Ohio is one of the best states for off grid living, basically, this state has everything you would want from an off grid living stand of point. The cost of living and the cost of land are one of the cheapest in this part of the woods, although Ohio tends to have somewhat higher taxes, it is still a very affordable place to live either on or off the grid.
The best places to live off the grid in Ohio are the ones that have a relatively mild climate, and far away from the big cities. Generally speaking, the counties considered to be the best for off grid living and homesteading are in the southeastern parts of the state, like Lawrence County, Columbiana County, Belmont County, Vinton County, Ross County, Licking County, and Williams County.
Ohio’s climate is fairly good for off grid living, although not the best. Mostly because this state’s climate is extremely unpredictable, you can basically experience all 4 seasons in a single day. With that being said the winters tend to be relatively long and fairly cold. In the northern parts of the state, the winters can be brutal, although there are still relatively mild if you come from one of the northern states.
If you want to live off the grid in Ohio then you have to stay away from Cleveland, Columbus, and Cincinnati. The cost of living around these areas is relatively high, and for the most part, the best options for off grid living are in the southeastern parts of the state. If you want to know more about off grid living in this state then check out my recent article Off grid living in Ohio ( The Buckeye State ).
Best Places To Live Off The Grid In Ohio
Ohio presents several remarkable options for living off the grid. While it may not be as well-known for its natural landscapes as other states, Ohio still offers beautiful rural areas and a sense of tranquility. The southeastern part of the state, including counties like Athens and Hocking, features rolling hills, dense forests, and an abundance of wildlife.
These areas provide opportunities for sustainable agriculture, off-grid homesteading, and a close-knit community of like-minded individuals. Moreover, the western region of Ohio, with counties like Shelby and Preble, offers a mix of farmland and open spaces, allowing for self-sufficiency and the potential for renewable energy sources.
Lawrence County
Lawrence County is located in the southern tip of Ohio, and there are several reasons why this is one of the best places to live off the grid in the entire state. The population density is relatively low, and so is the cost of property, currently there are around 63k people living in an area of 454.96 sq mi. In addition to this Lawrence County is also excellent due to its relatively mild climate, when compared to the other counties in the north. If you want to know what are your options for toilets off the grid thence check out my recent article Off grid toilet options ( Top 6 ).
Columbiana County
Columbiana County is located in the eastern part of Ohio, although this county does have a somewhat higher population density it is still one of the best places for off grid living. Currently, there are around 108k people living in an area of 532.46 sq mi. For the most part, your best options for off grid living will be in the eastern part of the county.
Belmont County
Belmont County is located in the eastern part of the state, and this county has a certain charm to it. Due to its unique geographical position, Belmont County can be an excellent place for off grid living, although the climate is not the best but the growing period for crops is relatively long. The population density is also low and so is the cost of living, currently there are around 70k people living in an area of 537.35 sq mi. If you want to know what are the best propane generators for off the grid then check out my recent article Best off grid propane generators ( Top 11 ).
Vinton County
Vinton County is located in the southern part of the state, and if you are on a tight budget then this is the ideal place for you. Due to the low population density, the cost of land and property are dirt cheap, currently, there are only 14k people living in an area of 414.08 sq mi. In addition to this, Vinton County is also in an area where the climate is relatively mild, both during the summer and during the wintertime.
Ross County
Ross County is located in the south-central part of the state, and this is the largest county in Ohio. The population density is somewhat higher than in the neighboring counties, although you will have no problem finding suitable land for off grid living relatively cheaply. Currently, there are around 79k people living in an area of 688.41 sq mi, and your best options for off grid living will be in the southern parts of the county.
Licking County
Licking County is located in the central part of the state, the cost of living and the cost of property is relatively low in this county, especially when you compare it to the neighboring counties. On the other hand, the population density is somewhat higher. Currently, there are around 170k people living in an area of 686.50 sq mi, and your best options for cheap land will be in the southern parts of Licking County.
Williams County
Williams County is located in the northwestern part of the state, although not an ideal place for off grid living it can be one of the better ones for the right kind of person. If you are familiar with the northern climate and harsh winters then you will find yourself at home here. The price of land and the cost of living in Williams County is one of the lowest in the entire state, currently, there are around 38k people living in an area of 421.74 sq mi.
Key Takeaways
- Ohio offers ample opportunities for off-grid living with its vast rural areas and farmland. These areas provide the possibility of acquiring larger parcels of land at affordable prices, allowing for the establishment of off-grid homesteads and agricultural activities.
- Ohio’s diverse landscapes, including forests, rivers, and lakes, provide access to natural resources and opportunities for outdoor activities. Residents can enjoy fishing, hunting, foraging, and utilizing water sources for irrigation and potential hydroelectric power generation, supporting a self-sufficient lifestyle.
- Ohio is home to various off-grid communities and individuals who value self-reliance and sustainable living. These communities offer a supportive network for knowledge sharing, resource exchange, and a sense of community. Additionally, the state has seen an increase in sustainable initiatives, such as renewable energy projects and local food movements, which align well with the off-grid lifestyle.