Reading, OH
Population 10,490 · Ohio
About Reading, OH
Reading is a mid-sized city located in Ohio with a population of 10,490 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $60,167 per year, which is 20% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 42.6 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 Reading features a median home value of $184,200, which is 25% below the national median of $244,900. This positions Reading in a moderately priced market relative to the rest of the country. Median monthly rent is $871, 25% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 5,110 total housing units, 59% are owner-occupied (2,892 units) and 41% are renter-occupied (2,020 units). The balanced mix of owners and renters indicates a diverse housing market.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Reading shows an unemployment rate of 5.1%, which is near the national rate of 3.7%. The poverty rate stands at 12.9%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Reading have an average one-way commute time of 18.3 minutes, one of the shorter commutes in the region.
Education & Demographics
24.8% of Reading 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 3.1% White, 2.0% Hispanic or Latino, 0.3% Black or African American, and 1.6% Asian residents, with 4.5% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Reading, OH
Compared to national averages, Reading has a median household income of $60,167 (20% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $184,200, which is 25% below the national median. Monthly rent at $871 is 25% below the US average of $1,163. Within Ohio, Reading's income is 16% below the state average of $71,814, and home values are 6% above the state median of $174,449.
Why Live in Reading, OH?
Reading offers affordable housing with a median home value of $184,200, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $871/month, and short commute times averaging just 18.3 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($60,167) that falls below the national average. However, Reading’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Reading has a population of 10,490 with a median age of 42.6 years. Compare Reading with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Ohio.
Similar Cities Near Reading
Cities in Ohio with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| New Albany | 10,524 | $232,524 | $728,200 | Compare |
| Vermilion | 10,451 | $73,052 | $172,000 | Compare |
| Heath | 10,545 | $74,773 | $215,000 | Compare |
| London | 10,403 | $60,364 | $194,800 | Compare |
| Ironton | 10,585 | $45,694 | $112,400 | Compare |
| Galion | 10,358 | $45,377 | $100,900 | Compare |
| Tipp City | 10,344 | $85,081 | $237,400 | Compare |
| Richmond Heights | 10,677 | $56,734 | $176,100 | 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 Reading With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Reading
What is the population of Reading, OH?
The population of Reading, OH is 10,490 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 Reading?
The median household income in Reading, OH is $60,167 per year, which is 20% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Reading?
The median home value in Reading, OH is $184,200, which is 25% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Reading?
The median monthly rent in Reading, OH is $871, which is 25% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Reading?
The unemployment rate in Reading, OH is 5.1%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Reading, OH a good place to live?
Reading offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 10,490 and a median age of 42.6, the city appeals to a broad range of residents.
How educated is Reading, OH?
24.8% of residents in Reading 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 Reading?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Reading, OH: median home value is $184,200 (25% below national), median rent is $871/month, and median household income is $60,167. The home-value-to-income ratio is 3.1x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Reading?
The poverty rate in Reading, OH is 12.9%, 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 Reading, OH?
Reading's population is 3.1% White, 2.0% Hispanic or Latino, 0.3% Black or African American, 1.6% Asian, and 5.5% two or more races. 4.5% of residents are foreign-born.