What is the Property Tax Rate in Ohio?
Based on HomeLight’s analysis of publicly available data, the average effective property tax rate for a primary residence in Ohio is approximately 1.32% of its estimated value. This is higher than the national average of 0.90%.
For example, with a 1.32% effective tax rate, a homeowner with a $313,733 home might pay around $4,141 in annual property taxes.
An effective property tax rate represents the actual percentage of a property’s market value that a homeowner pays in taxes, considering the assessed value and any exemptions or deductions.
Note: HomeLight’s Ohio property tax calculator provides a ballpark estimate for a primary residence using average rates. Your tax can vary based on location and the specific taxing districts (e.g., schools, fire districts, and libraries) that apply to your parcel.
Are There Property Tax Exemptions in Ohio?
In some states, homeowners can apply for property tax exemptions. This can lower a homeowner’s overall tax burden each year. In Ohio, qualifying seniors and low-income individuals may be eligible for a property tax exemption up to $25,000 under a general homestead exemption.
Disabled veterans, disabled individuals, or spouses of first responders may also be elgible for various property tax exemptions.
When Are Ohio Property Taxes Due?
Ohio property tax due dates vary by county. As such, buyers will need to check with their local municipality to determine when their property taxes are due each year.
What Do Property Taxes Pay For in Ohio?
Local property taxes in Ohio pay for important local services, including:
- Public schools
- Police, fire, and EMS services
- Roads, streets, and traffic signals
- Parks, libraries, and community centers
- City and county government operations
- Infrastructure like water, sewer, and trash services
- Repayment of local bond projects (such as transit and school improvements)
What Does It Cost to Buy a Home in Ohio?
How Much House Can You Afford?
Affordability in Ohio depends on your income, debt, credit score, and mortgage rate. With a median household income of around $67,769 in The Buckeye State, a buyer might afford a home in the $225,000 using standard debt-to-income guidelines. However, with the Ohio median home price near $313,733, many buyers need dual incomes or additional savings to qualify.
Use HomeLight’s Home Affordability Calculator to estimate your budget based on your income, debts, and current rates.
What Down Payment Will You Need in Ohio?
According to Visual Capitalist, the average down payment on a house in Ohio is 12.3%. However, down payment amounts vary widely depending on loan type and credit score. While 20% used to be the expected standard, many buyers put down between 5% and 15%, with 3% options available for FHA and some conventional first-time buyer loans.
For a $313,733 home, here’s what your down payment could look like:
- 3% down = $9,412
- 5% down = $15,687
- 10% down = $31,373
- 15% down = $47,060
- 20% down = $62,747
Try HomeLight’s Down Payment Calculator to see how different down payments affect your monthly payment and loan size.
How Much Are Closing Costs in Ohio?
Buyers in Ohio can expect to pay about 2% to 5% of the purchase price in closing costs. These may include:
- Loan origination and underwriting fees
- Title insurance and escrow fees
- Appraisal and inspection costs
- Prepaid property taxes and homeowners’ insurance
- Filing and recording fees
For a $313,733 home, that means estimated closing costs of $6,275 to $15,687. Use HomeLight’s Closing Costs Calculator to get a personalized estimate based on your expected Ohio home purchase price.
How To Find a Trusted Ohio Real Estate Agent
An experienced Ohio agent can help you understand local tax rates, school districts, and development trends — and guide you toward neighborhoods that fit your lifestyle and budget.
HomeLight’s free Agent Match tool uses data from over 27 million transactions and thousands of verified reviews to match you with top Ohio agents based on proven performance. Tell us a little about your buying plans and get matched today with no obligation.
Additional resources when searching for a trusted buyer’s agent in Ohio:
Buying and Selling? Consider “Buy Before You Sell”
If you’re buying a new home in Ohio but need to sell your current property first, HomeLight’s Buy Before You Sell program can simplify the entire process. This modern solution helps you unlock equity from your current home so you can make a non-contingent offer on your new home — and only move once. Watch the short video below to see how it works.