A+
3%
Overall NAT. AVG.
3%
Groceries NAT. AVG.
1%
Housing NAT. AVG.
Date & Last Updated: These cost of living estimates reflect 2026 modeled data using U.S. Census housing inputs and AI-assisted city-level pricing models.
The cost of living index is based on a national average of 100. For example, if the cost of living score is 90, then the estimated cost of living is 10% lower than the national average. If the score is 110, then the estimated cost of living is 10% higher than average. The overall index is calculated using weighted estimates across major everyday expense categories, including housing (30%), groceries (16%), transportation (12%), healthcare (10%), utilities (8%), lifestyle and entertainment (8%), household expenses (8%), and education and childcare (8%). All values are AI-assisted city-level estimates designed for directional comparisons.
Index University Heights Ohio National
Cost of living9789100
Groceries9797100
Health care9896100
Housing9974100
Transportation9596100
Utilities9396100
Lifestyle & Entertainment9395100
Household Items9797100
Education & Childcare9693100
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An Overview of Cost of Living in University Heights, OH

Understanding the cost of living in University Heights can help future residents assess whether their current financial situation aligns with the expenses they will encounter. It enables them to plan for potential changes in their budget and lifestyle. The University Heights cost of living index is 97, which is 3% lower than the national average. The cost of living index is calculated by taking into account multiple categories, which encompass both the cost of everyday expenditures and larger expenses as well.

In University Heights, daily expenses such as food, housing, lifestyle expenses, transportation and health care are in line with comparable areas and about average when compared to all cities across the nation. This ensures that the cost of living in University Heights will resemble that of an average city, contributing to a manageable cost of living.

Is University Heights Affordable?

Wondering if University Heights is affordable? It's a question that often comes up when you're thinking about a new city since affordability can really shape your decisions. The cost of living index (covered earlier), housing expenses and income levels all play a part in the affordability equation. In University Heights, for example, the median home price is 7.2% lower than what folks pay nationally, and monthly rent is 13.6% higher than the usual rates. Plus, income levels matter too, with University Heights boasting a median household income of $121,891, which is 49.9% higher than the national average.

What Factors can Influence the Cost of Living in University Heights?

Utilities: Like everything else, utilities costs can range significantly depending on factors like climate, energy sources available, location and even state regulations. Things like electricity, water, heating and waste disposal costs can be higher or lower, depending on the city or state. The utilities index in University Heights comes in at 6.6% lower than the national average.

Transportation: In areas where public transportation is scarce or unavailable, residents often find themselves compelled to own and upkeep vehicles, thereby increasing the overall cost of living. Monthly expenses encompass fuel, insurance, routine maintenance and potentially lease or financing payments. In University Heights, the transportation index is 4.7% lower than the national average.

Healthcare: Healthcare expenditures and insurance premium rates can vary significantly, contingent upon the particular city or state. Factors such as the accessibility of healthcare facilities, out-of-pocket expenses for doctor's appointments, dental care charges, prescription medication costs, and expenses related to specialized medical care can all have an impact on the overall cost of living. In University Heights, healthcare costs are 2.1% lower than the national average.

Where is the Data From?

The cost of living estimates displayed for University Heights are modeled using a U.S. average baseline of 100, helping provide a useful comparison of local living expenses. Housing calculations include U.S. Census home price and rental data, while all other values are AI-assisted estimates based on regional cost patterns, climate, transportation, and everyday spending expectations. These values are intended for directional comparisons across cities.

Cost Of Living Quick Facts

  • The cost of living in University Heights is 8% higher than the Ohio average
  • The cost of living in University Heights is 3% lower than the national average
  • University Heights housing is 1% lower than the national average
  • Ohio general sales tax is 13% higher than the national average
  • Ohio state income tax is 6% higher than the national average

Most Affordable Places to Live in and Around University Heights

See all the best places to live around University Heights

Compare University Heights, OH Cost of Living

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      Median Income & Debt-To-Income Ratio

      Median Income Per Year Per Month Max Budget (28% DTI) Max Budget (36% DTI)
      Owners$158,451$13,204$3,697$4,754
      Renters$84,767$7,064$1,978$2,543
      The percentage of monthly income spent on housing related expenses can help predict the affordability of housing in University Heights, OH, as well as what the overall cost of living might be. Generally, a good rule to follow is that the debt-to-income (DTI) level you want to maintain is 28 percent or less of your income on your rent or mortgage payments and not more than 36 percent of income on all expenses and debts. In University Heights, homeowners have a median income of $158,451. Using that number, a maximum of $3,697 per month should be allocated to housing expenses. For those who are renting instead of owning, the median income is $84,767, which means there is a maximum of $1,978 to be spent on the costs of renting a home or apartment.

      Ohio Sales Tax

      State General Sales Tax With Max Surtax
      Ohio 5.75% 8%

      Ohio Income Tax

      State Income Tax (Low) Income Tax (High)
      Ohio 2.76% 3.99%

      Nearby cities with low cost of living

      City Population Cost of Living Index National Avg.
      East Cleveland, OH17,5638020.2%
      Linndale, OH3468118.5%
      Kinsman Center, OH6748218.1%
      Highland Hills, OH7828218.0%
      Cleveland, OH391,3408118.9%
      University Heights, OH13,351973.3%

      Cities with similar population

      City Population Cost of Living Index National Avg.
      Steamboat Springs, CO13,34615050.4%
      Dunmore, PA13,346963.5%
      Woodinville, WA13,34217372.7%
      Trenton, OH13,371945.5%
      Connersville, IN13,3748317.2%
      University Heights, OH13,351973.3%
      Date & Last Updated: These cost of living estimates reflect 2026 modeled data using U.S. Census housing inputs and AI-assisted city-level pricing models.