Sterling, OH
Population 236 · Ohio
About Sterling, OH
Sterling is a small community located in Ohio with a population of 236 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $53,558 per year, which is 29% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 50.3 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 Sterling features a median home value of $117,400, which is 52% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Sterling one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $0, 100% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 132 total housing units, 86% are owner-occupied (99 units) and 14% are renter-occupied (16 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Sterling shows an unemployment rate of 3.5%, which is lower than the national rate of 3.7%, indicating a relatively strong job market. The poverty rate stands at 3.0%, below the national average of 12.4%, reflecting generally favorable economic conditions. Workers in Sterling have an average one-way commute time of 24.6 minutes.
Education & Demographics
15.2% of Sterling 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 0.0% White, 2.5% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 0.0% Asian residents, with 0.0% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Sterling, OH
Compared to national averages, Sterling has a median household income of $53,558 (29% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $117,400, which is 52% below the national median. Monthly rent at $0 is 100% below the US average of $1,163. Within Ohio, Sterling's income is 25% below the state average of $71,814, and home values are 33% below the state median of $174,449.
Why Live in Sterling, OH?
Sterling offers affordable housing with a median home value of $117,400, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $0/month, and a strong job market with an unemployment rate of just 3.5%. Additionally, the city features a low poverty rate of 3.0%, better than the national average, and short commute times averaging just 24.6 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($53,558) that falls below the national average. However, Sterling’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Sterling has a population of 236 with a median age of 50.3 years. Compare Sterling with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Ohio.
Similar Cities Near Sterling
Cities in Ohio with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bowersville | 237 | $54,432 | $114,600 | Compare |
| Kipton | 237 | $59,167 | $136,600 | Compare |
| Uniopolis | 237 | $67,500 | $89,200 | Compare |
| Camp Dennison | 238 | $84,375 | $201,500 | Compare |
| Damascus | 234 | $80,144 | $112,500 | Compare |
| Tiro | 234 | $60,515 | $52,300 | Compare |
| Aquilla | 240 | $50,000 | $138,300 | Compare |
| Chesterville | 232 | $53,500 | $115,300 | 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 Sterling With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Sterling
What is the population of Sterling, OH?
The population of Sterling, OH is 236 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 Sterling?
The median household income in Sterling, OH is $53,558 per year, which is 29% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Sterling?
The median home value in Sterling, OH is $117,400, which is 52% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Sterling?
The median monthly rent in Sterling, OH is $0, which is 100% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Sterling?
The unemployment rate in Sterling, OH is 3.5%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. This lower-than-average rate suggests a relatively healthy local job market.
Is Sterling, OH a good place to live?
Sterling offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and a strong job market. With a population of 236 and a median age of 50.3, the city appeals to established professionals and retirees.
How educated is Sterling, OH?
15.2% of residents in Sterling 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 Sterling?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Sterling, OH: median home value is $117,400 (52% below national), median rent is $0/month, and median household income is $53,558. The home-value-to-income ratio is 2.2x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Sterling?
The poverty rate in Sterling, OH is 3.0%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. This below-average poverty rate reflects generally favorable economic conditions in the community.
How diverse is Sterling, OH?
Sterling's population is 0.0% White, 2.5% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 0.0% Asian, and 0.0% two or more races. 0.0% of residents are foreign-born.