Cincinnati vs Cleveland: cost of living compared
Cleveland is 7% cheaper than Cincinnati overall.
Indexes use a US average of 100: below 100 is cheaper than the national average. Housing and transportation are derived from median home prices, rents and commute times; figures come from BLS, Census ACS, Numbeo and the MIT Living Wage Calculator.
The big picture
Comparing the overall cost of living, Cleveland is generally more affordable than Cincinnati. This difference is largely driven by housing expenses, which are noticeably lower in Cleveland. Other categories like transportation, food, and healthcare also contribute to Cleveland's slightly more economical profile, though utilities are roughly similar in both cities. Miscellaneous goods and services also tend to be less expensive in Cleveland, reinforcing its position as the more budget-friendly option for residents.
Housing
Housing costs present a significant difference between the two cities. Both buying and renting are more affordable in Cleveland, with median home prices and typical one-bedroom rents being substantially lower than in Cincinnati. While both metros feature a mix of housing styles, Cleveland's housing market offers a more accessible entry point for ownership and renting. Property taxes and insurance costs, which vary by specific location, should be considered alongside purchase prices in both areas.
Taxes and everyday costs
Daily expenses for transportation, food, and healthcare are somewhat lower in Cleveland compared to Cincinnati, though the differences are not dramatic. Utilities, including electricity and natural gas, are quite similar in both metros. Ohio's state income tax structure is comparable for both cities, meaning this particular cost factor does not create a significant divergence in take-home pay. Overall, routine spending on goods and services tends to be more economical in Cleveland.
Lifestyle trade-offs
Both cities offer a distinct Midwestern lifestyle. Cincinnati, nestled in a more hilly, riverine landscape, often feels a bit more spread out, while Cleveland, situated on a Great Lake, has a more pronounced industrial heritage and a distinct waterfront character. Commute times are roughly similar in both metros. Cincinnati typically experiences a slightly milder climate due to its southern location, while Cleveland is known for more significant lake-effect snow during winter months.
Bottom line
For households weighing a move, Cleveland generally offers a more favorable financial outlook due to its lower overall cost of living. The most substantial savings potential lies in housing, whether buying a home or renting. While many other daily expenses are also somewhat cheaper in Cleveland, the difference is less pronounced. Ultimately, a move to Cleveland could mean a noticeable reduction in monthly expenditures, particularly for those prioritizing housing affordability.
| Measure | Cincinnati, OH | Cleveland, OH |
|---|---|---|
| Overall cost of living (US avg = 100) | 88 | 82 |
| Housing index | 66 | 57 |
| Transportation index | 92 | 91 |
| Food index | 92 | 90 |
| Healthcare index | 95 | 92 |
| Utilities index | 98 | 98 |
| Misc index | 88 | 82 |
| Median home price | $228,000 | $188,000 |
| Median 1-bedroom rent | $1,050/mo | $950/mo |
| Average commute | 26 min | 26 min |
Compare any two metros with the free cost of living tool, or see the true monthly cost of a specific Cleveland home with the True Cost Calculator.