When people look for a place to call home, two questions rise to the top. Can we afford it, and are the schools strong enough for our kids? In 2025, Ohio has cities that answer both.
Here are some of the best places in the state for families who want affordable homes and good schools.
1. Dayton, Ohio
| Median home value (2025) | ~$185,000 |
| Median sale price | ~$195,000 |
| Year-over-year price change | +2.3% |
| Price per square foot | ~$105 |
| School district | Dayton City School District |
Best Schools in Dayton
- Oakwood High School (Oakwood suburb)
- Centerville High School (Centerville suburb)
- Stivers School for the Arts (within Dayton)
Housing Overview
Dayton is one of the most affordable large cities in Ohio. Families can purchase a full house here for under $200,000, which is far below the state’s metro averages.
Homes generally sell in just over one month, and the lower cost per square foot makes Dayton attractive for first-time buyers and families who need space on a limited budget. Affordability, however, also reflects limited demand compared to suburbs with stronger schools.
Community Overview
Dayton combines a history rooted in manufacturing with signs of renewal in its downtown and cultural scene. Families often mention museums, parks, and community arts programs as key features. The city feels divided between low-cost housing within the district and higher-performing schools just outside.
Numbers tell part of the story, but real decisions depend on daily life. The best way to understand Dayton neighborhoods is to interview a local through a real estate agency or even speak with residents who are selling their homes.
2. Perrysburg, Ohio
| Median home value (2025) | ~$378,000 |
| Median sold home price | ~$360,000 |
| School district | Perrysburg Exempted Village School District |
Best Schools in Perrysburg
- Perrysburg High School
- Perrysburg Junior High School
- Fort Meigs Elementary School
Housing Overview
Perrysburg stands out as one of the stronger housing markets in northwest Ohio. Property values remain stable, and new developments continue to attract families. The cost of housing is higher than in nearby towns, yet many buyers accept this because of the long-term value and security.
Community Overview
The city offers a safe environment with active parent involvement in schools and local programs. Community events and sports remain central to family life. Perrysburg balances the character of a smaller city with access to Toledo, making it attractive for families seeking stability.
3. Strongsville, Ohio
| Median home value (2025) | ~$355,759 |
| Median listing price | ~$370,000 |
| School district | Strongsville City School District |
Best Schools in Strongsville
- Strongsville High School
- Strongsville Middle School
- Kinsner Elementary School
Housing Overview
Strongsville’s housing market is competitive, with homes selling quickly and prices showing consistent growth. Families often face higher costs, but the strong demand provides confidence in long-term value.
Community Overview
Located southwest of Cleveland, Strongsville provides suburban living with convenient access to city jobs and services. Families benefit from reliable schools, recreational spaces, and a broad range of youth programs. The community has built a reputation for safety and opportunity, making it a secure choice for long-term family life.
4. Medina, Ohio
| Median home value (2025) | ~$371,885 |
| Median listing price | ~$375,000 |
| School district | Medina City School District |
Best Schools in Medina
- Medina High School
- Claggett Middle School
- Ella Canavan Elementary School
Housing Overview
Medina sits on the edge of the Cleveland metro and offers larger homes with suburban comfort. Prices are higher than in some Ohio cities, but families see value in the space and the character of older neighborhoods mixed with new developments.
Community Overview
Medina has a historic square, local shops, and a family-friendly atmosphere. Events on the square bring residents together, and the city keeps a balance between growth and small-town charm. Families describe Medina as calm but well-connected.
Parents often choose Medina because the schools maintain a strong record and the neighborhoods feel stable.
5. Mentor, Ohio
| Median home value (2025) | ~$268,527 |
| Median sale price | ~$270,000 |
| School district | Mentor Exempted Village School District |
Best Schools in Mentor
- Mentor High School
- Ridge Middle School
- Hopkins Elementary School
Housing Overview
Mentor sits along Lake Erie east of Cleveland and offers affordable homes with access to both water and city life. Prices remain moderate, making it one of the more accessible markets for families in northern Ohio.
Community Overview
Families in Mentor enjoy lake access, parks, and a range of shopping and services. The city blends suburban living with recreation on the water, giving residents both convenience and open space.
Mentor is attractive for families who want a balance of affordability and location. The schools do not rank as high as those in Perrysburg or Strongsville, but they remain dependable.
6. Beavercreek, Ohio
| Median home value (2025) | ~$326,645 |
| Median listing price | ~$330,000 |
| School district | Beavercreek City School District |
Best Schools in Beavercreek
- Beavercreek High School
- Coy Middle School
- Trebein Elementary School
Housing Overview
Beavercreek is one of the most sought-after suburbs near Dayton. Homes cost more than inside the city but remain affordable compared to larger metro areas. Families often move here for bigger yards and newer developments.
Community Overview
The city offers a safe environment with shopping centers, parks, and short drives to Dayton jobs.
Schools have a strong reputation, and graduation rates remain among the highest in the region.
7. Sylvania, Ohio
| Median home value (2025) | ~$318,794 |
| Median listing price | ~$320,000 |
| School district | Sylvania City School District |
Best Schools in Sylvania
- Southview High School
- Northview High School
- Maplewood Elementary School
Housing Overview
Sylvania is a suburb of Toledo that draws families for its stable housing market and safe neighborhoods. Prices stay moderate compared to larger metro areas, making it a practical choice for buyers who want both affordability and quality.
Community Overview
Families value Sylvania for its green spaces, local parks, and easy access to Toledo jobs and services. The city maintains a quiet feel with plenty of family-centered programs.
Sylvania is the kind of place where families know they can grow roots. The schools perform well, and housing prices remain manageable.
8. Springboro, Ohio
| Median home value (2025) | ~$416,733 |
| Median listing price | ~$420,000 |
| School district | Springboro Community City School District |
Best Schools in Springboro
- Springboro High School
- Springboro Junior High School
- Dennis Elementary School
Housing Overview
Springboro sits between Dayton and Cincinnati, and that location drives demand. Homes here cost more than in surrounding towns, but families are drawn to the district’s strong performance and community stability.
Community Overview
The city balances small-town charm with suburban convenience. Families enjoy organized youth sports, local events, and quick access to major highways for commuting.
Springboro is competitive, but for families who can afford the higher prices, it delivers on both schools and lifestyle.
9. Hilliard, Ohio
| Median home value (2025) | ~$385,897 |
| Median listing price | ~$390,000 |
| School district | Hilliard City School District |
Best Schools in Hilliard
- Hilliard Darby High School
- Hilliard Bradley High School
- Ridgewood Elementary School
Housing Overview
Hilliard, a suburb of Columbus, combines steady housing growth with access to one of the state’s largest job markets. Prices are mid-range for the metro, making it possible for families to buy into a strong area without paying top-tier Columbus costs.
Community Overview
The city is known for its family programs, recreational facilities, and safe neighborhoods. Parents appreciate the blend of suburban living with quick access to Columbus opportunities.
10. Westerville, Ohio
| Median home value (2025) | ~$449,201 |
| Median listing price | ~$450,000 |
| School district | Westerville City School District |
Best Schools in Westerville
- Westerville Central High School
- Westerville North High School
- Robert Frost Elementary School
Housing Overview
Westerville, a suburb northeast of Columbus, has one of the highest price points on this list. Families pay more here because the schools have consistent ratings, and the city offers easy access to downtown Columbus jobs. Despite higher costs, demand remains steady, and homes tend to hold their value.
Community Overview
The city offers a wide mix of cultural activities, local parks, and strong community programs. Families appreciate its safe neighborhoods and the variety of family events hosted throughout the year.
11. Brunswick, Ohio
| Median home value (2025) | ~$314,822 |
| Median listing price | ~$315,000 |
| School district | Brunswick City School District |
Best Schools in Brunswick
- Brunswick High School
- Willetts Middle School
- Towslee Elementary School
Housing Overview
Brunswick, located in Medina County, offers homes at a more affordable level compared to Strongsville and other Cleveland suburbs. Families are drawn here for lower costs while still accessing a reliable school system.
Community Overview
The city is known for its family-friendly environment, with local parks, shopping, and steady suburban development. Families appreciate the quieter lifestyle while still being close to Cleveland’s job market.
Last Words
Every family wants a home they can afford and schools they can trust. Some places offer both, others force trade-offs. Look at the numbers, walk the neighborhoods, and listen to the people who already live there. The best choice is the one that feels right the moment you step inside.