Central Ohio, OH demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
1,220,156
1.6% year-over-year change
Median household income
$90,599/yr
5.1% year-over-year change
Housing units
488,893
1.6% year-over-year change

Central Ohio population

How many people live in Central Ohio

Central Ohio is home to 1,220,156 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 49.6% of Central Ohio locals are male, and 50.4% are female.

Total population
1,220,156
1.6% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
49.6%
605,433
Female
50.4%
614,723
Value Percent YoY change
Male 605,433 49.6% 1.4%
Female 614,723 50.4% 1.9%
A higher population often means more rental variety and livelier areas. The gender balance—how many men live here compared to women—can reveal a lot about the community and the lifestyles of its residents. Use this info to get a sense of the area's pace and personality.

Age demographics

The median age in Central Ohio is 40, with the population distributed as follows: about 20% are children under 15, then 11.8% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 27.4% of the population, while another 25.6% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 15.2% are 65 or older.

Median age
39.5
Age breakdown
Under 15
20%
15 to 24
11.8%
25 to 44
27.4%
45 to 64
25.6%
Over 65
15.2%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 244,692 20% 0.9%
15 to 24 143,323 11.8% 1.6%
25 to 44 333,671 27.4% 1.7%
45 to 64 312,438 25.6% 0.5%
Over 65 186,032 15.2% 4.7%
The age composition helps you get insight into who lives in the area. A younger population might mean a more active, fast-paced vibe, while an older one could suggest a quieter, slower lifestyle. If there's a balanced makeup, you’re likely to find a variety of services, housing types, and community spaces that cater to different life stages.

Racial makeup

In Central Ohio, 90.8% of the population are US-born citizens, while 5.7% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 3.5% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 77.7% of locals are Caucasian, 8.6% are African American and 5.6% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 6.3% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
90.8%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
5.7%
Non-citizens
3.5%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 1,108,003 90.8% 1.1%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 69,329 5.7% 7.8%
Non-citizens 42,824 3.5% 8.0%
Racial breakdown
White
77.7%
Black or African American
8.6%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.1%
Asian
5.6%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
6.3%
Other
1.6%
Value Percent
White 948,067 77.7%
Black or African American 104,871 8.6%
American Indian and Alaska Native 1,412 0.1%
Asian 68,953 5.6%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 366 0%
Two or more races 77,256 6.3%
Other 19,232 1.6%

Households in Central Ohio

A peek inside Central Ohio households

Central Ohio has 463,737 households, with an average of 3 members in each. Of these, 69.2% are families, while the remaining 30.8% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
463,737
1.4% year-over-year change
Average people per household
3
Non-family households
143,038
Family households
320,699
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 143,038 30.8% 1.7%
Family households 320,699 69.2% 1.3%
The mix between family and non-family households gives a glimpse into daily life. A higher percentage of families might mean more parks and schools, while more non-family setups can mean flexible housing and diverse living styles. For renters, this can signal what kinds of homes are common and can help you figure out if the area matches your lifestyle.

Housing in Central Ohio

The housing landscape of Central Ohio

Central Ohio's housing consists of 488,893 units, with 69.6% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 7% and offer a more compact, shared living style. Then there are the multifamily buildings in the area, and for those seeking flexibility, non-traditional options like mobile homes account for 2.6% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
488,893
1.6% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 340,308 69.6%
1 unit, attached 34,334 7%
2 units 9,015 1.8%
3 or 4 units 23,955 4.9%
5 to 9 units 30,040 6.1%
10 to 19 units 17,340 3.6%
20 to 49 units 8,551 1.8%
50 or more units 12,105 2.5%
Mobile home 12,752 2.6%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 494 0.1%
Homes built since 2020
14,891
69.1% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Central Ohio

In Central Ohio, the median construction year is 1982. About 9.2% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 1.8% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 19.5% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 12.1% between 2010 and 2019, and 3% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 44,850 9.2% -1.1%
Built between 1940 and 1949 8,867 1.8% -7.2%
Built between 1950 and 1959 27,093 5.5% -1.4%
Built between 1960 and 1969 32,616 6.7% 1.7%
Built between 1970 and 1979 57,579 11.8% -1.7%
Built between 1980 and 1989 56,339 11.5% 1.6%
Built between 1990 and 1999 91,989 18.8% -1.9%
Built between 2000 and 2009 95,535 19.5% 0.7%
Built between 2010 and 2019 59,134 12.1% 6.6%
Built in 2020 or later 14,891 3% 69.1%
As a renter, knowing when homes were built helps you understand the potential condition and design of rental units. Newer builds may have more contemporary layouts, while older homes can offer character or larger lots, depending on the area.

Central Ohio occupancy rates

Out of the 463,737 occupied housing units in Central Ohio, 71.6% are owner-occupied, while 28.4% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 5.1% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
463,737
1.4% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
131,775
Owner occupied
331,963
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 131,775 28.4% 0.4%
Owner occupied 331,963 71.6% 1.8%
Unoccupied housing units
5.1%
Unoccupied housing units refer to homes that are currently without residents—whether they're waiting for renters or owners, used seasonally, or simply unclaimed. A higher share of empty homes may mean more housing availability, while a low number can reflect a tighter market with more competition. This, along with the renter-vs.-owner mix, helps paint a clearer picture of what types of housing and services are likely to be available in the area.

Central Ohio housing costs

Housing costs in Central Ohio come to a median of $1,238 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,132.

Median housing costs per month
$1,238/month
This figure sums up typical monthly housing costs for all households in the area. If you own, it includes mortgage payments in addition to property taxes, insurance and HOA fees. If you rent, it accounts for rent plus extras like utilities. It’s useful for seeing how local living expenses stack up compared to other places.
Median gross rent in Central Ohio
$1,132/month
Gross rent gives a more complete look at what renters actually pay, including not just base rent, but also utilities and fees. It’s a key number for evaluating rental affordability in your area of interest and understanding how it compares to nearby locations.

Education in Central Ohio

Central Ohio education at a glance

About 32% of the population in Central Ohio went to high school, while 19.9% pursued college studies. Another 7.5% earned an associate degree and 24.6% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 14.1% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 17,529 1.9% 11.4%
High school diploma 295,785 32% 0.5%
College diploma 184,026 19.9% 1.4%
Associate degree 68,897 7.5% 0.4%
Bachelor's degree 227,568 24.6% 2.7%
Graduate degree 130,250 14.1% 3.6%
A community’s education mix can offer insights into the local economy and housing market. Higher levels of education often align with more job opportunities and stable incomes, which can increase demand for homes and influence both rent prices and rental availability.

Income in Central Ohio

How much people earn in Central Ohio

The average annual household income in Central Ohio was $112,111 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +3.3% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $90,599, reflecting a +5.1% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Central Ohio
$112,111/year
3.3% year-over-year change
Median household income in Central Ohio
$90,599/year
5.1% year-over-year change

Central Ohio income by age

In Central Ohio, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $104,792. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $107,161 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $54,420, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $59,333 in earnings. Overall, 92.1% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $54,420 -7.0%
25 - 44 $104,792 6.8%
45 - 64 $107,161 2.6%
Over 65 $59,333 -2.9%
Above poverty level
1,085,598
Below poverty level
93,094
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 1,085,598 92.1% 1.6%
Below poverty level 93,094 7.9% 3.1%

Employment in Central Ohio

Workforce and job types in Central Ohio

81.4% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 18.6% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 8.5% run their own businesses, 67.7% are employed by private companies, and 14.6% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

White collar
510,033
Blue collar
116,861
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 510,033 81.4% 1.5%
Blue collar 116,861 18.6% 0.3%
Employer type
Self employees
8.5%
Private companies
67.7%
Governmental workers
14.6%
Not for profit companies
9.2%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 53,037 8.5% 0.6%
Private companies 424,583 67.7% 1.5%
Governmental workers 91,595 14.6% 0.8%
Not for profit companies 57,678 9.2% 0.7%

Transportation in Central Ohio

How people get around in Central Ohio

In Central Ohio, the average commute time is 393 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 97.9% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 1.4% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
393 min
-7.8% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 478,755 97.9% -1.6%
Taxicab 680 0.1% 6.2%
Bus or trolleybus 1,413 0.3% -11.5%
Railroad 3 0% N/A
Ferryboat 45 0% 80.0%
Motorcycle 348 0.1% 10.5%
Bicycle 670 0.1% 15.3%
Walk 7,065 1.4% 4.1%
Understanding how locals get to work can help you plan your own routine. High car usage might mean you’ll need a vehicle, while strong public transit or walkability could save you the hassle. Commute times also play a big role in quality of life—shorter trips can give you more time for the things you enjoy.

What is the median and average household income in Central Ohio by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
43001 2,892 1,132 $93,804 $107,185
43002 1,205 577 $102,153 $137,384
43003 3,723 1,481 $69,852 $100,216
43004 31,477 11,419 $101,175 $137,627
43008 2,434 1,014 $88,558 $99,867
43013 1,754 595 $131,528 $144,594
43015 61,401 22,732 $105,322 $131,972
43016 46,362 19,048 $109,972 $151,363
43017 41,613 16,148 $135,922 $178,766
43021 14,403 4,710 $167,941 $210,623

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FAQs about Central Ohio demographics 

What is the total population of Central Ohio?

Central Ohio has a total population of 1,220,156 residents, according to the latest release from the U.S. Census Bureau: the 2019-2023 American Community Survey (ACS) 5-year estimates. This figure changed by +1.6% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Central Ohio?

The gender ratio in Central Ohio is as follows:
  • 49.6% males (605,433 residents)
  • 50.4% females (614,723 residents)

What is the median age in Central Ohio?

The median age in Central Ohio is 39.5.

What is the age distribution of the population in Central Ohio?

The age distribution in Central Ohio is as follows:
  • Under 15: 20% (244,692 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 11.8% (143,323 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 27.4% (333,671 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 25.6% (312,438 residents)
  • Over 65: 15.2% (186,032 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Central Ohio?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Central Ohio is as follows:
  • White: 77.7% (948,067 residents)
  • Black or African American: 8.6% (104,871 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.1% (1,412 residents)
  • Asian: 5.6% (68,953 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (366 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 6.3% (77,256 residents)
  • Other: 1.6% (19,232 residents)

What percentage of the population in Central Ohio are U.S.-born citizens?

U.S.-born citizens represent 90.8% of the population in Central Ohio.

How many housing units are there in Central Ohio?

There are 488,893 housing units in Central Ohio, reflecting a +1.6% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

How many households are in Central Ohio and what is the average household size?

Central Ohio has a total of 463,737 households, with an average of 3 people in each.

What is the median household income in Central Ohio?

Central Ohio has a median household income of $90,599, representing a +5.1% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the job market overview for Central Ohio?

Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 81.4% (510,033 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 18.6% (116,861 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 8.5% (53,037 residents)
  • Private companies: 67.7% (424,583 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 14.6% (91,595 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 9.2% (57,678 residents)

Data source & methodology

The demographic data on this page was sourced from the latest U.S. Census Bureau release—the 2019–2023 American Community Survey (ACS) 5-year estimates.

The information, issued annually, is compiled and published by the Point2Homes Research Team as soon as new data becomes available.

No representation, guarantee, or warranty is made concerning the accuracy or completeness of modified or aggregated information for particular areas.

Page last updated: September 2025