City Profile
Toledo, Ohio
USA · Comprehensive city data and intelligence
Toledo, Ohio, often referred to as 'The Glass City' due to its rich history in glass manufacturing, is a vibrant city situated at the western end of Lake Erie along the Maumee River. The city serves as a significant port on the Great Lakes and is known for its affordable living and strong sense of community. Toledo has been recognized for its economic development efforts, with significant investments in revitalizing its downtown area and fostering new businesses. Its strategic location offers residents access to major metropolitan areas like Detroit and Ann Arbor, while maintaining a distinct local character. The city attracts individuals and families seeking a balance of urban amenities, cultural attractions, and access to natural spaces.
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.
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Cost of Living
Toledo boasts a notably affordable cost of living, standing approximately 5% lower than the national average. This affordability extends across various aspects of daily life, including housing, which is significantly less expensive compared to many other U.S. cities. While housing costs are a major driver of Toledo's affordability, other expenses like groceries are also generally lower than the national average. However, some costs, such as utilities, are comparable to or slightly higher than national averages. The city's overall cost-effectiveness makes it an attractive option for those looking to maximize their budget without compromising on access to urban amenities.
Income
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Toledo's economy is undergoing a period of revitalization and diversification, with key industries including Health Care & Social Assistance, Manufacturing, and Retail Trade being major employers. The city has seen a positive trend in job creation, with employment growing at a rate of 0.841% from 2023 to 2024. Notably, Toledo gained 2,000 jobs in April 2026, contributing to an average of 152 new jobs per month over the past five years. The glass and solar industries are experiencing significant growth, bolstered by substantial investments and grants aimed at fostering innovation and creating new jobs. Toledo's commitment to fostering a strong business environment has earned it recognition among the top 10 cities nationally for new business investment in 2024.
The average salary in Toledo is $71,000 per year. You would need approximately $52,000 to live comfortably.
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Transport
Getting around Toledo largely relies on personal vehicles, as indicated by a high car dependency. Most errands typically require a car. The average commute time for workers in Toledo was 19.8 minutes in 2024, which is shorter than the national average. While public transit options exist through the Toledo Area Regional Transit Authority (TARTA), their coverage can be limited. However, TARTA has reported increased ridership and improved services in 2025, demonstrating ongoing efforts to enhance mobility. The city has an average Walk Score of 46, suggesting that some areas are walkable, particularly downtown neighborhoods.
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