Lorain: The Data Profile (2026)

Lorain, Ohio, presents a complex statistical profile for potential relocators in the post-remote work landscape. With a population of 65,330, it functions as a micro-city with a distinct economic disadvantage relative to national averages. The primary data point driving the cost-of-living advantage is the income disparity: the median household income sits at $41,480, which is 44.4% lower than the US median of $74,580. This wage suppression is reflected in the educational attainment metrics, where only 17.5% of residents hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.1%.

The statistical target demographic for Lorain is the cost-sensitive remote worker or the manufacturing/logistics professional. For remote workers earning near the national median, the local purchasing power is significantly amplified. However, for local earners, the economic ceiling is restrictive. The city offers a high-value proposition for those importing income, but a challenging environment for those relying on local wage structures.

Cost of Living Analysis

While the "Cost of Living Index" often cites 100.0 across the board (Housing, Groceries, Transportation, Healthcare), implying parity with the US average, the reality is a divergence between index values and absolute costs. The critical differentiator is utility costs, where Lorain’s electricity rate of $0.1599 per kWh is statistically identical to the US average of $0.1600, offering no relief there.

However, the low median income forces a recalibration of disposable income. A single earner requires a significantly lower salary to maintain the same standard of living found in higher-cost cities.

Table 1: Cost of Living Breakdown (Monthly Budgets)

Disposable Income Analysis: To achieve a 20% savings rate, a single person needs a gross income of approximately $30,000. A family of four requires roughly $60,000. This is 19.8% lower than the national break-even point, making Lorain a strategic location for households earning between $60k-$80k who struggle in major metros.

Housing Market Deep Dive

The housing market in Lorain is defined by stability and median-line pricing. The Median Home Price of $185,000 is statistically identical to the US Average of $185,000 (0.0% difference). However, the value lies in the "Price per Square Foot" ($125), which is 13.8% cheaper than the national average ($145), indicating larger home sizes for the same price point.

Renting is a viable option, with 1-bedroom units at $913, exactly 22.8% cheaper than the US average of $1,183. The Housing Index of 100.0 confirms the market is priced at national parity, not a discount. For buyers, the market is neutral; for renters, it offers a slight arbitrage opportunity.

Table 2: Housing Market Data (Buying vs Renting Analysis)

Buy vs. Rent Verdict: The "Price-to-Rent Ratio" (Median Home / Annual Rent for 1BR) is 16.9 ($185,000 / ($913 * 12)). Generally, a ratio above 21 favors renting. At 16.9, the math leans slightly toward buying for long-term residents (3+ years), as the monthly cost of ownership (mortgage + taxes) is likely close to the $913 rent, but with equity accumulation.

Economic & Job Market Outlook

The post-remote economy affects Lorain differently than coastal hubs. With a local unemployment rate of 4.5% (slightly above the US average of 4.0%), the city relies heavily on manufacturing, steel, and logistics. The RTO (Return to Office) mandate has not impacted Lorain significantly, as it lacks a dense corporate HQ district.

Commute Analysis: The average commute time is 22 minutes, significantly lower than the national average of 27 minutes. This saves the average worker approximately 10 hours per month in transit time. However, the income ceiling remains the primary economic risk factor. Industry stability is moderate; while the unemployment rate is stable, the lack of high-education sectors (17.5% college educated) limits high-salary growth opportunities to remote roles only.

Quality of Life Audit

The Quality of Life metrics in Lorain present a significant health warning. The aggregate Health Score of 72.8/100 is rated "FAIR," driven by alarming risk factors. The Obesity Rate of 42.9% is 11.0 percentage points higher than the US average (31.9%). Similarly, the Diabetes Rate of 18.5% is nearly double the national average (10.9%).

Air quality is acceptable but not pristine. The AQI (Air Quality Index) of 52 falls into the "Moderate" category, while PM2.5 levels sit at 10.0 µg/m³, just meeting the EPA's "Safe" standard of 12.0 µg/m³. Safety is a concern; violent crime rates are 48% higher than the national average.

Table 3: Quality of Life Metrics

Weather Summary: The current climate is harsh. With a temperature of 41.0°F and conditions of "Rain and Snow," the transition seasons are volatile. The low of 15°F today indicates a need for robust winter preparation.

The Verdict

Pros:

• Housing Value: You get 13.8% more square footage for the national median price.
• Rent Arbitrage: Rent is 22.8% below the US average.
• Commute: Average commute is 5 minutes faster than the national norm.
• Remote Leverage: Earning a national salary here results in high purchasing power.

Cons:

• Health Crisis: Extremely high rates of obesity (42.9%) and diabetes (18.5%) reflect systemic lifestyle and healthcare access issues.
• Income Ceiling: Local wages are 44.4% lower than the US average; career growth is limited without remote work.
• Crime: Violent crime is 48% higher than the national average.
• Education: Low college attainment (17.5%) suggests a lack of professional networking opportunities.

Final Recommendation:
Lorain is a Buy/Rent for Value city, not a Live for Lifestyle city. It is highly recommended for remote workers earning >$70k or logistics/manufacturing professionals. It is not recommended for career-focused professionals relying on local job markets, or for families prioritizing health metrics and school quality.

FAQs

1. What salary is needed to live comfortably in Lorain?
For a single person, a salary of $45,000 allows for a comfortable lifestyle with savings, given the low rent of $913. For a family of four, $70,000 is the threshold for stability.

2. How does the value proposition compare to other cities?
Lorain offers housing parity ($185,000 median) but at a 13.8% discount per square foot compared to the US average. While it lacks the amenities of a major metro, the cost savings on rent (-22.8%) are significant.

3. Are the safety statistics accurate?
Yes. The data indicates a Violent Crime rate of 510 per 100k residents, which is 48% higher than the national average. Prospective residents should research specific neighborhoods extensively.

4. Is the current weather representative of the year?
The current temperature of 41.0°F with snow is typical for winter. Lorain experiences four distinct seasons, with summers averaging 82°F and winters frequently dropping below 20°F.