Erie County, Ohio Demographics 2026

Population Overview

Erie County is located in Ohio with a total population of 74,938. It is the 33rd most populous county out of 88 in Ohio. The county encompasses 4 Census-designated places.

Age Demographics

The median age in Erie County is 45.2 years. This is 14% higher than the state median of 39.6 years.

Economy, Income & Housing

The median household income in Erie County is $68,431. This is 2% lower than the state median of $69,680. Compared to the national median of $78,538, household income here is 13% lower. The poverty rate stands at 12.5%. This is 5% lower than the state poverty rate of 13.2%. The unemployment rate is 6.1%. This is 26% higher than the state rate of 4.9%. The median home value is $183,900. Housing costs are 8% lower than the state median of $199,200. With a home-value-to-income ratio of just 2.7x, Erie County is one of the most affordable housing markets in the area. 71.1% of occupied housing units are owner-occupied. This homeownership rate is 6% higher than the state average of 67.0%.

Race & Ethnicity

The largest racial or ethnic group in Erie County is White (non-Hispanic), making up 80.8% of the population. Black or African American residents account for 8.3%. The Asian population (0.7%) is well below the state average of 2.4%.

Education

27.9% of residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher. This is 10% lower than the state rate of 30.9%. Nationally, 35.0% of adults hold at least a bachelor's degree. The high school graduation rate (or equivalent) is 92.4%.