Best Places To Buy Rental Property In Ohio For 2025

Ohio might not always be the first state that comes to mind for real estate investing, but the best places to buy rental property in Ohio are proving to be goldmines for smart investors. With affordable home prices, a strong job market, and steady population growth, Ohio offers excellent opportunities to generate consistent rental income and long-term appreciation. Unlike pricier coastal states, Ohio allows investors to secure properties with low upfront costs while still enjoying solid cash flow.

For those wondering where to buy rental property in Ohio, the state’s mix of urban hotspots, growing suburbs, and affordable college towns provides something for every strategy. Whether you're looking for Ohio rental property investment opportunities in high-demand metros or emerging rental markets with strong appreciation potential, this guide breaks down the top cities where investors are seeing real success.

Let’s dive in to the following:

• Why Ohio Is One of The Best Places To Buy Rental Property
• Top 15 Best Places To Buy Rental Property In Ohio
• The Best Places To Buy Rental Property In Ohio: FAQ

Ready to Take the Next Step in Real Estate Investing? Join our FREE live webinar and discover the proven strategies to build lasting wealth through real estate.

Whether you're just getting started or ready to scale, we'll show you how to take action today. Don't miss this opportunity to learn the insider tips and tools that have helped thousands of investors succeed! Seats are limited—Reserve Your Spot Now!

Read Also: How To Buy A Rental Property With No Money

Why Ohio Is One of The Best Places To Buy Rental Property

If you’re looking for strong cash flow, affordable properties, and high rental demand, Ohio might just be the best-kept secret in real estate investing. Whether you’re after long-term buy-and-hold rentals, short-term Airbnbs, or multi-unit properties, Ohio’s rental market offers some of the best opportunities in the Midwest—without the sky-high property prices of coastal states.

What’s driving Ohio’s real estate boom? A combination of affordable home prices, a growing job market, and a high percentage of renters has positioned the state as a top destination for investors. With major metro areas like Columbus, Cleveland, and Cincinnati offering strong rental yields and suburbs seeing rapid growth, there’s no shortage of promising investment locations.

Beyond affordability, Ohio is home to a thriving economy, anchored by healthcare, tech, and manufacturing sectors that continue to fuel population growth and rental demand. The state is also landlord-friendly, tax-friendly, and strategically located, making it a smart choice for both local and out-of-state investors.

If you're thinking about investing, Ohio offers a rare combination of low-cost properties and high returns. Here’s why it’s one of the best places to buy rental property in Ohio:

• Affordable Property Prices & Strong ROI Potential
• Booming Healthcare & Tech Sectors
• Low Cost of Living & High Rental Demand
• High Rental Yields Compared to Other States
• Landlord-Friendly Laws

Affordable Property Prices & Strong ROI Potential

If you're looking for one of the best places to buy rental property in Ohio, you’re in luck—this state delivers a powerful one-two punch of affordability and solid returns. Unlike pricier coastal markets, Ohio’s real estate investment opportunities come with a much lower cost of entry, making it an ideal playground for both new and seasoned investors.

As of early 2025, the median home value in Ohio sits at $226,002, which is just 63.6% of the national average ($355,328). That means investors can get into the market with significantly less capital compared to high-cost states like New York or California. With home values rising 5.9% year-over-year, appreciation is happening, but prices remain accessible—a perfect combination for long-term wealth-building.

Lower purchase prices naturally lead to higher rental yields, and Ohio delivers in that department. The median gross rent in Ohio has climbed 10% in the last decade, reaching $870 per month, with some cities like Cincinnati and Cleveland seeing even stronger rent growth.

With low property costs, steady rent growth, and high yield potential, Ohio offers an unmatched investment landscape for buy-and-hold investors. Whether you're looking for cash flow, appreciation, or a mix of both, the Ohio rental property investment market gives you room to grow your portfolio without breaking the bank.

Read Also: Rental Property Calculator: How To Calculate Your ROI

Booming Healthcare & Tech Sectors

Ohio's dynamic healthcare and technology sectors are not just transforming the state's economy—they're also creating prime opportunities for real estate investors. The rapid expansion in these industries is driving a surge in demand for rental properties, making Ohio one of the best places to buy rental property.

Ohio's healthcare industry is a robust and ever-expanding field. In 2019, the average annual pay within this sector was $83,879, significantly higher than the state's private industry average of $51,726. The industry is projected to offer approximately 20,360 job opportunities annually across various occupations.

Central Ohio, in particular, is experiencing a healthcare boom. The region's population is expected to grow by 30% over the next 25 years, adding about 726,000 new residents. Notably, the number of residents aged 65 and older is projected to increase by 40%, reaching 226,000 by 2050. This demographic shift underscores the escalating need for healthcare services and professionals, subsequently boosting demand for rental housing to accommodate this growing workforce.

Ohio's tech industry is on a meteoric rise, attracting major investments and talent. The state has become a magnet for tech giants and startups alike, thanks to its strategic location and supportive business environment. Columbus, for instance, has seen a remarkable 22% growth in tech jobs over the past five years, driven by sectors such as fintech, health tech, and logistics.

Significant investments are fueling this growth. Intel's announcement to construct two new chip factories in Ohio, with an initial investment of over $20 billion, is set to create 3,000 jobs directly and support tens of thousands more in the ecosystem. Similarly, Amazon's additional $10 billion investment to expand its data center operations in the state underscores Ohio's burgeoning status as a tech hub.

The expansion of these sectors translates into a growing influx of professionals seeking housing, thereby increasing rental demand. For investors, this means a steady stream of potential tenants and the opportunity for attractive returns. The combination of job growth, population influx, and strategic investments positions Ohio as a prime location for rental property investments.

Low Cost of Living & High Rental Demand

One of the biggest reasons Ohio is one of the best places to buy rental property is its remarkably low cost of living, especially compared to other states with strong rental markets. The affordability factor is a game-changer for investors—lower property prices mean lower upfront costs, while still maintaining strong rental demand from tenants who want to take advantage of Ohio’s affordable lifestyle.

Ohio consistently ranks among the most affordable states in the U.S. In fact, the cost of living in Ohio is nearly 11% lower than the national average, making it one of the most budget-friendly states to live in. Housing costs are a major reason for this—Ohio’s median home value sits at $226,002, compared to the national median of $355,328. This massive difference allows investors to enter the market with less capital while maintaining higher cash flow potential.

Beyond housing, everyday expenses in Ohio remain significantly lower than in other states. Groceries, utilities, transportation, and healthcare all cost less than the national average, keeping more money in renters’ pockets and making Ohio an attractive place to live long-term. A lower cost of living reduces tenant turnover, as people are more likely to stay in affordable locations rather than relocate to more expensive cities.

Ohio’s affordability is a magnet for young professionals, families, and retirees looking for a financially sustainable place to live. Cities like Columbus, Cincinnati, and Cleveland have all seen an influx of new residents, driving rental demand across the state. For example:

• Columbus has grown by over 12% in the last decade, fueled by its booming tech and healthcare industries.
• Cincinnati has experienced a surge in rental demand due to job growth and revitalization efforts in its downtown and surrounding areas.
• Cleveland remains one of the best places in Ohio to buy investment properties due to its affordable entry costs and high demand from renters.

The rental vacancy rate in Ohio is around 5.5%, which is lower than the national average of 6.9%, according to the Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis. This means landlords can expect steady occupancy rates and consistent rental income, reducing the risks of prolonged vacancies.

With low property prices and growing rental demand, investors in Ohio are in a prime position to maximize returns while minimizing risks. This combination allows landlords to keep costs low, charge competitive rents, and generate strong cash flow—making Ohio one of the best states for buy-and-hold rental property investments.

If you’re looking for a high-demand, low-cost rental market that delivers steady returns, Ohio is an excellent choice. The cost-of-living advantage keeps attracting residents, which means demand for rentals isn’t slowing down anytime soon. For investors, that’s the ultimate recipe for long-term success.

Read Also: How To Start A Rental Property Business: A Step-By-Step Guide

*For in-depth training on real estate investing, Real Estate Skills offers extensive courses to get you ready to make your first investment! Attend our FREE Webinar Training and gain insider knowledge, expert strategies, and essential skills to make the most of every real estate opportunity that comes your way!

High Rental Yields Compared to Other States

When it comes to high rental yields, Ohio is in a league of its own. Compared to more expensive states where high home prices eat into profits, Ohio’s affordable real estate market allows investors to secure properties at lower costs while still generating strong rental income. That combination creates some of the highest rental yields in the country, making Ohio one of the best places to buy rental property in Ohio for long-term investors and cash flow seekers.

One of the key indicators of a profitable rental market is the gross rental yield, which is the annual rental income divided by the property’s purchase price. In Ohio, rental yields are among the best in the nation. Landlords in Ohio are seeing higher cash-on-cash returns than investors in states like California or New York, where high property costs severely cut into rental profits.

In high-cost states, investors struggle to make cash flow positive deals because mortgage payments, property taxes, and maintenance costs eat into profits. However, in Ohio:

• Lower property prices mean lower monthly mortgage payments, making it easier to achieve positive cash flow.
• Higher rental yields allow investors to reinvest profits into additional properties, creating scalable real estate portfolios.
• Lower vacancy rates ensure consistent rental income, reducing financial risk.

Ohio’s combination of low property costs, strong rental demand, and high yields makes it one of the best places to buy rental property in Ohio. Whether you’re looking to build a portfolio of buy-and-hold rentals, invest in short-term rental properties, or tap into the college town housing market, Ohio provides investors with high-yield opportunities that outperform many other states.

For those seeking strong cash flow, affordability, and long-term rental appreciation, Ohio’s rental markets are hard to beat.

Landlord-Friendly Laws

When it comes to the best places to buy rental property in Ohio, investors should be excited about the state’s landlord-friendly legal environment. Compared to many states with strict tenant protections and high property tax burdens, Ohio provides an ideal environment for rental property owners looking for stability and profitability.

Ohio's laws are structured to favor landlords while maintaining tenant protections that are reasonable rather than restrictive. The state's eviction process is relatively straightforward, meaning landlords can remove tenants who fail to pay rent or violate lease terms more efficiently than in states with stricter tenant protections. In many cases, an eviction in Ohio can take just three to four weeks from the initial notice to the final court ruling, depending on local jurisdiction. In contrast, states like New York or Illinois can see eviction cases drag on for several months, cutting into landlords' cash flow and increasing holding costs.

Additionally, Ohio allows landlords to set security deposit amounts freely—there’s no statewide cap, unlike in many other states that limit deposits to one or two months’ rent. This means rental property owners can require a more substantial deposit in riskier rental markets, protecting against potential damages and unpaid rent.

Lease agreements are also flexible in Ohio, allowing landlords to include terms favorable to their investment strategy. Month-to-month leases, standard one-year leases, and multi-year agreements are all permitted, providing flexibility based on the needs of the landlord and market demand.

For real estate investors seeking Ohio rental property investment opportunities, the state's landlord-friendly laws make it a compelling option. Whether you're looking to build a portfolio of single-family rentals or invest in multi-unit properties, Ohio’s balanced legal framework provides the perfect backdrop for success.

Top 15 Best Places To Buy Rental Property In Ohio

Ohio is packed with rental property investment opportunities, but knowing where to buy rental property in Ohio can make all the difference in maximizing cash flow, appreciation, and long-term profitability. Whether you're looking for high-yield rental markets, steady tenant demand, or affordable entry points, Ohio has something for every investor.

The Ohio rental property investment market offers a mix of urban, suburban, and college town opportunities, with cities that cater to both short-term and long-term rental strategies. Some markets thrive on job growth and economic expansion, while others benefit from strong student populations or an influx of remote workers seeking affordability. No matter your investment strategy, the right city can make or break your rental portfolio.

We’ve put together a list of the best places to buy rental property in Ohio, each offering a unique advantage for real estate investors. Whether you’re looking for strong appreciation, low vacancy rates, or cash-flowing rental properties, these cities stand out as prime locations to build wealth through real estate:

• Columbus: A booming job market, growing tech sector, and large student population.
• Cincinnati: A revitalized downtown, strong job growth, and high rental yields.
• Cleveland: Affordable home prices, strong rental demand, and waterfront development.
• Dayton: A high rent-to-price ratio and a strong healthcare and aerospace industry.
• Toledo: One of Ohio’s most affordable real estate markets.
• Akron: A mix of college renters and a growing healthcare sector.
• Canton: Low home prices and consistent rental demand.
• Youngstown: A rapidly developing market with some of the lowest property prices.
• Lorain: Close to Cleveland but much more affordable.
• Hamilton: A strong local job market and suburban appeal.
• Middletown: A small-town feel with high rental demand.
• Springfield: Affordable entry prices and proximity to Columbus.
• Lima: A growing economy and manufacturing jobs keep rental demand strong.
• Newark: A fast-growing Columbus suburb offering rental stability.
• Elyria: A hidden gem with low vacancy rates and a steady tenant base.

Each of these cities presents strong Ohio real estate investment opportunities, whether you're looking for cash flow, appreciation, or a mix of both. In the next section, we’ll break down why each of these cities stands out and how investors can maximize their profits in Ohio's rental market.

Columbus, OH

As Ohio’s capital and largest city, Columbus is one of the best places to buy rental property in Ohio thanks to its diverse economy, thriving job market, and strong population growth. Home to Ohio State University, one of the largest colleges in the country, there’s an endless stream of students in need of housing. But it’s not just student rentals—Columbus has a growing tech and healthcare industry, meaning professionals are flocking to the city and driving demand for long-term rentals. The city is also more affordable than many other state capitals, making it attractive for both investors and renters. Investors seeking Ohio real estate investment opportunities should consider a mix of student housing, single-family homes, and small multi-unit properties for steady returns.

Cincinnati, OH

Right next to the Ohio River, Cincinnati is a goldmine for investors looking for cash-flowing properties. The city’s revitalization efforts have made neighborhoods like Over-the-Rhine and Walnut Hills prime spots for investment. With Fortune 500 companies like Procter & Gamble and Kroger headquartered here, job opportunities continue to attract new residents. The city's affordability also makes it a strong market for both buy-and-hold investors and those interested in short-term rentals in Ohio’s rental property market. Whether you’re looking at traditional long-term leases or Airbnb properties near downtown, Cincinnati presents a range of options for investors looking to generate consistent rental income.

Cleveland, OH

Cleveland has transformed in recent years, making it a top contender for real estate investment in Ohio. The city’s healthcare sector, led by the Cleveland Clinic, drives economic stability and attracts a steady workforce in need of rental housing. The city also boasts a low cost of entry, with affordable home prices that provide excellent cash flow potential. Investors who want to tap into one of the best rental markets in Ohio should consider areas near Cleveland State University or University Circle, where student and professional housing demand remains high. With ongoing development projects revitalizing neighborhoods, now is an excellent time to invest in Cleveland rental properties.

Dayton, OH

Known for its aerospace and defense industries, Dayton has a strong job market that fuels demand for rentals. The city is home to Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, one of the largest employers in Ohio, which creates a stable population of military personnel, government contractors, and support staff who often prefer renting over buying. Additionally, Dayton’s affordable property prices and rising rental rates make it one of the best cities in Ohio for buy-and-hold real estate investing. The downtown area has seen significant redevelopment, making it a great market for investors looking for multi-family properties or single-family rentals in up-and-coming neighborhoods.

Toledo, OH

For investors looking for an affordable market with high rental yields, Toledo checks all the boxes. This city is one of the most profitable rental markets in Ohio, offering low-cost housing with strong rental demand. The city's manufacturing industry and proximity to major transportation routes keep job growth steady, ensuring a continuous influx of renters. With home prices significantly lower than the national average, investors can generate excellent cash flow from both single-family rentals and multi-unit properties. The Old West End and Point Place neighborhoods are particularly attractive for investors, as they offer a mix of historic homes and affordable properties primed for appreciation.

Akron, OH

As one of Ohio’s most affordable metro areas, Akron is a prime market for investors looking to maximize cash flow. The city has a diverse economy, with major employers in healthcare, manufacturing, and education, ensuring steady rental demand. The University of Akron brings a strong student population, while the city’s revitalization efforts are attracting young professionals and families looking to rent. With property prices still well below the national average, Akron is one of the best places to buy rental property in Ohio for investors looking for high rental yields. The Highland Square and North Hill neighborhoods are great areas to target for buy-and-hold strategies.

Canton, OH

Canton, best known as the home of the Pro Football Hall of Fame, is an under-the-radar market with great potential for real estate investors. The city’s low cost of living and affordable housing make it attractive for long-term renters, especially retirees and young professionals. With steady employment in healthcare, education, and manufacturing, demand for rentals remains stable. Canton offers some of the best Ohio real estate investment opportunities, particularly for single-family homes and small multi-family units. Investors should look into the Market Heights and Ridgewood neighborhoods, where home values are still appreciating but remain affordable.

Youngstown, OH

For investors seeking high cash flow at a low entry cost, Youngstown is hard to beat. The city has some of the most affordable housing in the state, allowing investors to buy rental properties at a fraction of the cost of larger Ohio metros. While Youngstown is still rebuilding from its post-industrial decline, recent efforts to diversify the economy and attract new businesses are showing promise. It’s one of the best cities in Ohio for buy-and-hold real estate investing, as rental demand remains strong among families and professionals looking for budget-friendly housing. Investors should consider properties near Youngstown State University, where student rentals can provide consistent income.

Lorain, OH

Situated on the shores of Lake Erie, Lorain is a hidden gem in Ohio’s rental property market. With easy access to Cleveland and an improving local economy, rental demand is growing. The city’s lakefront location and affordability make it attractive for both long-term renters and vacation rentals. Lorain is one of the best areas in Ohio to buy investment property, as home prices remain low while rental demand continues to rise. Investors should consider properties near the downtown waterfront district, where revitalization projects are improving the city’s appeal and boosting property values.

Hamilton, OH

Located just north of Cincinnati, Hamilton is one of Ohio’s fastest-growing rental markets. The city’s downtown has undergone a major transformation, attracting new businesses, restaurants, and entertainment venues. With its close proximity to major employers in Cincinnati and an increasing demand for rental housing, Hamilton presents strong opportunities for real estate investors. The city offers a mix of single-family homes and duplexes that provide solid rental income opportunities. Hamilton is one of the best places to buy rental property in Ohio, particularly for investors looking to capitalize on rising property values and rental demand in the Greater Cincinnati area.

Middletown, OH

Middletown is a prime location for investors seeking affordable properties with strong rental demand. Positioned between Cincinnati and Dayton, it attracts commuters and young professionals looking for budget-friendly housing. The city has seen economic revitalization efforts, including investments in downtown development and infrastructure. Middletown is one of the best places to buy rental property in Ohio, as home prices remain well below the state average while rental rates are steadily increasing. Single-family homes in well-established neighborhoods provide great opportunities for buy-and-hold investors looking to generate long-term passive income.

Springfield, OH

For investors looking for high rental yields in a growing market, Springfield offers an excellent opportunity. The city has a strong healthcare and manufacturing presence, creating a steady demand for rental housing. Additionally, Wittenberg University brings in a consistent student population, making Springfield one of the best Ohio cities for rental property investments. The city’s downtown redevelopment efforts and expanding job market are driving new interest in rental housing. Investors should focus on properties near the university or major employers for the best long-term returns.

Lima, OH

With its low-cost housing market and steady rental demand, Lima is an underrated real estate investment location in Ohio. The city is home to Ohio State University Lima and a strong manufacturing sector, both of which contribute to a stable rental market. Lima is one of the most profitable rental markets in Ohio, offering investors affordable property options with solid cash flow potential. Investors can find great deals on single-family homes and small multi-family properties in up-and-coming neighborhoods.

Newark, OH

Located just east of Columbus, Newark is an excellent choice for investors looking to benefit from the economic spillover of Ohio’s capital city. The city has seen steady job growth, thanks to expansions in healthcare, logistics, and tech industries. Newark is one of the best areas in Ohio to buy investment property, as home values remain relatively low compared to Columbus, but rental demand continues to increase. Investors should look at properties near major employers and transportation hubs for the best return on investment.

Elyria, OH

Just outside of Cleveland, Elyria is an attractive market for investors seeking affordable properties with high rental demand. The city benefits from its proximity to Cleveland’s job market while offering more affordable housing options. Elyria is one of the best places to buy rental property in Ohio, especially for investors looking at single-family homes and duplexes. The city’s ongoing economic development projects and improved infrastructure are expected to support long-term appreciation and rental growth. Investors should focus on well-located properties near schools and public transportation for consistent rental income.

The Best Places To Buy Rental Property In Ohio: FAQ

Investing in Ohio’s real estate market can be life-changing for investors. With affordable property prices, strong job growth, and high rental demand, Ohio offers a variety of profitable investment opportunities. Below, we answer some of the most common questions about the best places to buy rental property in Ohio, helping you make an informed decision.

What are the best places to buy rental property in Ohio?

The best places to buy rental property in Ohio include major cities like Columbus, Cincinnati, and Cleveland, as well as up-and-coming markets like Dayton, Akron, and Youngstown. These cities offer affordable housing, high rental demand, and strong job markets, making them attractive for both long-term and short-term investors.

Is Ohio a good state for real estate investing?

Yes! Ohio is one of the best states for real estate investing due to its low property prices, strong job market, and high rental demand. Investors can benefit from favorable landlord laws, steady population growth, and strong economic fundamentals, making it a great place for both cash flow and appreciation.

Where can I find the highest rental yields in Ohio?

Cities like Cleveland, Dayton, and Youngstown offer some of the highest rental yields in Ohio, thanks to their low property prices and strong rental demand. Investors looking for high cash flow properties should focus on multi-family homes and single-family rentals in these markets.

What types of rental properties are best to buy in Ohio?

The best rental properties in Ohio depend on the city and its demand. Single-family homes are ideal for long-term tenants in suburban areas, while multi-family units perform well in urban centers like Cleveland and Cincinnati. Short-term rentals in tourist-friendly areas can also provide strong cash flow.

Are Ohio’s landlord laws favorable for investors?

Yes! Ohio has landlord-friendly laws, allowing property owners to evict non-paying tenants efficiently and charge market-driven rents. The state also has lower property taxes compared to nearby states, making it an even more attractive market for investors.

Which Ohio cities have the most affordable properties for investors?

Cities like Youngstown, Akron, and Lorain have some of the most affordable properties in Ohio, with low purchase prices and strong rental demand. These markets offer great opportunities for investors looking to maximize cash flow with minimal upfront investment.

Is now a good time to invest in Ohio rental properties?

Yes! With rising rental demand, steady home appreciation, and a growing economy, now is a great time to invest in Ohio real estate. As property prices continue to increase, getting in early can provide strong long-term returns for investors.

What’s the best strategy for real estate investing in Ohio?

The best strategy depends on your goals. Buy-and-hold investors can benefit from steady cash flow and appreciation, while fix-and-flip investors can take advantage of affordable property prices. Short-term rentals in high-demand areas can also generate significant passive income.

How does Ohio’s real estate market compare to other states?

Compared to neighboring states like Pennsylvania and Michigan, Ohio offers lower home prices, higher rental yields, and strong job growth. This makes it one of the best places to buy rental property in the Midwest for investors seeking both affordability and profitability.

Final Thoughts On The Best Places To Buy Rental Property In Ohio

The best places to buy rental property in Ohio are getting harder to ignore, offering investors a rare combination of affordability, high rental demand, and strong cash flow potential. With a booming job market and some of the best rental markets in Ohio, now is the time to take action. Whether you're looking for steady appreciation, passive income, or long-term wealth-building, Ohio’s real estate market delivers. Don’t wait—start building your rental property empire in Ohio today.

Ready to Take the Next Step in Real Estate Investing? Join our FREE live webinar and discover the proven strategies to build lasting wealth through real estate.

Whether you're just getting started or ready to scale, we'll show you how to take action today. Don't miss this opportunity to learn the insider tips and tools that have helped thousands of investors succeed! Seats are limited—Reserve Your Spot Now!

*Disclosure: Real Estate Skills is not a law firm, and the information contained here does not constitute legal advice. You should consult with an attorney before making any legal conclusions. The information presented here is educational in nature. All investments involve risks, and the past performance of an investment, industry, sector, and/or market does not guarantee future returns or results. Investors are responsible for any investment decision they make. Such decisions should be based on an evaluation of their financial situation, investment objectives, risk tolerance, and liquidity needs.