Orwell, OH
Population 1,854 · Ohio
About Orwell, OH
Orwell is a small town located in Ohio with a population of 1,854 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $43,670 per year, which is 42% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 34.9 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 Orwell features a median home value of $127,000, which is 48% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Orwell one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $750, 36% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 879 total housing units, 42% are owner-occupied (323 units) and 58% are renter-occupied (445 units). The higher proportion of renters may reflect a transient population, younger demographics, or high housing costs relative to income.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Orwell shows an unemployment rate of 6.8%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 27.2%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Orwell have an average one-way commute time of 25.9 minutes.
Education & Demographics
10.0% of Orwell 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 1.3% White, 3.6% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 0.0% Asian residents, with 0.2% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Orwell, OH
Compared to national averages, Orwell has a median household income of $43,670 (42% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $127,000, which is 48% below the national median. Monthly rent at $750 is 36% below the US average of $1,163. Within Ohio, Orwell's income is 39% below the state average of $71,814, and home values are 27% below the state median of $174,449.
Why Live in Orwell, OH?
Orwell offers affordable housing with a median home value of $127,000, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $750/month.
Potential considerations include median household income ($43,670) that falls below the national average. However, Orwell’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Orwell has a population of 1,854 with a median age of 34.9 years. Compare Orwell with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Ohio.
Similar Cities Near Orwell
Cities in Ohio with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mechanicsburg | 1,853 | $55,556 | $145,800 | Compare |
| Roseland | 1,859 | $45,833 | $75,600 | Compare |
| Navarre | 1,861 | $56,715 | $128,300 | Compare |
| Fort Recovery | 1,863 | $66,833 | $162,000 | Compare |
| Stony Prairie | 1,843 | $46,379 | $114,500 | Compare |
| Caldwell | 1,872 | $49,032 | $114,000 | Compare |
| Antwerp | 1,879 | $54,688 | $131,900 | Compare |
| West Unity | 1,894 | $62,045 | $108,200 | 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 Orwell With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Orwell
What is the population of Orwell, OH?
The population of Orwell, OH is 1,854 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a small town in Ohio.
What is the median household income in Orwell?
The median household income in Orwell, OH is $43,670 per year, which is 42% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Orwell?
The median home value in Orwell, OH is $127,000, which is 48% below the national median of $244,900. A significant portion of residents rent their homes.
What is the average rent in Orwell?
The median monthly rent in Orwell, OH is $750, which is 36% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Orwell?
The unemployment rate in Orwell, OH is 6.8%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Orwell, OH a good place to live?
Orwell offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 1,854 and a median age of 34.9, the city appeals to young professionals and families.
How educated is Orwell, OH?
10.0% of residents in Orwell 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 Orwell?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Orwell, OH: median home value is $127,000 (48% below national), median rent is $750/month, and median household income is $43,670. The home-value-to-income ratio is 2.9x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Orwell?
The poverty rate in Orwell, OH is 27.2%, 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 Orwell, OH?
Orwell's population is 1.3% White, 3.6% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 0.0% Asian, and 1.6% two or more races. 0.2% of residents are foreign-born.