If you are thinking of buying a home and have the luxury of shopping for one anywhere in the country, you should consider Ohio. From a cost of living and affordability standpoint, OH is a very attractive state, whether you are shopping for a starter home, your next home, or your dream home. Let’s check out some reasons to buy a home in OH in 2026.
- Low cost of living. First of all, Ohio has a low cost of living overall. Sperling’s Best Places reports that the cost of living in OH is 17.3% lower than the US average. Consumer Affairs states that Ohio has one of the lowest costs of living anywhere nationwide. At a time when we are seeing inflation making it hard for a lot of people to afford the basic necessities of life, it is more beneficial than ever to live in a place where housing, utilities, and goods and services are relatively affordable. Buying a home in Ohio can help you to keep your finances stable and flexible. You may be able to save and invest more money each month than you would living in another state.
- Housing inventory and affordability. Housing inventory in Ohio has been increasing. NBC 4i reported in October 2025 that homes for sale in Columbus and Central Ohio peaked to the highest point in six years. The data came from Columbus Realtors. Katie Millard at NBC 4i wrote, “With 4,804 homes for sale, the inventory reached a two-month supply for the first time since August 2018. A two-month supply of housing means it would take two months for all homes on the market to sell at the current rate.” This is a big deal. Much of the US is facing a crisis right now where there is not enough affordable housing to go around. One of the main reasons for that crisis is a shortage in inventory. The increased inventory in Ohio means that prices for homes in this area are not as steep as they are in other more competitive markets. It also gives homebuyers a larger variety of choices, making it more likely that each can find their dream home.
- Exciting place to live and work. One more reason to think about buying a home in OH is that you will be living in a state where there are lots of professional opportunities. There is also plenty to see and do during your time off. In Cleveland, for example, you could visit the Cleveland Botanical Garden, the Cleveland Museum of Art, or West Side Market. You can also cheer for the Cleveland Cavaliers, the Cleveland Browns, or the Cleveland Guardians. In Columbus, you can visit the Short North Arts District, the German Village & Brewery District, the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, or the Columbus Museum of Art. For outdoors lovers, Ohio also offers appealing attractions in nature, like Hocking Hills State Park and Cuyahoga Valley National Park. While you are at it, you can book a train ride on the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad. Travelers looking to save may travel within the state of Ohio, or even visit from other states. So, there are also opportunities to supplement your income in OH by investing in rental properties. Another option would be to buy a home as your primary residence, and then invest in an ADU for short term rentals, if your property is zoned for it.
Buy a Home in Columbus or Beyond
In 2026, Ohio is one of the most affordable places in the US to buy a home and build a future. We are based in Columbus, and can help you buy a home or refinance anywhere in Ohio. To get started, please give us a call at (614) 505-0620 to schedule your consultation. We look forward to connecting you with a suitable home loan.
