If you’re dreaming of buying land, whether for a home, farm, hunting retreat, or investment — the first question is always: “How much does land cost per acre in Ohio?” The answer isn’t simple. Prices vary dramatically depending on location, land type, and amenities.
In this 2025 guide, we’ll break down:
- The average cost of land per acre in Ohio
- How prices vary by county (with real examples)
- Factors that drive land values up or down
- Pro tips for spotting an affordable deal
Whether you’re hunting for cheap land in Ohio or just starting your search, this breakdown will help you buy smarter.
Pro Tip for Land Scouting: If you’re visiting multiple parcels, a handheld GPS like the Garmin eTrex 32x makes it easy to mark boundaries and avoid getting lost. It’s a favorite tool among Ohio land buyers who want to walk their property before closing.
Average Land Cost Per Acre in Ohio (2025 Snapshot)
On average, land cost per acre in Ohio is $6,000–$12,000 in 2025. But averages don’t tell the whole story. Agricultural fields in rural southern counties may sell for as little as $3,000 an acre, while prime development land near Columbus or Cincinnati can reach $25,000+ an acre.
Quick Comparison:
- Southern Ohio (Adams, Meigs, Scioto): $3,000–$5,000/acre (mostly rural/agricultural)
- Northeast Ohio (Summit, Medina, Portage): $7,000–$12,000/acre (near metro + farmland)
- Central Ohio (Franklin, Delaware, Licking): $15,000–$25,000/acre (high growth/development)
- Northwest Ohio (Hancock, Wood, Allen): $5,000–$8,000/acre (mix of farm + residential)
Price Per Acre by Region & County
Southern Ohio: Best for Budget Buyers
Counties like Adams, Meigs, and Vinton often have the cheapest land in the state. This region attracts hunters, campers, and off-grid buyers. Many are for sale by owner.
- Adams County: ~$3,200/acre
- Vinton County: ~$3,800/acre
- Scioto County: ~$4,500/acre
Pro Tip: These counties are great for large-acreage purchases, but always check for road access and utility hookups.
Central Ohio: High Growth, High Prices
Central counties are booming due to tech investment and population growth. Delaware County, just north of Columbus, has some of the most expensive land in Ohio.
- Delaware County: ~$23,000/acre
- Franklin County (Columbus): ~$20,000/acre
- Licking County: ~$15,500/acre
Pro Tip: Development land is pricey here, but small rural tracts in surrounding counties (Knox, Fairfield) can still be affordable.
Northeast Ohio: Affordable + Close to Cities
Counties like Medina, Portage, and Trumbull offer a balance of affordability with proximity to Cleveland or Akron.
- Medina County: ~$10,500/acre
- Portage County: ~$8,200/acre
- Trumbull County: ~$7,400/acre
Pro Tip: If you want to live near a metro but still buy land under $10K an acre, northeast Ohio is worth a look.
Northwest Ohio: Farmland & Flat Prices
Known for fertile farmland, Hancock, Wood, and Putnam counties average around $5,000–$8,000/acre.
- Hancock County: ~$6,200/acre
- Wood County: ~$7,100/acre
- Putnam County: ~$5,500/acre
Pro Tip: Agricultural buyers dominate this region. If you’re looking for hunting or recreational land, you may find good deals.
Document What You See: When you tour a property, bring a drone or camera. A budget-friendly option like the DJI Mini 3 Drone can capture aerial photos that help you understand access points, road frontage, and neighboring land use.
What Drives Land Cost Per Acre in Ohio?
Several factors determine the cost of land per acre in Ohio:
- Location: Land near Columbus, Cleveland, or Cincinnati is always more expensive.
- Access: Road frontage, driveways, and easements add major value.
- Utilities: Water, electric, and septic approval can double the price.
- Zoning: Land zoned for residential or commercial use is worth more than raw rural tracts.
- Acreage Size: Larger parcels often sell for a cheaper per-acre rate.
Think you know how to spot a scam? You might be surprised—check out our post on avoiding Ohio land scams.
Pro Tips for Getting the Best Deal
- Check County GIS Maps to see taxes, zoning, and floodplain details before making an offer.
- Compare Comps — don’t just look at the list price; check what land actually sold for nearby.
- Ask About Owner Financing if you don’t want to use a bank loan. Many Ohio sellers are open to it.
- Be Flexible on Location — moving just one county over can save thousands per acre.
Research Hack: Pair county GIS maps with an affordable Acer Chromebook — lightweight and great for pulling up zoning codes, auditor records, and soil maps while you’re on the go.
FAQs
Q: What’s the cheapest county to buy land in Ohio?
Adams and Vinton counties typically have the lowest land cost per acre in Ohio, often under $4,000.
Q: Is buying cheap land in Ohio a good investment?
Yes, but only if you’ve done due diligence. Cheap land often lacks utilities or road access, so factor in those costs before deciding.
Q: Where is land most expensive in Ohio?
Central Ohio counties like Delaware, Franklin, and Licking are currently the most expensive due to growth near Columbus.
Summary
Ohio land prices vary widely — from $3,000 an acre in rural southern counties to over $20,000 in central Ohio hotspots. The key to getting a good deal is understanding what drives prices and being willing to compare multiple regions.
If you’re ready to start shopping, check out our Ohio Land Due Diligence Kit — a step-by-step resource with a property info worksheet, county GIS guide, and outreach scripts to help you buy land smarter.