Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Ashtabula, OH
Considering a move to Ashtabula, OH? With a population of 17,975 and affordable housing—median home prices around $84,500 and rents averaging $765—living costs are well below national averages. Commute times are short at about 19 minutes, and the city offers access to Lake Erie, local healthcare, and community colleges. While property crime rates are higher than average, residents enjoy four true seasons and a friendly, close-knit atmosphere. Explore local schools, cost of living, and more below to get a feel for life in Ashtabula.
Demographics - Ashtabula, OH
Demographics - Ashtabula, OH
Ashtabula, Ohio is home to nearly 18,000 residents, with a median age of around 40 and a diverse population that is predominantly White, with a notable Black community as well. The city features a balanced gender ratio and a moderately dense urban environment, making it appealing for those seeking a small-town atmosphere with some diversity. Around 5% of residents speak a language other than English, reflecting a modest multicultural presence.
Population:
17,975
Density:
1,250 per sq mi
Median Age:
39.8
Gender Ratio:
94 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
5.2%

Ethnic Composition
White:
81.4%
Black:
10.1%
Asian:
0.6%
Others:
7.9%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Ashtabula, OH?
The cost of living in Ashtabula is significantly lower than the national average, with a median home value of $84,500 and average rents around $765. Essentials such as utilities and groceries remain affordable, and state income tax rates are relatively low. This makes the city an attractive option for those seeking budget-friendly living without sacrificing lifestyle.
Median House Value:
$84,500
Gross Rent:
$765
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$110
Auto Insurance:
$1,050
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,050
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$390
State Taxes:
Low:
0.5%
|
High:
3.99%
Cost Of Living Index:
74.1
Grocery:
92.0
Housing:
37.5
Utilities:
95.2
Transportation:
85.6
Health Care:
93.1
Miscellaneous:
90.4
Crime
Is Ashtabula, OH a safe place to live?
Ashtabula experiences a higher-than-average property crime rate, with residents facing a 1 in 47 chance of property crime, while violent crime is less common at 1 in 352. While safety is a consideration, many residents find that the community’s close-knit feel and awareness contribute to a sense of local vigilance. Taking standard precautions can help ensure a safe living experience.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
284
Property Crimes Per 100k:
2,140
Crime Index:
2,424
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 352
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 47
Weather
What is the weather like in Ashtabula, OH year-round?
Residents enjoy four distinct seasons, with warm summers reaching highs near 80°F and cold winters dipping to about 20°F. Ashtabula receives approximately 39 inches of annual rainfall, and sunshine is present about 47% of the year. The climate supports a range of outdoor activities across the seasons, from beach days on Lake Erie in summer to snowy landscapes in winter.

Winter
Min:
20°F
Max:
35°F

Spring
Min:
38°F
Max:
63°F

Summer
Min:
59°F
Max:
80°F

Fall
Min:
41°F
Max:
65°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
39.2 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
47%
Neighbors
The local community in Ashtabula is characterized by modest incomes, with a median household income of $39,100 and a higher than average poverty rate at 27%. Most residents commute under 20 minutes to work, and public transportation usage is minimal. Educational attainment is solid at the high school level, though fewer residents hold college degrees compared to national figures.
Median Income:
$28,100
Household Income:
$39,100
Family Income:
$48,500
Per Capita Income:
$20,400
Income Male:
$37,200
Income Female:
$27,100
Poverty Rate:
27.2%
Non English Speakers:
5.2%
Rent:
$765
Unemployment Rate:
6.9%
Public Transport Usage:
0.4%
Commute Time:
18.7 minutes

Education
High School or Higher:
85.7%
Bachelors or More:
13.5%
Education
How are the schools in Ashtabula, OH?
Ashtabula features several public and private schooling options, including Lakeside High School and St. John School, serving a range of student needs with manageable class sizes. The city is also home to Kent State University at Ashtabula, providing accessible higher education opportunities. Overall, the community supports educational growth from elementary through college right within city limits.

Public Schools
Name:
Lakeside High School
Street:
6600 Sanborn Rd
Phone:
440-993-2522
Students:
1,090
Student Teacher Ratio:
15.5
Name:
Lakeside Elementary School
Street:
2300 Wade Ave
Phone:
440-992-1251
Students:
1,050
Student Teacher Ratio:
16.1

Private Schools
Name:
St. John School
Street:
7911 Depot Rd
Phone:
440-997-5531
Students:
310

Colleges
Name:
Kent State University at Ashtabula
City:
Ashtabula
State:
OH
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
2,100
Name:
Lakeland Community College
City:
Kirtland
State:
OH
Distance:
38 miles
Students:
7,700
Healthcare
Ashtabula offers accessible healthcare, anchored by the Ashtabula County Medical Center, which provides general and emergency services. The city boasts about 2.1 physicians per 1,000 residents, and over 91% of people have health insurance coverage. Healthcare costs are manageable, making it convenient for families and retirees alike.

Major Hospitals
Name:
Ashtabula County Medical Center
Address:
2420 Lake Ave, Ashtabula, OH 44004
Phone:
(440) 997-2262
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.1
Health Insurance Coverage:
91.6%
Health Care Index:
76.1
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Ashtabula, OH?
The housing market in Ashtabula is particularly appealing for buyers and renters alike, with a median home price of $84,500 and average two-bedroom rents at $765. Homeownership is common, with nearly 58% of residents owning their homes, and the area has seen a healthy home appreciation rate of almost 7% in the last year. Rental vacancies are relatively high, offering flexibility for newcomers.
Median Home Price:
$84,500
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$765
Owner Occupied Rate:
57.9%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
8.7%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
6.8%
New Construction Rate:
0.8%
Foreclosure Rate:
1.0%
DMV Information
Residents can access vehicle and licensing services through the Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles located on Bridge Street in Ashtabula. The office provides a full range of DMV services, and more information is available on the state BMV website. This makes it easy for new arrivals to register vehicles and obtain licenses locally.
State:
Ohio
Department:
Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles
Address:
1005 Bridge St, Ashtabula, OH 44004
Phone:
(844) 644-6268
Website:
Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is based on publicly available sources including AccuWeather, U.S. Census Bureau, local government data, and third-party partners such as Neustar. While we strive to ensure accuracy, all data is provided “as is” and should be independently verified before making any decisions. Movers.com makes no guarantees regarding the completeness or reliability of the information.