Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Fostoria, OH
Considering a move to Fostoria, OH? With a friendly population of 12,441, Fostoria boasts a very affordable cost of living—median homes are just $98,500 and average two-bedroom rent is $750. Commutes are short at around 21 minutes, and the city enjoys 52% sunny days each year. While crime rates are slightly above national averages, Fostoria offers accessible healthcare, community schools, and convenient small-city living. Explore more below to see if Fostoria’s affordable lifestyle and small-town charm fit your plans!
Demographics - Fostoria, OH
Demographics - Fostoria, OH
Fostoria is home to about 12,400 residents, with a median age of nearly 39 and a balanced gender ratio. The city is predominantly White, with small but present Black and Hispanic communities, and around 4.5% of residents speak a language other than English at home. Its moderate population density supports a friendly, small-town atmosphere.
Population:
12,441
Density:
1,400 per sq mi
Median Age:
38.6
Gender Ratio:
95 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
4.5%
Ethnic Composition
White:
85.2%
Black:
7.8%
Asian:
0.7%
Others:
6.3%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Fostoria, OH?
Living in Fostoria is notably affordable, with a median home value of just under $100,000 and average rent for a two-bedroom around $750. Utility and transportation costs are lower than national averages, and state taxes remain modest, making it an appealing choice for budget-conscious individuals and families. The overall cost of living index is 25% below the U.S. average.
Median House Value:
$98,500
Gross Rent:
$750
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$115
Auto Insurance:
$950
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,040
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$375
State Taxes:
Low:
0.5%
|
High:
3.99%
Cost Of Living Index:
75.1
Grocery:
93.2
Housing:
52.7
Utilities:
92.1
Transportation:
85.3
Health Care:
89.0
Miscellaneous:
89.5
Crime
Is Fostoria, OH a safe place to live?
Fostoria experiences a crime rate slightly above national averages, with a 1 in 476 chance of being a victim of violent crime and a 1 in 63 chance of property crime. While the overall crime index reflects some risk, most residents find the community manageable by taking standard safety precautions. Neighborhood watch programs and community policing help foster a safer environment.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
210
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,580
Crime Index:
1,790
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 476
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 63
Weather
What is the weather like in Fostoria, OH year-round?
Residents in Fostoria enjoy four distinct seasons, with warm summers reaching the mid-80s and chilly winters dipping to the low 20s. The area receives about 36 inches of rainfall annually and enjoys sunshine roughly 52% of the year, providing a balance for those who appreciate both sunny and seasonal weather. Spring and fall bring comfortable, mild temperatures ideal for outdoor activities.
Winter
Min:
20°F
Max:
35°F
Spring
Min:
40°F
Max:
65°F
Summer
Min:
62°F
Max:
84°F
Fall
Min:
44°F
Max:
68°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
36.2 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
52%
Neighbors
Fostoria’s median household income is around $43,800, with a family income close to $55,500 and a poverty rate of 16.4%. Most adults have completed high school, and the average commute is a quick 21 minutes, reflecting the city’s manageable size. The community is tight-knit, with low public transport usage and affordable rental options.
Median Income:
$25,200
Household Income:
$43,800
Family Income:
$55,500
Per Capita Income:
$23,300
Income Male:
$32,100
Income Female:
$25,900
Poverty Rate:
16.4%
Non English Speakers:
4.5%
Rent:
$750
Unemployment Rate:
5.2%
Public Transport Usage:
0.3%
Commute Time:
21.4 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
87.8%
Bachelors or More:
13.2%
Education
How are the schools in Fostoria, OH?
Fostoria offers public and private schooling options, including Fostoria Junior/Senior High School with a student-teacher ratio under 17:1 and a local Catholic school alternative. Higher education is within reach, with Terra State Community College and Bowling Green State University both less than 30 miles away. These resources ensure families and learners have ample educational opportunities in and near the city.
Public Schools
Name:
Fostoria Junior/Senior High School
Street:
1001 Park Ave
Phone:
419-436-4110
Students:
610
Student Teacher Ratio:
16.9
Name:
Fostoria Intermediate Elementary School
Street:
1001 Park Ave
Phone:
419-436-4125
Students:
520
Student Teacher Ratio:
17.3
Private Schools
Name:
St. Wendelin Catholic School
Street:
533 N Countyline St
Phone:
419-435-8144
Students:
130
Colleges
Name:
Terra State Community College
City:
Fremont
State:
OH
Distance:
27 miles
Students:
2,100
Name:
Bowling Green State University
City:
Bowling Green
State:
OH
Distance:
28 miles
Students:
17,600
Healthcare
Healthcare in Fostoria is anchored by ProMedica Fostoria Community Hospital, offering general and emergency services within city limits. With 1.8 physicians per 1,000 residents and over 92% of people having health insurance, access to medical care is reliable for most families. The healthcare index suggests costs remain reasonable for the region.
Major Hospitals
Name:
ProMedica Fostoria Community Hospital
Address:
501 Van Buren St, Fostoria, OH 44830
Phone:
(419) 435-7734
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.8
Health Insurance Coverage:
92.1%
Health Care Index:
68.5
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Fostoria, OH?
Fostoria’s housing market is highly accessible, with a median home price of $98,500 and owner-occupancy at over 62%. Rental vacancies are moderate at nearly 7%, and home values have appreciated by just over 3% in the past year, indicating steady but affordable growth. Foreclosure rates and new construction remain low, supporting stable neighborhood environments.
Median Home Price:
$98,500
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$750
Owner Occupied Rate:
62.6%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
6.8%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
3.1%
New Construction Rate:
0.7%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.6%
DMV Information
Residents can access Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles services at the nearby Findlay location, covering licensing, registration, and title needs. The office is conveniently located within a short drive, and online resources are available via the state BMV website. Helpful staff and accessible hours make managing vehicle requirements straightforward for Fostoria locals.
State:
Ohio
Department:
Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles
Address:
445 Liberty St, Findlay, OH 45840
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.