Ohio · Population 136,741 · Updated March 2026
How far your income goes in Dayton
State-level tax rates that affect your costs
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.
Common questions about living costs in Dayton
Compare the cost of living in Dayton, OH with 299 other major U.S. cities