City Profile
Elyria, Ohio
USA · Comprehensive city data and intelligence
Elyria, Ohio, is a city known for its warm hospitality and strong community spirit, situated in the northeastern part of the state within Lorain County. Founded in 1817 by Heman Ely, the city offers a blend of close-knit town living with access to urban amenities, being a principal city in the Cleveland metro area. Its strategic location, approximately 10 miles south of Lake Erie and traversed by the Black River, provides both natural beauty and convenient access to major highways like I-90, I-80, and Ohio State Route 57. Elyria is often considered an attractive destination for families and young professionals seeking affordable homes and a manageable commute.
The city's character is shaped by its historical roots and a community-oriented atmosphere. Residents often describe Elyria as a friendly place with a small-town feel, where many people know each other. This sense of community, combined with a lower cost of living compared to national averages, makes Elyria a compelling option for those looking for quality of life without the high expenses of larger metropolitan areas. The city's appeal also lies in its array of local amenities, including restaurants, grocery stores, and parks, which contribute to a convenient and vibrant daily life.
Ohio, located in the Midwest, is characterized by a blend of urban centers and rural landscapes, offering a balance of city amenities and small-town charm. The state's economy is robust and diverse, with manufacturing being a significant sector, particularly in plastics, rubber, fabricated metals, and automobiles. Other major industries include financial activities, healthcare, education, and bioscience, with growing technology and logistics sectors. Living in Ohio is generally affordable, with the cost of living, especially housing, being lower than the national average. The climate is continental, featuring four distinct seasons with hot, humid summers and cold, snowy winters, and precipitation occurring year-round.
How this 59/100 was calculated five components, with every reading behind them
| Component | Readings used | Points | Weight | Contributes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Safety | Safety score: 47 / 100 | 47.0 | 30% | 14.1 |
| Affordability | Cost of living index (100 = national baseline): 94.0 | 51.3 | 25% | 12.8 |
| Economy & jobs | Median household income: $54,945 Income needed to live here: $30,516 Unemployment rate: 3.4% | 91.3 | 20% | 18.3 |
| Growth | No usable reading — dataset average used | 56.4 | 15% | 8.5 |
| Business climate assessment | Business climate assessment: 50 / 100 | 50.0 | 10% | 5.0 |
| Overall score | 58.6 | |||
Provenance.
These figures were produced by the research pass recorded as
Gemini (Tier 2 (reasoned), q=93 ✓ perfect), last refreshed
3 July 2026.
They are researched estimates drawn from public sources, not a licensed data feed.
Each component is scored against fixed published endpoints, so this number is comparable with any other city and does not move as the dataset grows. Scoring framework 2026.10 — full methodology, weights and accepted ranges.
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Performance
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Expenses
Cost of Living
The cost of living in Elyria, Ohio, is notably affordable when compared to the national average, making it an attractive location for individuals and families. The cost of living index for the Cleveland-Elyria metro area stands at 93.7, indicating that it is approximately 6.3% less expensive than the rest of the United States. This affordability extends across various essential expenses, including housing, transportation, and everyday consumer goods.
While housing costs are significantly lower than the national average, other expenses like utilities and food contribute to the overall budget. For instance, the average monthly utility bill in Elyria was reported around $248.54 in early 2026. Despite these costs, the overall economic landscape allows for a higher quality of life due to the substantial savings on housing, which is often the largest household expense. This makes Elyria a viable option for those looking to maximize their budget without sacrificing access to necessary services and amenities.
Income
Salary Insights
Elyria's job market is characterized by a mix of established industries, though it faces some challenges in employment growth. As of 2024, the most common employment sectors for residents include Manufacturing, Health Care & Social Assistance, and Retail Trade. These industries form the backbone of the local economy, providing a significant number of jobs within the city and surrounding areas. The employed population in Elyria experienced a slight decline of 0.1% between 2023 and 2024, suggesting a stable but not rapidly expanding job market.
The average salary for an employee in Elyria was reported to be $78,000 as of June 2026, with a median wage of $39,900 per year. The unemployment rate in Elyria stood at 3.4% in 2026, which is lower than the national average. While the city offers various job opportunities, particularly in the healthcare and manufacturing sectors, some assessments indicate a lower score for the overall employment environment, suggesting areas for potential growth and development.
The average salary in Elyria is $78,000 per year. You would need approximately $30,516 to live comfortably.
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Weather
Climate
Mobility
Transport
Transportation in Elyria is largely car-dependent, reflecting a common trend in many American cities. In 2024, approximately 80.5% of workers in Elyria drove alone to work, with 91.6% of residents relying on personal vehicles for commuting. The average commute time for residents is around 22.6 minutes, which is shorter than the national average.
Public transportation options are available through the Lorain County Transit System (LCT), which operates four routes through the city. However, the reliance on personal vehicles indicates that public transit may not be as comprehensive or widely utilized as in larger metropolitan areas. The city's walkability score is relatively low at 13 out of 100, suggesting that most errands and daily activities require a car. Despite this, Elyria's network of major highways facilitates easy travel to surrounding communities and the greater Cleveland area.
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Community Q&A
Questions about Elyria
What people ask about living in and moving to Elyria, Ohio.
What are the main industries hiring in Elyria?
Elyria’s job market is anchored by manufacturing, healthcare, and retail, with a growing presence of service‑oriented businesses. The average annual salary in the city is around $78,000, indicating a relatively strong earnings level compared with the national average. Job seekers should explore the city’s employment board, regional workforce development agencies, and local business directories for openings in factori...
How do public schools in Elyria rank academically?
Elyria’s public schools are part of a larger district that offers a range of elementary, middle, and high school options. While exact rankings can fluctuate, the district’s performance metrics are generally in line with state averages. Parents can review school report cards, standardized test scores, and graduation rates on the state education department’s website or the district’s own portal. Visiting schools during...
Is Elyria considered a safe place to live?
Elyria’s safety score is 47.0 out of 100, which places it below the national average for perceived safety. This score reflects a combination of reported crimes, law‑enforcement resources, and community surveys. Prospective residents should review recent crime statistics on the state’s public safety website or the city’s police department dashboard for neighborhood‑specific data. It’s also helpful to talk with current...
What utilities should I set up before moving to Elyria?
When relocating to Elyria, you’ll need to arrange electricity, natural gas (if applicable), water, sewage, and internet/phone services. The city’s utility providers list contact numbers and online portals on the municipal website, where you can request service start dates and review any connection fees. It’s a good practice to schedule these setups at least two weeks before your move-in date to avoid service gaps. Ad...
What is the typical rent for a one‑bedroom apartment in Elyria?
In Elytria the average rent for a standard one‑bedroom unit is about $917 per month. This figure reflects the overall market and can vary depending on the exact location, age of the building, and amenities offered. Newer complexes or units closer to the city center may command higher rates, while older properties or those farther out might be lower. To get a current sense of availability and pricing, check online ren...
Where can I find primary care doctors and hospitals in Elyria?
Elyria has several medical facilities offering primary care, urgent care, and emergency services. The city’s health department maintains a directory of licensed physicians and clinics, which can be accessed online. For emergency care, the local hospital’s emergency department is the primary facility, and its contact information is listed on the city’s public health page. Residents often use health‑insurance provider...
What recreational activities are popular in Elyria?
Elyria offers a variety of outdoor and cultural activities suitable for families. The city maintains parks, walking trails, and community recreation centers that host sports leagues, classes, and seasonal events. For cultural experiences, the local library system and community arts programs provide workshops, performances, and exhibitions. Information on upcoming festivals, farmer’s markets, and youth programs can be...
How does the overall cost of living in Elyria compare to the national average?
Elyria’s cost‑of‑living index is 94, meaning it is slightly below the national average of 100. This lower index reflects more affordable housing, groceries, and transportation costs relative to many other U.S. cities. With an average rent of $917 per month and an average annual salary of $78,000, many residents find that their earnings stretch further for everyday expenses. To create a detailed budget, consider using...
What public transportation options are available in Elyria?
Elyria is served by a regional transit authority that operates bus routes connecting the city to nearby suburbs and the larger metropolitan area. Schedules, route maps, and fare information are posted on the transit authority’s website and at major stops. For those who prefer a more flexible option, the city also supports a network of bike lanes and shared‑ride programs. Checking the city’s transportation department...
Some answers here were drafted as a starting point and may be out of date. Live in Elyria? Add your own.
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Senior Care in Elyria
8 assisted living, nursing & memory care facilities in Elyria.
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The AbbeWood
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Life Care Center Of Elyria
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Wesleyan Village Senior Living
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Senior Care
The AbbeWood
Elyria, OH
Assisted Living
Life Care Center Of Elyria
Elyria, OH
Senior Care
Wesleyan Village Senior Living
Elyria, OH
Ejq Home Health Care Inc
Elyria, OH
Ejq Home Health Care Inc
Elyria, OH
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