Amherst, OH
Population 12,796 · Ohio
About Amherst, OH
Amherst is a mid-sized city located in Ohio with a population of 12,796 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $93,043 per year, which is 24% above the national median of $75,149. The median age of 43.4 years is notably older the US median age of 38.9 years, suggesting a more established community with a higher proportion of long-term residents.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Amherst features a median home value of $222,700, which is 9% below the national median of $244,900. This positions Amherst in a moderately priced market relative to the rest of the country. Median monthly rent is $832, 28% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 5,081 total housing units, 88% are owner-occupied (4,258 units) and 12% are renter-occupied (596 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Amherst shows an unemployment rate of 4.0%, which is near the national rate of 3.7%. The poverty rate stands at 4.5%, below the national average of 12.4%, reflecting generally favorable economic conditions. Workers in Amherst have an average one-way commute time of 24.4 minutes.
Education & Demographics
32.3% of Amherst residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. This is in line with national trends in educational attainment. The community's demographic composition includes 2.5% White, 0.6% Hispanic or Latino, 3.4% Black or African American, and 0.7% Asian residents, with 4.3% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Amherst, OH
Compared to national averages, Amherst has a median household income of $93,043 (24% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $222,700, which is 9% below the national median. Monthly rent at $832 is 28% below the US average of $1,163. Within Ohio, Amherst's income is 30% above the state average of $71,814, and home values are 28% above the state median of $174,449.
Why Live in Amherst, OH?
Amherst offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $93,043, well above the national average, and affordable housing with a median home value of $222,700, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $832/month. Additionally, the city features a low poverty rate of 4.5%, better than the national average, and short commute times averaging just 24.4 minutes.
Amherst has a population of 12,796 with a median age of 43.4 years. Compare Amherst with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Ohio.
Similar Cities Near Amherst
Cities in Ohio with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Greenville | 12,748 | $46,664 | $147,200 | Compare |
| Fostoria | 12,671 | $52,943 | $81,500 | Compare |
| Wickliffe | 12,639 | $79,052 | $158,400 | Compare |
| Wilmington | 12,637 | $52,661 | $162,700 | Compare |
| Bedford | 12,960 | $56,563 | $124,900 | Compare |
| West Carrollton | 13,008 | $57,758 | $137,700 | Compare |
| Dover | 13,094 | $61,918 | $172,600 | Compare |
| Amelia | 12,482 | $69,864 | $217,500 | Compare |
Demographics
Racial & Ethnic Composition
Economy & Education
Housing
Other Cities in Ohio
Data source: US Census Bureau ACS 5-Year Estimates. Last updated: 2026-04-05.
Compare Amherst With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Amherst
What is the population of Amherst, OH?
The population of Amherst, OH is 12,796 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a mid-sized city in Ohio.
What is the median household income in Amherst?
The median household income in Amherst, OH is $93,043 per year, which is 24% above the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Amherst?
The median home value in Amherst, OH is $222,700, which is 9% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Amherst?
The median monthly rent in Amherst, OH is $832, which is 28% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Amherst?
The unemployment rate in Amherst, OH is 4.0%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Amherst, OH a good place to live?
Amherst offers above-average incomes, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 12,796 and a median age of 43.4, the city appeals to a broad range of residents.
How educated is Amherst, OH?
32.3% of residents in Amherst aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. The educational profile reflects the area's industry mix and employment landscape.
What is the cost of living in Amherst?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Amherst, OH: median home value is $222,700 (9% below national), median rent is $832/month, and median household income is $93,043. The home-value-to-income ratio is 2.4x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Amherst?
The poverty rate in Amherst, OH is 4.5%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. This below-average poverty rate reflects generally favorable economic conditions in the community.
How diverse is Amherst, OH?
Amherst's population is 2.5% White, 0.6% Hispanic or Latino, 3.4% Black or African American, 0.7% Asian, and 1.2% two or more races. 4.3% of residents are foreign-born.