Clay Center, OH
Population 367 · Ohio
About Clay Center, OH
Clay Center is a small community located in Ohio with a population of 367 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $64,750 per year, which is 14% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 32.3 years is notably younger the US median age of 38.9 years, indicating a younger, often more dynamic population base.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Clay Center features a median home value of $121,200, which is 51% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Clay Center one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $631, 46% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 137 total housing units, 85% are owner-occupied (100 units) and 15% are renter-occupied (17 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Clay Center shows an unemployment rate of 7.2%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 18.0%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Clay Center have an average one-way commute time of 26.2 minutes.
Education & Demographics
3.8% of Clay Center residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. The lower educational attainment rate may reflect the area's industry mix, with more employment in trades, manufacturing, or agricultural sectors. The community's demographic composition includes 1.9% White, 0.3% Hispanic or Latino, 2.5% Black or African American, and 1.1% Asian residents, with 0.0% of the population being foreign-born.
How Clay Center Ranks in Ohio
Cost of Living in Clay Center, OH
Compared to national averages, Clay Center has a median household income of $64,750 (14% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $121,200, which is 51% below the national median. Monthly rent at $631 is 46% below the US average of $1,163. Within Ohio, Clay Center's income is 10% below the state average of $71,814, and home values are 31% below the state median of $174,449.
Why Live in Clay Center, OH?
Clay Center offers affordable housing with a median home value of $121,200, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $631/month.
Potential considerations include median household income ($64,750) that falls below the national average. However, Clay Center’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Clay Center has a population of 367 with a median age of 32.3 years. Compare Clay Center with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Ohio.
Similar Cities Near Clay Center
Cities in Ohio with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Melrose | 367 | $90,565 | $111,300 | Compare |
| Senecaville | 367 | $44,375 | $107,300 | Compare |
| South Solon | 367 | $57,750 | $100,000 | Compare |
| Amsterdam | 368 | $46,719 | $58,400 | Compare |
| McDermott | 366 | $0 | $65,900 | Compare |
| Port William | 366 | $47,250 | $80,000 | Compare |
| Clarington | 365 | $40,500 | $133,300 | Compare |
| Roachester | 369 | $65,682 | $164,000 | 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 Clay Center With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Clay Center
What is the population of Clay Center, OH?
The population of Clay Center, OH is 367 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a small community in Ohio.
What is the median household income in Clay Center?
The median household income in Clay Center, OH is $64,750 per year, which is 14% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Clay Center?
The median home value in Clay Center, OH is $121,200, which is 51% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Clay Center?
The median monthly rent in Clay Center, OH is $631, which is 46% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Clay Center?
The unemployment rate in Clay Center, OH is 7.2%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Clay Center, OH a good place to live?
Clay Center offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 367 and a median age of 32.3, the city appeals to young professionals and families.
How educated is Clay Center, OH?
3.8% of residents in Clay Center 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 Clay Center?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Clay Center, OH: median home value is $121,200 (51% below national), median rent is $631/month, and median household income is $64,750. The home-value-to-income ratio is 1.9x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Clay Center?
The poverty rate in Clay Center, OH is 18.0%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. Residents and prospective movers should be aware of the economic challenges facing parts of this community.
How diverse is Clay Center, OH?
Clay Center's population is 1.9% White, 0.3% Hispanic or Latino, 2.5% Black or African American, 1.1% Asian, and 0.5% two or more races. 0.0% of residents are foreign-born.