rent-to-Income Ratio
Affordable
Rent takes less than 25% of median income — considered affordable by HUD standards.

Tax Burden in Ohio

State-level tax rates that affect your costs

3.5%
Income Tax (Top Rate)
5.75%
Sales Tax
1.53%
Property Tax Rate

Estimated Annual Costs

$10,392
Annual Rent
$1,521
State Income Tax
$1,426
Property Tax (est.)

Cost of Living Overview

Dayton is significantly cheaper than the national average, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious individuals and families. With a cost index of 50 (where 100 equals the national median), Dayton residents can expect to pay median rent of $866/month while earning a median household income of $43,454/year.

The median home value in Dayton, OH is $93,200, with typical monthly owner costs around $833 including mortgage, insurance, and taxes. The median rent-to-income ratio of 23.9% means housing is relatively affordable here — well below the 30% threshold that HUD considers cost-burdened.

Ohio has a moderate income tax rate of 3.5%. Combined with a 5.75% sales tax rate and 1.53% effective property tax rate, the overall tax environment is a factor in the total cost of living in Dayton.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about living costs in Dayton

What is the cost of living in Dayton, OH?
The cost of living index in Dayton, OH is 50 (US average = 100). Median monthly rent is $866, median household income is $43,454/year, and the median home value is $93,200.
Is Dayton, OH affordable?
Yes, Dayton is more affordable than the national average with a cost index of 50. The rent-to-income ratio is 23.9%—below the 30%% threshold considered affordable by HUD.
What is the average rent in Dayton, OH?
The median gross rent in Dayton, OH is $866 per month according to the US Census Bureau ACS 2023 data. Annual rent costs approximately $10,392.
What is the median household income in Dayton?
The median household income in Dayton, OH is $43,454 per year. This compares to the national median of approximately $80,000.
What are the taxes like in Ohio?
Ohio has a top income tax rate of 3.5%, a sales tax of 5.75%, and an effective property tax rate of 1.53%.

Compare Dayton With

Similar-sized cities to compare