Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Defiance, OH
Considering a move to Defiance, OH? With a friendly population of 16,800, Defiance offers affordable living—median home prices are just $148,000 and average two-bedroom rents are around $820. Residents enjoy short commutes averaging 18 minutes, a moderate cost of living, and a crime rate lower than many urban areas. Good local schools and a full-service hospital add to the appeal, while the four-season climate brings 55% sunny days annually. Explore Defiance for budget-friendly homes, a tight-knit community, and convenient amenities.
Demographics - Defiance, OH
Demographics - Defiance, OH
Defiance, Ohio is home to about 16,800 residents, with a median age of 37.8 and a population density of 1,900 people per square mile. The community is predominantly White, but also includes a mix of other backgrounds, and about 5% of residents speak a language other than English at home. This creates a close-knit, family-friendly environment that welcomes newcomers.
Population:
16,800
Density:
1,900 per sq mi
Median Age:
37.8
Gender Ratio:
95 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
5.4%

Ethnic Composition
White:
89.2%
Black:
2.1%
Asian:
0.8%
Others:
7.9%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Defiance, OH?
Living in Defiance is affordable, with a median home value of $148,000 and average rents around $820 for a two-bedroom apartment. The overall cost of living index is well below the national average, making it budget-friendly for families and individuals alike. Utilities and daily expenses also remain reasonable, ensuring residents can enjoy a comfortable lifestyle.
Median House Value:
$148,000
Gross Rent:
$820
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$120
Auto Insurance:
$1,040
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,210
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$420
State Taxes:
Low:
2.85%
|
High:
3.99%
Cost Of Living Index:
82.6
Grocery:
94.1
Housing:
65.2
Utilities:
97.3
Transportation:
90.4
Health Care:
89.2
Miscellaneous:
89.8
Crime
Is Defiance, OH a safe place to live?
Defiance maintains a relatively low crime rate compared to many cities, with a violent crime rate of 204 per 100,000 residents and property crime rates that give most residents peace of mind. The chances of being affected by violent crime are about 1 in 490, making it a safe choice for families and individuals. The city's overall crime index suggests a secure, welcoming community.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
204
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,735
Crime Index:
1,939
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 490
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 58
Weather
What is the weather like in Defiance, OH year-round?
Defiance experiences all four seasons, with cold winters averaging lows around 18°F and warm summers peaking near 83°F. The area gets roughly 36.5 inches of rain annually and boasts about 55% sunny days, providing a pleasant balance of weather year-round. Residents can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities throughout the changing seasons.

Winter
Min:
18°F
Max:
35°F

Spring
Min:
39°F
Max:
65°F

Summer
Min:
62°F
Max:
83°F

Fall
Min:
42°F
Max:
67°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
36.5 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
55%
Neighbors
Residents of Defiance enjoy a strong sense of community, with a median household income of $54,900 and most adults holding at least a high school diploma. Commute times are short, averaging just over 18 minutes, and unemployment remains low. The city is friendly and accessible, making it easy to connect with neighbors and participate in local life.
Median Income:
$38,200
Household Income:
$54,900
Family Income:
$68,800
Per Capita Income:
$27,900
Income Male:
$45,200
Income Female:
$33,800
Poverty Rate:
13.2%
Non English Speakers:
5.4%
Rent:
$820
Unemployment Rate:
4.4%
Public Transport Usage:
0.5%
Commute Time:
18.3 minutes

Education
High School or Higher:
89.7%
Bachelors or More:
19.4%
Education
How are the schools in Defiance, OH?
Defiance supports a range of educational opportunities, including quality public schools like Defiance High School and Middle School as well as private options such as Holy Cross Catholic School. Higher education is accessible through Defiance College in town and Northwest State Community College nearby. Families benefit from strong educational resources and community involvement.

Public Schools
Name:
Defiance High School
Street:
1755 Palmer Dr
Phone:
419-784-2777
Students:
800
Student Teacher Ratio:
17.5
Name:
Defiance Middle School
Street:
629 Arabella St
Phone:
419-782-0050
Students:
650
Student Teacher Ratio:
17.2

Private Schools
Name:
Holy Cross Catholic School
Street:
1745 S Clinton St
Phone:
419-784-2021
Students:
320

Colleges
Name:
Defiance College
City:
Defiance
State:
OH
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
600
Name:
Northwest State Community College
City:
Archbold
State:
OH
Distance:
19 miles
Students:
4,500
Healthcare
Defiance offers quality healthcare options, anchored by ProMedica Defiance Regional Hospital providing general, surgical, and emergency services. With 1.6 physicians per 1,000 residents and nearly 94% health insurance coverage, most residents have reliable access to medical care. The area’s healthcare resources support a healthy and secure lifestyle.

Major Hospitals
Name:
ProMedica Defiance Regional Hospital
Address:
1200 Ralston Ave, Defiance, OH 43512
Phone:
(419) 783-6955
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.6
Health Insurance Coverage:
93.8%
Health Care Index:
66.9
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Defiance, OH?
The Defiance housing market is attractive, with median home prices at $148,000 and a high owner-occupied rate of nearly 69%. Average rent for a two-bedroom unit is affordable at $820, and low foreclosure and vacancy rates indicate a stable market. Home values have seen modest appreciation, making it a good place for both buyers and renters.
Median Home Price:
$148,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$820
Owner Occupied Rate:
68.9%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
7.1%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
3.1%
New Construction Rate:
0.7%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.2%
DMV Information
Defiance residents are served by the Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles located on Stadium Drive, offering convenient access to licensing and vehicle registration. The local DMV provides essential services for drivers and vehicle owners, with support available both in-person and online. This ensures daily transportation needs are met efficiently.
State:
Ohio
Department:
Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles
Address:
195 Stadium Dr, Defiance, OH 43512
Phone:
1-844-644-6268
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.