With the increasing frequency of climate disasters such as hurricanes, floods, and wildfires across the United States, many homebuyers are asking: Is any place truly safe from extreme weather? According to the 2024 Housing and Climate Risk report by Realtor.com®, Ohio stands out as a dominant force in safety from natural disasters. In fact, six of the top 10 safest cities in the U.S. are located in Ohio, making it a prime destination for those seeking refuge from climate-related risks.
The Impact of Climate Disasters on Housing
Natural disasters have caused more than $25 billion in damages so far in 2024, and nearly half of U.S. homes—44.8%—are at risk for exposure to extreme weather. This includes everything from heatwaves and wildfires to hurricanes and floods, with significant implications for housing prices and insurance premiums.
Southern states, especially those in the Sun Belt, are among the most vulnerable. For example:
- Mississippi: Insurance rates are 30% above the national average, following a severe flood in the spring.
- Florida: Homeowners face insurance rates that are four times the national average due to hurricane risks.
As extreme weather continues to reshape the landscape, more and more people are becoming “climate migrants,” abandoning areas plagued by frequent natural disasters. Research from the First Street Foundation estimates that 3.2 million people have relocated due to climate risks.
Ohio: A Safe Haven from Climate Disasters
While climate change brings chaos to much of the country, Ohio cities offer an oasis of safety. From Akron to Cincinnati, these cities rank among the best places to live when it comes to avoiding hurricanes, floods, and wildfires. Here’s why Ohio is leading the charge:
Top Ohio Cities with Minimal Climate Risk
- Akron, OH
- Share of homes at the lowest risk: 91.1%
- Total value of properties at the lowest risk: $55.4 billion
- Cleveland, OH
- Share of homes at the lowest risk: 89.3%
- Total value of properties at the lowest risk: $163.5 billion
- Columbus, OH
- Share of homes at the lowest risk: 87.7%
- Total value of properties at the lowest risk: $197.6 billion
- Cincinnati, OH
- Share of homes at the lowest risk: 87.7%
- Total value of properties at the lowest risk: $199.3 billion
- Dayton, OH
- Share of homes at the lowest risk: 87.2%
- Total value of properties at the lowest risk: $57.8 billion
- Toledo, OH
- Share of homes at the lowest risk: 83.6%
- Total value of properties at the lowest risk: $41 billion
Ohio’s dominance on this list is no coincidence. These cities are largely insulated from the types of extreme weather that wreak havoc on coastal and southern regions, offering homeowners peace of mind, lower insurance costs, and a stable housing market.
Other Safe Cities Outside of Ohio
While Ohio cities dominate the list, a few other cities also rank highly for low climate risk:
- Seattle, WA: 88.4% of homes are at the lowest risk, with a total property value of $784.2 billion.
- Indianapolis, IN: 86.9% of homes are at low risk, with $190.1 billion in property value.
- Pittsburgh, PA: 84.7% of homes at low risk, totaling $183.3 billion in value.
- Grand Rapids, MI: 82.2% of homes are at the lowest risk, with $93.4 billion in property value.
Why Low-Risk Areas Like Ohio Are Becoming More Desirable
The increased prevalence of climate disasters is pushing more people to seek out safer areas to live. According to Realtor.com® economist Jiayi Yu, “Living in areas with a low risk of natural disasters offers numerous benefits to homeowners, including reduced risk of property damage, lower insurance costs, and a more stable local economy.”
The benefits of living in low-risk areas like Ohio extend beyond just avoiding floods or hurricanes. In regions with fewer climate threats:
- Property values tend to remain stable, even during economic downturns.
- Insurance premiums are significantly lower, saving homeowners thousands of dollars each year.
- Infrastructure and local economies are less impacted by the costs of rebuilding after a disaster.
With climate migration on the rise, these benefits are driving demand for homes in safer regions, and Ohio is leading the way.
Avoid Real Estate Disasters Working with Sell For 1 Percent Realtors
If you’re considering relocating to a low-risk area like Columbus, Cleveland, Cincinnati, or Toledo, now is the time to take action. Sell For 1 Percent Realtors is a full-service brokerage based in Columbus, Ohio, serving all the major metros in the state. We offer top-notch real estate services at just 1% commission, passing the savings from today’s technology directly to our clients.
Whether you’re looking to buy or sell, our team can help you navigate the market, ensuring you find the best value in Ohio’s safest cities. Contact us today to get started and take advantage of our low commission rates, so you can save more on your next home.
Ohio’s unique position as a climate-safe haven makes it an attractive option for homebuyers looking to avoid the risks associated with extreme weather. With lower costs, more stable property values, and fewer climate-related disruptions, there’s no better time to invest in an Ohio home. Work with Sell For 1 Percent Realtors to find your dream home and secure your future in one of America’s safest regions!