Cincinnati, OH vs. Fairfield, OH: Cost of Living Comparison (2025)
Which city gives you more for your money – Cincinnati or Fairfield? This article provides a detailed cost of living comparison to help families relocating, professionals choosing between job offers, or anyone comparing the real-life expenses of living in these two Ohio cities in 2025.
1. Housing Costs
Housing is often the biggest factor in cost of living differences. Here’s how typical housing expenses compare in Cincinnati vs Fairfield:
| Housing Type | Cincinnati | Fairfield |
|---|---|---|
| Median Home Price | $325,000 | $285,000 |
| Mortgage Payment (20% down) | $1,550/mo | $1,375/mo |
| 2BR Apartment Rent | $1,450/mo | $1,250/mo |
🏆 Winner: Fairfield. A household moving from Cincinnati to Fairfield might save $200-300 per month on housing alone.
2. Utilities and Energy Costs
Utility bills are fairly similar between the two cities, with Fairfield having a slight edge:
- Cincinnati: $180-220/mo (higher in summer for A/C)
- Fairfield: $160-200/mo
Both cities offer budget billing and off-peak discounts to help manage costs.
🏆 Winner: Fairfield, but only by about $20/month on average.
3. Groceries and Daily Expenses
Grocery prices and everyday goods are nearly identical in Cincinnati and Fairfield. Expect to budget around $350-450 per person monthly for food, toiletries, and basic household items in either city.
Eating out is also comparable, with a nice dinner for two ranging from $50-80 in both places.
🏆 Winner: Tie. No significant difference in grocery or daily living costs.
4. Taxes and Fees
Property taxes are notably higher in Cincinnati, averaging 1.5% vs Fairfield’s 1.2% rate. For a $300K home, that’s a difference of $900 per year.
Both cities charge similar income tax rates around 2%. Fairfield has slightly lower water/sewer fees and vehicle registration costs.
🏆 Winner: Fairfield. Lower property taxes can add up to substantial savings for homeowners.
5. Cost Summary Table
| Expense | Cincinnati | Fairfield |
|---|---|---|
| Housing (3BR home) | $1,550 | $1,375 |
| Utilities | $200 | $180 |
| Groceries (2 people) | $700 | $700 |
| Transportation | $200 | $250 |
| Taxes & Fees | $450 | $375 |
| Misc Expenses | $400 | $400 |
| Estimated Monthly Total | $3,500 | $3,280 |
6. Lifestyle Fit
While Fairfield offers lower housing costs and taxes, Cincinnati provides more urban amenities, walkability, and public transit. Fairfield is ideal for those prioritizing space and privacy.
Cincinnati averages 5°F colder in winter than Fairfield. Both cities enjoy pleasant springs and colorful autumns.
7. FAQ
Q: Is Cincinnati more affordable than Fairfield?
A: Overall, Fairfield has a lower cost of living, mainly due to cheaper housing and property taxes. See our Cincinnati cost of living overview for more details.
Q: Which city has lower rent?
A: Fairfield rental rates are about 10-15% lower than Cincinnati on average. Budget around $1,250 for a typical 2BR apartment in Fairfield.
Q: Where is it cheaper to buy a home?
A: Median home prices in Fairfield are roughly $40,000 less than Cincinnati. Factor in higher property taxes in Cincinnati as well.
8. Conclusion
While both Cincinnati and Fairfield offer a high quality of life, Fairfield comes out ahead in terms of overall affordability. Homebuyers and renters can expect to pay less in Fairfield.
However, Cincinnati may be worth the premium for those desiring a more vibrant urban lifestyle and convenient amenities. As always, your personal preferences and monthly budget should guide your choice.
Planning a move to either city? Compare moving company costs to find the best deal and start your journey smoothly. Whichever you choose, both Cincinnati and Fairfield provide a welcoming home in Ohio!