Real Estate Investing in Youngstown, Ohio
Everything the listing leaves out — vacancy, rent trend, cap rate, landlord climate. All free.
Should you buy in Youngstown, OH? Our answer, based on the numbers below.
For Homebuyers
GOOD FIT
Grade B (79/100)
Solid choice — values are growing steadily and the market is stable enough to buy with confidence.
For Investors
STRONG
4.5 / 5
(93/100)
A balanced market — moderate cash flow and moderate appreciation. A "steady" investor profile fits best.
Risks to Know
3 flags
- High vacancy: 13.7% of homes vacant — above national norms.
- Elevated poverty: 24.2% poverty rate — can affect rent collection.
- Lower household income: $31,598 median — tenant affordability is tighter.
What’s happening in Youngstown, OH?
Click any question — our AI will research it live from the web and show you sources.
🏦 30-yr Fixed Rate:
6.76%
as of Sep 10
Source: Freddie Mac PMMS
Avg Investability
★★★★★
Avg Home Value
$63,113
Avg Monthly Rent
$961
ZIP Codes
10
Market Trends — Youngstown, OH
Home Value History
Rent History
Local Pulse Report
AI-researched developments and news for Youngstown, OH. Updated on demand as visitors ask.
Growth & development in Youngstown, OH Updated 138 days ago
Youngstown is experiencing a surge in infrastructure and housing developments, alongside significant industrial expansions, though some downtown business closures have occurred.
Opportunities
- Vallourec is investing up to $48 million to expand its Youngstown manufacturing operations, creating 40 full-time jobs by early 2027. — This expands local employment opportunities and strengthens the regional industrial base. JobsOhio
- The Youngstown Neighborhood Development Corp. (YNDC) will complete 46 new affordable homes in the city by mid-2026. — This increases housing options and promotes homeownership in revitalized neighborhoods. The Vindicator
- The SMART2 Network project in downtown Youngstown is nearing completion, enhancing pedestrian and cyclist infrastructure and incorporating autonomous shuttles. — This improves downtown accessibility, safety, and connectivity for residents and visitors. Greater Ohio Policy Center
- The Mahoning County Land Bank secured nearly $3.5 million to remediate three brownfield sites in Youngstown, removing environmental barriers to future redevelopment. — This prepares previously unusable land for new development and investment. Mahoning County Land Bank
- Yogo Bike Share officially launched on April 15, 2024, offering 29 bikes for rent in Youngstown. — This provides a new, voluntary transportation and recreation option for residents. Greater Ohio Policy Center
Concerns
- Youngstown City Council considered a one-year moratorium on new dollar stores, used car lots, gas stations, and auto mechanic businesses in March 2024. — This could restrict business growth and limit consumer choice in certain sectors. The Vindicator
- The city of Youngstown ended its redevelopment deal with Bluelofts Inc. for 20 Federal Place in August 2025, returning $24 million in tax credits. — This delays the redevelopment of a significant downtown property and potential new housing/retail. YouTube (The Business Journal)
- Gringo's, a downtown restaurant, closed recently due to ongoing street closures from construction. — Construction disruptions can negatively impact local businesses and reduce dining options. Business Journal Daily
- Mahoning Snacks, a popular downtown convenience store, closed in September 2025 after 18 years of business. — This reduces local retail options and a long-standing community staple. YouTube (WKBN)
Bottom line: Youngstown is experiencing significant public and private investment in infrastructure and housing, alongside notable industrial expansion, despite some business closures and development challenges.
Local news & events in Youngstown, OH Updated 138 days ago
Youngstown has seen a significant decrease in homicides and shooting victims, but overall crime rates remain high, and residents are actively addressing environmental concerns.
Opportunities
- Youngstown experienced a 56% decrease in homicides over the 12 months ending August 31, 2025, compared to the previous 12 months. — This significantly improves public safety and reduces the risk of violent crime for residents. The Vindicator
- The number of shooting victims in Youngstown steadily declined from 105 in the first eight months of 2021 to 40 during the first eight months of 2025. — A reduction in shootings enhances community well-being and personal security. The Vindicator
- Youngstown City Council approved a second year-long moratorium on polluting plastic-burning facilities (pyrolysis and gasification) on November 20, 2024. — This protects residents from potential air pollution and health risks associated with such facilities. Moms Clean Air Force
- The city's homeownership rate increased between 2020 and 2023, reaching 56.9% in 2023, and vacant houses have sharply declined. — Increased homeownership and reduced blight can lead to more stable neighborhoods and increased property values. Business Journal Daily
- The number of minority, women, and EDGE-certified businesses in Youngstown doubled since February 2022. — This expands economic opportunities and promotes a more inclusive business environment. Business Journal Daily
Concerns
- Youngstown's overall crime rate is 137% above the national average as of May 2026, with higher crime than 97% of major U.S. cities. — High crime rates restrict residents' freedom and safety, leading to increased personal risk and potential economic costs. DoorProfit
- Larceny/theft is the most common crime in Youngstown, with an estimated rate 137% above the national average. — High rates of property crime impose unconsented financial losses and a sense of insecurity on residents. DoorProfit
- Despite local opposition and a moratorium, the Ohio EPA issued a permit-to-install for SOBE Thermal Energy Systems, LLC, for a pyrolysis operation on February 15, 2024. — This decision potentially exposes residents to air pollution risks and health uncertainties, overriding local concerns. Ohio Environmental Council
- Youngstown's population dropped by 7% from 64,152 in 2020 to 59,605 in 2023. — Population decline can lead to reduced public services, economic stagnation, and a shrinking tax base. Business Journal Daily
- The percentage of households living below the poverty line has increased in both Youngstown and Mahoning County. — Rising poverty restricts economic choice and opportunity for a significant portion of the population. Business Journal Daily
Bottom line: Youngstown is making strides in reducing violent crime and protecting its environment, but high overall crime rates and persistent poverty remain significant challenges.
Schools in Youngstown, OH Updated 138 days ago
Youngstown City School District is undergoing significant reconfiguration and facility upgrades, while also showing academic improvements and addressing financial challenges.
Opportunities
- Youngstown City School District's overall rating on the Ohio School Report Card improved from two stars in 2024 to 2.5 stars in 2025. — This indicates academic progress and improved performance for students. The Vindicator
- The district achieved a four-star rating in the Gap Closing Component category in the Ohio Department of Education's 2023 report card. — This demonstrates effective support for underserved students and reduction in chronic absenteeism. YCSD
- YCSD is implementing a two-phase reconfiguration plan for 2026-2027, merging high schools and middle schools into unified campuses. — This aims to optimize resources, enhance learning environments, and expand career and technical education opportunities.
- Youngstown Preschool officially received a Gold Rating from the Ohio Department of Children and Youth's "Step Up To Quality" program. — This signifies high-quality early childhood education, benefiting the youngest scholars. YCSD
- The district is upgrading high school facilities, including a $3 million beautification project at East High School, to enhance safety and unify student bodies by Fall 2026. — This provides modern and safer learning environments for students. Mahoning Matters
Concerns
- Youngstown City School District failed to meet as many academic benchmarks in 2023-2024 (9 of 24) compared to 2022-2023 (16 of 24). — This indicates a setback in meeting yearly academic improvement targets. Ohio Dept. of Education
- The district's 2024-2025 Academic Improvement Plan update shows that targets for K-1 reading and 6-10 reading growth were not met. — This suggests ongoing challenges in foundational literacy skills for younger students. Ohio Dept. of Education
- Youngstown City Schools ranked among the state's worst with a performance index score of 57 in the 2024-25 academic year. — This highlights a continued need for significant academic improvement compared to other districts. Tribune Chronicle
- The district's most recent five-year forecast projects deficit spending each year with a negative fund balance occurring in FY 2027. — This poses a significant financial challenge and potential instability for the district. Ohio Auditor of State
- A current revenue stream of $5.3 million is at risk for YCSD due to the elimination of emergency levies and renewal/replacement language, requiring a new levy by 2029. — This creates financial uncertainty and a potential need for new taxes or budget cuts. The Vindicator
Bottom line: The district is making strides in facilities and some academic areas, but faces ongoing challenges in overall performance and financial stability.
Civic & policy in Youngstown, OH Updated 138 days ago
Youngstown and Mahoning County have seen recent government decisions regarding budgets, zoning, property taxes, and state-level education and higher education reforms.
Opportunities
- Youngstown City Council approved a $254 million budget for 2026, including $10.8 million for capital improvements like road resurfacing and fire department equipment. — This investment improves city infrastructure and public safety services for residents. The Vindicator
- Mahoning County approved sponsorship grants for local events, including golf tournaments and the Soul to City half marathon on May 31, 2026. — These grants support community events, enhancing local recreational and cultural opportunities. Citizen Portal
- Ohio's new property tax laws, effective in 2026, include an enhanced owner occupancy and homestead exemption (HB 96). — This change could lead to property tax savings for qualifying homeowners. Metro Monthly
- State Senator Al Cutrona introduced Senate Bill 322 in November 2025, aiming to dissolve academic distress commissions and return local control to schools like Youngstown City Schools. — This bill seeks to empower local communities to make their own decisions for school improvement. Ohio Senate
Concerns
- Youngstown City Council considered moratoriums until May 1, 2026, on permits for new recreational marijuana businesses, dollar stores, car dealerships, and auto repair shops. — These moratoriums temporarily restrict the establishment of certain businesses, limiting consumer choice and potential economic growth. The Vindicator
- Ohio's new property tax laws, while offering some relief, may lead to reduced tax distributions for local governments and school districts in Mahoning County. — This could potentially impact funding for essential local services and education. WFMJ
- Ohio Senate Bill 1, signed into law in March 2025, bans diversity efforts, regulates classroom discussion, and prohibits faculty strikes at public universities, including Youngstown State University. — This state law restricts academic freedom and diversity initiatives within higher education. Ohio Capital Journal
- Youngstown is strictly enforcing a city ordinance requiring residents under 18 to be off the streets between 11 p.m. and 5 a.m., with potential charges for parents of repeat violators. — This curfew restricts the movement of minors and can result in legal consequences for parents. Tribune Chronicle
Bottom line: Youngstown and Mahoning County are navigating a mix of local investments and state-level policy shifts impacting property taxes, education, and business regulations.
AI-generated from public web sources. Always verify with official records. Not financial, legal, or investment advice.
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Best ZIP codes in Youngstown-Warren-Boardman, OH-PA
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Landlord Ground Truth
Real numbers from people who own or manage rentals in Youngstown, OH. Anonymous, moderated, never written by AI.
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Avg Home Value
$63,113
Avg Monthly Rent
$961
1% Rule
✓ Passes
Landlord Friendly (OH)
★★★★★
🎓 Colleges & Universities in Youngstown
2 Colleges
11,113 Students
1,764 Off-Campus Renters
C+
4-Year Public · 11,040 students
📍 ~1,711 students rent off-campus
C+
Vocational Public · 73 students
Investor Insight: With 1,764 students living off-campus, Youngstown has substantial rental demand from the college population — typically stable, lease-renewing tenants.
Neighborhoods in Youngstown
Belle Vista
10 ZIP codes
Brier Hill
10 ZIP codes
Brownlee Woods
10 ZIP codes
Buckeye Plat
10 ZIP codes
Cottage Grove
10 ZIP codes
East High
10 ZIP codes
East Side
10 ZIP codes
Erie
10 ZIP codes
Idora
10 ZIP codes
Kirkmere
10 ZIP codes
Landsdowne
10 ZIP codes
Lansingville
10 ZIP codes
Lincoln Knolls
10 ZIP codes
Newport
10 ZIP codes
North Heights
10 ZIP codes
Oak HIll
10 ZIP codes
Pleasant Grove
10 ZIP codes
Schenley
10 ZIP codes
Sharon Line-Mcguffey Heights
10 ZIP codes
Steelton
10 ZIP codes
ZIP Codes in Youngstown, OH
44511
Home Value
$160,996
Rent
$873/mo
44505
Home Value
$93,269
Rent
$969/mo
44509
Home Value
$86,136
Rent
$1,091/mo
44502
Home Value
$56,915
Rent
$1,200/mo
44504
Home Value
$102,478
Rent
$900/mo
44507
Home Value
$44,245
Rent
$909/mo
44506
Home Value
$37,316
Rent
$873/mo
44510
Home Value
$49,780
Rent
$873/mo
44503
Home Value
$0
44555
Home Value
$0
Screen every ZIP in Youngstown
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View PlansFrequently Asked Questions About Youngstown, OH
Is housing expensive in Youngstown, OH?
Expect median prices around $63K in Youngstown, OH. The market has run at a 0.0% 5-year CAGR, so entry costs have been steady.
What do landlords charge for rent in Youngstown, OH?
The typical rental in Youngstown, OH commands about $961/mo monthly. That rent profile stable cash flow against the $63K purchase basis.
Does Youngstown, OH rent-to-price ratio clear the 1% rule?
The median property in Youngstown, OH ($63K at $961/mo rent) a rent-to-price figure. Pure 1% deals require disciplined offer pricing.
What is the investability score for Youngstown, OH?
The 4.5/5 investability rating in Youngstown, OH reflects its $63K prices and $961/mo rents. Investors generally consider it a solid option within OH.
Can you recycle capital via BRRRR in Youngstown, OH?
BRRRR in Youngstown, OH is a strong. The interplay of $63K values and $961/mo rents creates reasonable refinance conditions.
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