The Best Places to Live in Ohio for Retirement

The Best Places to Live in Ohio for Retirement

· Filed Under:Retirement
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Are you picturing your perfect retirement? Does it include trading in your alarm clock for morning walks, swapping spreadsheets for time with grandkids, and having more freedom to fish, golf, or exercise? If that sounds like you, and you’re a retiree or soon-to-be retiree, you might want to learn about the best places to live in Ohio for retirement.

Now that you don’t have to live close to your job, you can decide whether to retire where you are or move. Maybe you enjoy the supportive environment of cozy small town life, where neighbors feel like family and life is slower-paced. Or you might love city living, with major sports teams, art museums, and a diverse food scene. Fortunately, Ohio has a wide range of lifestyle options, and this article will help you discover them.

At Stage Ready Financial Planning, most of our clients live in the Dayton area and surrounding southwest Ohio communities. We understand what’s important to you – things like: 

  • Living in an attractive and safe environment
  • Having access to quality healthcare
  • Being close to family and friends
  • Having amenities like local restaurants and shopping
  • Potentially minimizing your taxes, housing costs, and healthcare costs
  • And more…

In this blog post, we’ll explore some of the best places to live in Ohio for retirement, keeping some of these priorities front and center. 

Key Takeaways

  • Ohio Offers Many Options: From vibrant cities to charming small towns, Ohio has a variety of retirement lifestyle options.
  • Affordability is a Major Plus: Compared to the national average, Ohio generally offers a lower cost of living, allowing your retirement income to stretch further.
  • Careful Planning is Important: Whether you prioritize urban excitement or a peaceful small town, financial preparation and healthcare access are important factors for a fulfilling retirement in Ohio.

What Makes Ohio a Great State for Retirees?

For many retirees, Ohio has a lot to offer and we’ve actually written about this in more detail. Check out our blog, “Pros & Cons of Retiring in Ohio.”  To give you a quick overview, here are a few highlights:

  • Affordability: Compared to the national average, a recent Forbes study suggests that Ohio boasts an 8-12% lower cost of living. The study claims that the median home price in Ohio is around $235,000 compared to the national average of $412,000. This means your fixed income like your Social Security benefits can go further. 
  • Midwestern Charm: Ohio is known for its down-to-earth friendliness and strong sense of community. Both its small towns and larger cities offer a supportive environment for many retirees.
  • Rich Culture: From the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame to vibrant arts scenes in cities like Cincinnati, Cleveland, and Columbus, there’s always something to do. Ohio has two of the top orchestras in the United States and eight major professional sports teams. 
  • Natural Beauty: Whether you enjoy hiking trails with water falls, boating and relaxing by Lake Erie, or exploring state parks, Ohio has plenty of outdoor attractions. Most of Ohio’s major cities feature water access including major rivers or lakes. 
  • Access to Healthcare: Ohio has a few excellent healthcare systems including the world renown Cleveland Clinic and the Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center. According to Forbes, the Buckeye State ranks extremely high for accessible healthcare options. 

What Are the Best Places to Live in Ohio for Retirement?

Infographic Map of Ohio with Retirement Destinations Marked

Choosing the “best” place is subjective and depends on what you’re looking for. But here are some of Ohio’s top spots that consistently rank high for retirees seeking a great quality of life, organized by region.

This list is not exhaustive and focuses on areas with excellent amenities rather than having just a low cost of living. It’s important to conduct your own research to find the perfect fit.

*Property tax calculations are estimates based on sample listings and generally reflect 2023 rates. In Ohio, property taxes are assessed on 35% of a property’s appraised value. 

The Cincinnati Region

Infographic of Cincinnati Ohio

Why it’s great for retirees:

  • Cincinnati offers a mix of big-city amenities and a small-town feel in its neighborhoods.
  • Strong arts, culture, and sports scene (Cincinnati Art Museum, Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra, Taft Museum of Art, Cincinnati Reds, Cincinnati Bengals, FC Cincinnati).
  • Beautiful parks, green spaces, hill covered landscape (Eden Park, Ault Park, Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden, Krohn Conservatory).
  • A thriving dining scene (Over-The-Rhine, Downtown, and Clifton).
  • Access to excellent healthcare (Christ Hospital, UC Medical Center).

Things to consider:

  • Housing tends to be more expensive than rural and smaller Ohio cities. Zillow reports that the average home value in Cincinnati is $242,229 compared to $234,906 for Ohio as a whole.
  • Traffic can be congested on I-75 and I-71 when entering Cincinnati. Intersecting roads such as Ohio SR 562 (Norwood Lateral) and the I-275 loop also experience rush hour congestion. 

If you are looking to be close to the city:

Hyde Park
  • Retirement Lifestyle:
    • Upscale neighborhood with beautiful homes and tree-lined streets.
    • Close to boutique shops and fine dining (E&O Kitchen, Al-Posto Italian Ristorante).
    • Safe and walkable with a vibrant atmosphere.
  • Important Considerations:
    • Hyde Park is one of Cincinnati’s more expensive areas.
    • Many homes are close together and traffic can be congested.
  • By The Numbers:
    • 2025 Average Home Value: $552,239 (Zillow)
    • Approximate Property Tax Rate: Varies, Linked Example Features 2.1% of Appraised Value (Hyde Park Example)*
    • City/Municipal Income Tax (Applies if you work in retirement): 1.8% (Cincinnati)
Mount Adams
  • Retirement Lifestyle:
    • Offers great views of the Cincinnati skyline and the Ohio River.
    • Historic charm and a lively arts scene (Cincinnati Arts Museum).
    • Close to Eden Park for outdoor recreation.
    • One of the lowest crime rates in Cincinnati.
  • Important Considerations:
    • Mount Adams is also one of Cincinnati’s most expensive areas.
    • Hilly terrain may be challenging for retirees with mobility issues.
    • Parking can be difficult.
  • By The Numbers:
    • 2025 Average Home Value: $533,849 (Zillow) 
    • Approximate Property Tax Rate: Varies, Linked Example Features 2.4% of Appraised Value (Mt. Adams Example)*
    • City/Municipal Income Tax (Applies if you work in retirement): 1.8% (Cincinnati)
Oakley
  • Retirement Lifestyle:
    • A revitalized neighborhood with a mix of historic homes and new developments very close to Hyde Park.
    • Trendy shops, restaurants, and entertainment spots (MadTree Brewing, Oakley Greens).
    • Walkable and bike-friendly.
  • Important Considerations:
    • Oakley can be a bit younger and more energetic, which may not appeal to you depending on your retirement age.
  • By The Numbers:
    • 2025 Average Home Value: $402,733 (Zillow) 
    • Approximate Property Tax Rate: Varies, Linked Example Features 2.2% of Appraised Value (Oakley Example)*
    • City/Municipal Income Tax (Applies if you work in retirement): 1.8% (Cincinnati)

If you are looking for a small town or peaceful suburb:

Oxford
  • Retirement Lifestyle:
    • Home to the beautiful and historic campus of Miami University.
    • Charming small town restaurants and campus stores (Kofenya, Steinkeller).
    • Safe and walkable with historic architecture.
  • Important Considerations:
    • Traffic and activity are affected by Miami University’s academic calendar.
    • Higher income tax rate than Cincinnati proper.
  • By The Numbers:
    • 2025 Average Home Value: $320,271 (Zillow) 
    • Approximate Property Tax Rate: Varies, Linked Example Features 1.1% of Appraised Value (Oxford Example)*
    • City/Municipal Income Tax (Applies if you work in retirement): 2.00% (Oxford)
Blue Ash
  • Retirement Lifestyle:
    • Blue Ash is a well-maintained suburb located farther from downtown Cincinnati.
    • Convenient access to shopping and dining (Sleepy Bee Cafe, Kenwood Towne Center).
    • Lower income taxes than Cincinnati proper.
  • Important Considerations:
    • Is a well maintained suburb a bit farther from downtown Cincinnati.
  • By The Numbers:
    • 2025 Average Home Value: $436,654 (Zillow) 
    • Approximate Property Tax Rate: Varies, Linked Example Features 1.54% of Appraised Value (Blue Ash Example)*
    • City/Municipal Income Tax (Applies if you work in retirement): 1.25% (Blue Ash)
Wyoming
  • Retirement Lifestyle:
    • Historic suburb with beautiful architecture.
    • Strong sense of community and excellent schools for your grandkids (Ranked 12th in Ohio).
    • Lower income tax rate than Cincinnati proper. 
  • Important Considerations:
    • Housing in Wyoming can be pretty expensive.
  • By The Numbers:
    • 2025 Average Home Value: $472,056 (Zillow) 
    • Approximate Property Tax Rate: Varies, Linked Example Features 1.9% of Appraised Value (Wyoming Example)*
    • City/Municipal Income tax (Applies if you work in retirement): 1.0% (Wyoming)

The Dayton Region

Infographic of Dayton Ohio

Why it’s great for retirees:

  • Dayton has an extremely affordable cost of living and is recognized as one of the top cities for retirement affordability. This is a great town for retirement if you want to make more of your Social Security benefits. 
  • Rich in aviation history (National Museum of the U.S. Air Force, WPAFB, Home of the Wright Brothers).
  • No major traffic issues, with easy access to downtown and suburbs from I-75, I-35, and I-675.
  • Growing food and craft beer scene (Sueno DYT, Warped Wing Brewing, Meadowlark).
  • Close-knit community with community events (Dayton Dragons Minor League Baseball, Dayton Live Broadway Series, Dayton Philharmonic Orchestra). 
  • The home of Stage Ready Financial Planning!

Things to consider:

  • Dayton is a recovering rust-belt city with many transitional areas near downtown.
  • It may not have as many big-city amenities as larger cities.

If you are looking to be close to the city:

The Oregon District
  • Retirement Lifestyle:
    • Historic district with adorable architecture in the heart of downtown.
    • Walkable with unique shops and restaurants (Salar, Lily’s Bistro, Thai 9).
    • Offers a more urban and vibrant lifestyle.
  • Important Considerations:
    • The Oregon District can be noisy and crowded, especially at night and on weekends.
    • Parking can be challenging at times and driving on the historic brick roads can be rough.
  • By The Numbers:
    • 2025 Average Home Value: Varies, can reflect or exceed Dayton average.
    • Approximate Property Tax Rate: Varies, Linked Example Features 2.3% of Appraised Value (Oregon District Example)*
    • City/Municipal Income Tax (Applies if you work in retirement): 2.5% (Dayton)
St. Anne’s Hill Historic District
  • Retirement Lifestyle:
    • Historic architecture with Victorian-era homes.
    • Quiet and residential neighborhood on the edge of the city.
    • A few cute restaurants have popped up in recent years (Fifth Street Brewpub, Coming Soon – Adelaide’s Wholesome Baked)
  • Important Considerations:
    • Fewer amenities within immediate walking distance compared to the Oregon District.
  • By The Numbers:
    • 2025 Average Home Value: Varies, can reflect or exceed Dayton average.
    • Approximate Property Tax Rate: Varies,Linked Example Features 2.0% of Appraised Value (St. Anne’s Hill Example)*
    • City/Municipal Income Tax (Applies if you work in retirement): 2.5% (Dayton)
Oakwood
  • Retirement Lifestyle:
    • Oakwood is an affluent, historic suburb known for its beautiful homes and tree-lined streets
    • It offers a safe, quiet atmosphere with well-maintained property values.
    • Oakwood has a top-rated school district in Dayton and is among the top 10 in Ohio, which is great for your grandkids who live close by.
    • Cute downtown strip of stores and restaurants (Oakwood Club, Dorothy Lane Market, Graeters Ice Cream).
  • Important Considerations:
    • Oakwood is one of the more expensive areas in the Dayton region in terms of property values and taxes.
  • By The Numbers:
    • 2025 Average Home Value: $384,861 (Zillow) 
    • Approximate Property Tax Rate: Varies, Linked Example Features 2.6% of Appraised Value (Oakwood Example)*
    • City/Municipal Income Tax (Applies if you work in retirement): 2.50% (Oakwood)

If you are looking for a small town or peaceful suburb:

Bellbrook
  • Retirement Lifestyle:
    • Bellbrook has a rural, small-town feel with a scenic, wooded landscape.
    • Residents enjoy access to a few different metroparks and river activities (Sugarcreek Reserve, Little Miami River).
    • Bellbrook is a tight knit community with no city income tax.
    • Safe and peaceful with highly rated schools.
  • Important Considerations:
    • There are fewer restaurants and shopping options compared to larger neighboring suburbs such as Centerville or Beavercreek.
    • Bellbrook is not ideal for those who prefer to walk to restaurants and stores.
  • By The Numbers:
    • 2025 Average Home Value: $305,835 (Zillow) 
    • Approximate Property Tax Rate: Varies, Linked Example Features 2.0% of Appraised Value (Bellbrook Example)*
    • City/Municipal Income Tax (Applies if you work in retirement): 0% 
Centerville
  • Retirement Lifestyle:
    • Centerville offers a charming atmosphere, particularly in its downtown area, with well-preserved architecture dating back to the 1800s.
    • The Uptown Centerville project is adding interesting local stores and restaurants to the downtown area (Meridien Uptown, Manna, Agave & Rye, The Brunch Pub).
    • Centerville has a tight-knit community, a strong school district, and a vibrant July 4th celebration (Americana Festival).
    • The city is consistently recognized for its safety and access to high-quality healthcare (Premier Health Miami Valley South Hospital, Southview Medical Center).
  • Important Considerations:
    • Housing costs in Centerville tend to be higher compared to the Dayton average but still below the national average.
    • While Uptown Centerville offers a range of amenities, it may not provide the same level of urban excitement as downtown Dayton.
  • By The Numbers:
    • 2025 Average Home Value: $293,400 (Zillow)
    • Approximate Property Tax Rate: Varies, Linked Example Features 1.90% of Appraised Value (Centerville Example)*
    • City/Municipal Income Tax (Applies if you work in retirement): 2.25% (Centerville)
Yellow Springs
  • Retirement Lifestyle:
    • Yellow Springs is an adorable small town with a progressive, artsy atmosphere.
    • It boasts a beautiful natural setting with hiking trails (Glen Helen Nature Preserve, John Bryan State Park).
    • Yellow Springs is safe and walkable, with unique local shops and restaurants (The Winds Cafe, Dave Chappelle’s YS Firehouse).
  • Important Considerations:
    • Real estate in Yellow Springs tends to be more expensive than in other small Dayton suburbs.
    • The village’s political culture may not align with everyone’s values.
  • By The Numbers:
    • 2025 Average Home Value: $360,904 (Zillow) 
    • Approximate Property Tax Rate: Varies, Linked Example Features 2% of Appraised Value (Yellow Springs Example)*
    • City/Municipal Income Tax (Applies if you work in retirement): 1.50% (Yellow Springs)

The Columbus Region

Infographic of Columbus Ohio

Why it’s great for retirees:

  • Columbus is the vibrant capital city of Ohio.
  • It has a great sports environment (The Ohio State University, Columbus Crew FC, Columbus Bluejackets).
  • The city has a growing downtown culture with great shopping and restaurants (Short North Arts District, Pins Mechanical, Butcher & Rose).
  • Columbus offers close proximity to world-class healthcare (Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center).
  • It is consistently ranked a top city in the USA and the midwest. 

Things to consider:

  • Columbus can be more expensive than smaller Ohio cities such as Dayton, Toledo, and Youngstown, though it’s still below the national average.
  • Downtown traffic and parking can be difficult.

If you are looking to be close to the city:

Short North Arts District
  • Retirement Lifestyle:
    • The Short North Arts District is a trendy urban area with boutiques and local restaurants (The Pearl, Bakersfield Short North, Brassica).
    • It features a walkable and lively atmosphere.
    • Close to downtown Columbus.
  • Important Considerations:
    • It can be noisy and crowded, especially on weekends.
    • Parking can be challenging.
  • By The Numbers:
    • 2025 Average Home Value: Varies, but well above Columbus Average of $246,229 (Zillow)
    • Approximate Property Tax Rate: Varies, Linked Example Features 2.5% of Appraised Value (Short North Example)*
    • City/Municipal Income Tax (Applies if you work in retirement): 2.5% (Columbus)
German Village
  • Retirement Lifestyle:
    • German Village is a historic district with beautifully restored brick homes.
    • It has charming streets, parks, and local restaurants (Schmidt’s Sausage Haus, The Thurman Cafe).
    • Walkable and safe.
  • Important Considerations:
    • Homes in German Village tend to be expensive due to their historic value and proximity to downtown.
  • By The Numbers:
    • 2025 Average Home Value: $530,432 (Zillow) 
    • Approximate Property Tax Rate: Varies, Linked Example Features 1.5% of Appraised Value (German Village Example)*
    • City/Municipal Income Tax (Applies if you work in retirement): 2.5% (Columbus)
Bexley
  • Retirement Lifestyle:
    • Bexley is an affluent suburb with a strong sense of community, beautiful architecture, and proximity to downtown and Capital University.
    • It is home of the Ohio Governor’s Mansion and the home of the president of the Ohio State University.
    • Bexley is safe and walkable with a mix of local shops and restaurants (Brassica in Bexley, Scotty’s Cafe).
  • Important Considerations:
    • It features higher home prices compared to the Columbus average of $246,229.
  • By The Numbers:
    • 2025 Average Home Value: $551,184 (Zillow) 
    • Approximate Property Tax Rate: Varies, Linked Example Features 1.7% of Appraised Value (Bexley Example)*
    • City/Municipal Income Tax (Applies if you work in retirement): 2.5% (Bexley)

If you are looking for a small town or peaceful suburb:

Granville
  • Retirement Lifestyle:
    • Granville is a picturesque New England-style village with shops and restaurants (Alfie’s, Station Granville).
    • Home to Denison University.
    • It offers historic charm and well-preserved architecture in a hilly landscape setting.
  • Important Considerations:
    • Granville is more expensive than some other rural Columbus area small towns.
  • By The Numbers:
    • 2025 Average Home Value: $498,042 (Zillow) 
    • Approximate Property Tax Rate: Varies, Linked Example Features 1.5% of Appraised Value (Granville Example)*
    • City/Municipal Income Tax (Applies if you work in retirement): 1.5% (Granville)
Westerville
  • Retirement Lifestyle:
    • Westerville is a blend of historic charm and modern amenities.
    • It has an active uptown area with shops and restaurants (Northstar Cafe, Asterisk Supper Club, Utown Deli and Brew).
    • Close proximity to the well known Sharon Woods Metro Park.
  • Important Considerations:
    • Westerville can be crowded and lacks diversity.
  • By The Numbers:
    • 2025 Average Home Value: $428,867 (Zillow) 
    • Approximate Property Tax Rate: Varies, Linked Example Features 1.5% of Appraised Value (Westerville Example)*
    • City/Municipal Income Tax (Applies if you work in retirement): 2.0% (Westerville)
Dublin
  • Retirement Lifestyle:
    • Dublin is consistently ranked as one of the safest cities in Ohio.
    • It is a small town with a strong economy and is home to major corporations (Cardinal Health, Wendy’s Company, Nestle).
    • Dublin offers upscale shopping and restaurants (Hyde Park Prime Steakhouse, Mezzo, Valentina’s).
    • It is also home to the famous Muirfield Village Golf Club, designed by Jack Nicklaus.
  • Important Considerations:
    • Dublin has a higher cost of living and property taxes compared to national averages.
  • By The Numbers:
    • 2025 Average Home Value: $556,598 (Zillow) 
    • Approximate Property Tax Rate: Varies, Linked Example Features 2.0% of Appraised Value (Dublin Example)*
    • City/Municipal Income tax: 2.0% (Dublin)

The Cleveland Region

Infographic of Cleveland Ohio

Why it’s great for retirees:

  • Cleveland is a revitalizing city with a lower cost of living than many major metropolitan areas.
  • It features world-class cultural institutions (Cleveland Museum of Art, Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, The Cleveland Orchestra).
  • Cleveland has direct access to Lake Erie for boating and water activities.
  • The city offers close proximity to world-class healthcare (Cleveland Clinic, University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center).

Things to consider:

  • Winters in Cleveland can be harsh, with significant lake-effect snowfall and limited sunshine.

If you are looking to be close to the city:

Ohio City
  • Retirement Lifestyle:
    • Ohio City is a historic neighborhood with a great food scene and popular craft breweries (West Side Market, Great Lakes Brewing).
    • It’s close to downtown Cleveland and has access to public transportation.
    • Ohio City is walkable, with a mix of old and new architecture and relatively affordable housing.
  • Important Considerations:
    • Like many urban locations, it can be noisy and crowded, especially on weekends.
  • By The Numbers:
    • 2025 Average Home Value: $289,278 (Zillow) 
    • Approximate Property Tax Rate: Varies, Linked Example Features 2.6% of Appraised Value (Ohio City Example)*
    • City/Municipal Income Tax (Applies if you work in retirement): 2.5% (Cleveland)
Shaker Heights
  • Retirement Lifestyle:
    • Shaker Heights is an inner-ring suburb known for its beautiful, historic homes, including Tudor, Georgian, and Art Deco styles.
    • Retirees can enjoy convenient access to cultural amenities nearby including the Cleveland Museum of Art, Severance Hall (home of the Cleveland Orchestra), and the Cleveland Botanical Garden.  
    • The RTA Rapid Transit provides convenient access to downtown Cleveland, which is a plus for those who want to enjoy city amenities without living right in the center.
  • Important Considerations:
    • Property taxes in Shaker Heights tend to be higher than the Cleveland average, especially in the more historic and desirable neighborhoods.
  • By The Numbers:
    • 2025 Average Home Value: $334,961 (Zillow)
    • Approximate Property Tax Rate: Varies, Cuyahoga County average is around 3.99% (Shaker Heights Example)*
    • City/Municipal Income Tax (Applies if you work in retirement): 2.25% (Shaker Heights)
Tremont
  • Retirement Lifestyle:
    • Tremont is a cute historic neighborhood close to Ohio City known for its beautiful churches and Victorian-era homes.
    • It’s home to the house featured in the movie ‘A Christmas Story.’
    • Tremont offers an artsy scene with popular, trendy restaurants (Grumpy’s Cafe, Fat Cats, Roasted Tremont).
    • It’s very close to downtown Cleveland with easy highway access.
  • Important Considerations:
    • Tremont is more expensive than the average Cleveland neighborhood.
  • By The Numbers:
    • 2025 Average Home Value: $338,823 (Zillow) 
    • Approximate Property Tax Rate: Varies, Linked Example Features 2.7% of Appraised Value (Tremont Example)*
    • City/Municipal Income Tax (Applies if you work in retirement): 2.5% (Cleveland)

If you are looking for a small town or peaceful suburb:

Rocky River
  • Retirement Lifestyle:
    • Rocky River is an affluent small town west of Lakewood with beautiful parks and direct access to Lake Erie (Berea Falls)
    • It features a safe and family-friendly atmosphere.
    • Rocky River has a mix of upscale homes and condos.
  • Important Considerations:
    • Like Tremont, it is more expensive than the average Cleveland suburb.
  • By The Numbers:
    • 2025 Average Home Value: $376,388 (Zillow) 
    • Approximate Property Tax Rate: Varies, Linked Example Features 2.3% of Appraised Value (Rocky River Example)*
    • City/Municipal Income Tax (Applies if you work in retirement): 2.0% (Rocky River)
Hudson
  • Retirement Lifestyle:
    • Hudson is a historic town with a charming Main Street and a small town feel.
    • It’s close to Cuyahoga Valley National Park.
    • Hudson is known for its excellent schools and safe environment.
  • Important Considerations:
    • It’s further away from downtown Cleveland compared to the other locations mentioned above. 
    • Hudson’s housing is on the higher side of Cleveland real estate averages and the national average.
  • By The Numbers:
    • 2025 Average Home Value: $513,225 (Zillow) 
    • Approximate Property Tax Rate: Varies, Linked Example Features 1.8% of Appraised Value (Hudson Example)*
    • City/Municipal Income Tax (Applies if you work in retirement): 2.0% (Hudson)
Medina
  • Retirement Lifestyle:
    • Medina is a small town south of Cleveland and west of Akron.
    • It offers a slower pace of life and a strong sense of community.
    • Medina has affordable homes and is in close proximity to two city centers. 
  • Important Considerations:
    • It has fewer amenities compared to Cleveland or its inner suburbs.
  • By The Numbers:
    • 2025 Average Home Value: $363,152 (Zillow) 
    • Approximate Property Tax Rate: Varies, Linked Example Features 1.3% of Appraised Value (Medina Example)*
    • City/Municipal Income Tax: 1.25% (Medina)

Other Notable Ohio Locations

The following cities don’t fall neatly into the major metropolitan regions outlined above. They offer some advantages and may be a great fit for retirees who don’t live close to the major Ohio cities.

Northwest, Ohio 

Toledo
  • Retirement Lifestyle:
    • Toledo is located on the shores of Lake Erie, offering waterfront access and proximity to the University of Toledo and Bowling Green State University.
    • The city has a growing arts and entertainment scene. This includes the Toledo Museum of Art, the Toledo Zoo, and an entertainment district near the Toledo Mud Hens Minor League Baseball Stadium.
    • A recent Wallstreet Journal profile states that Toledo boasts a lower cost of housing than many other Ohio cities and the national average. This may be attractive for those on a fixed income.
  • Important Considerations:
    • Like many rust-belt cities, including Dayton and Youngstown, Toledo has faced economic challenges. However, the city is working on revitalization.
    • Its winters can be cold, grey, with lake effect snow.
  • By The Numbers:
    • 2025 Average Home Value: $123,094 (Zillow)
    • Approximate Property Tax Rate: Varies, Average in Lucas County is around 2.38% of Appraised Value
    • City/Municipal Income Tax: 2.5% (Toledo)

Southeast, Ohio

Athens
  • Retirement Lifestyle:
    • Athens is home to Ohio University.
    • The city is in the scenic Appalachian foothills, offering beautiful natural surroundings and outdoor activities like hiking trails (45 minutes from Hocking Hills State Park).
    • It has a relaxed pace of life and a small town feel.
  • Important Considerations:
    • Athens is a more isolated small town than other major Ohio cities.
  • By The Numbers:

What Experts Say to Consider When Choosing Your Retirement Location in Ohio

As you reach your ideal retirement age, choosing your retirement location is a big decision! Here are factors to consider, based on what we hear from clients at Stage Ready Financial Planning:

  • Cost of Living: Experts often advise that your fixed income, including Social Security benefits, will comfortably cover your regular expenses. Ohio offers affordability, with many small towns providing a low cost of living and housing. However, remember that costs vary, and experts caution that not all of the best places to live in Ohio for retirement are the cheapest. If a low cost is your priority over amenities, you should consult other lists when choosing your retirement destination.
  • Do Your Research: Websites like Niche.com and Zillow.com offer detailed cost of living and other information for Ohio cities.
  • Proximity to Family and Friends: Regular social connection with your friends and family is important for life satisfaction in retirement. Think about how close you want to be to the people you care about.
  • Access to Healthcare: As we get older, access to quality healthcare becomes a major priority. Research the hospitals and medical facilities in the areas you’re considering and factor in additional healthcare costs if you have to commute a long way.
  • Climate: Ohio has four distinct seasons, which some people love and others don’t! Consider your tolerance for cold winters and hot summers.
  • Outdoor Activity: Do you enjoy kayaking in Lake Erie, hiking near waterfalls, or biking, and golfing? Be sure your chosen retirement destination offers easy access to these activities.
  • Community Involvement: Experts recommend looking for places with ample opportunities for community involvement. This includes volunteer work, community events, and social clubs. Many of Ohio’s small towns have a strong sense of community and opportunities to find meaning and purpose in retirement.

Why Planning Sooner than Later Is Important

To make a move to any of these locations, financial preparation is essential. At Stage Ready Financial Planning, we often meet clients who have delayed serious planning until close to their ideal retirement age. This is usually because they’re focused on their family and careers.

The later you start planning, the more time your money needs to grow due to compounding. Early planning allows flexibility to adjust your strategy if needed, such as during market downturns or handling unexpected healthcare costs. We understand that planning can feel overwhelming, but “retired you” will thank you for thinking ahead!

How Can a Financial Planner Help Your Retirement Strategy?

This is where a financial planner comes in. We can help you:

  • Create a personalized retirement plan: We’ll assess your current financial situation, understand your goals and ideal retirement age, and create a roadmap for you. This includes a roadmap to help you retire wherever you want!
  • Optimize your investments: We’ll help you choose investments that align with your risk tolerance and fixed income needs. You can feel confident that you have a plan to turn your savings into income that won’t run out.
  • Minimize your taxes: We partner with your tax professional to explore strategies that may reduce your retirement tax burden, helping you keep more of your savings.
  • Navigate complex decisions: We support you through decisions like Social Security benefits claiming strategies, healthcare cost planning, and fixed income maximization.

Want to Make Your Retirement Dream a Little More Tangible? Let Stage Ready Financial Planning Help

Planning for retirement is an exciting process. If you’re in the Dayton area or anywhere in Ohio and want to make sure your finances are on track for the retirement you want, we’re here to help.

At Stage Ready Financial Planning, we specialize in helping people just like you – hardworking families who want to retire with confidence and peace of mind. We understand your desire to live out your retirement where you want and on your terms! 

We’d love to chat with you about your goals and how we can help you achieve them. Schedule your intro call today!

FAQs

How much money do you need to retire comfortably in Ohio?

There’s no single answer, as it really depends on your lifestyle and spending habits. While Ohio’s housing costs are below the U.S. average, debt and variable spending can increase your overall retirement costs. Start by estimating your regular expenses including housing, healthcare, and fun spending, to determine your ideal retirement income. Then you can compare this to your fixed income to see where you stand.

What is the most affordable place to live in Ohio?

Many Ohio cities offer a low cost of living, including Dayton, Toledo, and some of the mentioned Cleveland neighborhoods. Housing costs are often a big consideration, especially if you are living on a fixed income such as your Social Security benefits. Small town locations in Ohio can provide a low cost alternative to larger metropolitan areas. The list above includes several low cost choices for budget-minded individuals.

About the Author

Infographic image of Joseph Eck, CFP

Joseph A. Eck, CFP®, is a financial planner committed to helping people create a holistic vision for their retirement. He understands that where you live significantly affects your overall retirement satisfaction and financial well-being. With extensive experience in retirement planning, Joseph offers personalized guidance and support to clients in Dayton and Southwest Ohio. He empowers retirement savers to achieve their financial goals and build a fulfilling life in their ideal Ohio community.  Click here to learn more about Joseph.

Article References 

This communication is for informational purposes only and is not intended as investment, tax, accounting, or legal advice, as an offer or solicitation of an offer to buy or sell, or as an endorsement of any company, security, fund, or other securities or non-securities offering. This communication should not be relied upon as the sole factor in an investment making decision. Past performance is no indication of future results.



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