Intimate partner violence (IPV) isn’t just a personal tragedy—it takes a heavy toll on communities, workplaces, and families. Beyond the deep emotional and physical pain, it carries a massive financial burden, costing billions in lost productivity, healthcare, law enforcement, and social services. While the human impact is immeasurable, the economic cost is undeniable, putting strain on both public resources and private businesses.
Understanding these costs is essential for building stronger, more supportive communities. So, what does IPV really cost Ohio? A new report—The Economic Impact of Intimate Partner Violence in Ohio, commissioned by the Ohio Domestic Violence Network (ODVN)—breaks it down.
Each year in Ohio, an estimated 189,000 people experience Intimate Partner Violence (IPV), with 114 tragic fatalities reported between July 1, 2023, and June 30, 2024. According to the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence, an estimated 38% of women and 33% of men in Ohio will experience physical violence, rape, or stalking by an intimate partner at some point in their lives. By learning more about it and supporting each other, we can help make a difference.
New research reveals the true cost of IPV in Ohio—not just for individuals, but for entire communities and the economy. The impact extends to children’s futures, workplace productivity, and public resources, leading to an estimated $1.2 billion economic loss statewide.
Major costs include:
Other impacts include property loss, legal and incarceration costs, child welfare challenges, and funding for IPV programs, shelters, and volunteer efforts.”
Ohio’s current two-year budget includes $20 million for domestic violence services. This investment provided support for over 127,000 survivors in 2023, according to ODVN Executive Director Mary O’Doherty.
“Consider how much greater the cost would be if the advocates at our 76 member programs were not performing their life-saving work.” -Mary O’Doherty
In 2023, ODVN member programs saw a growing need for support. They provided shelter for 9,707 survivors but, sadly, had to turn away nearly 8,200—almost one in two people seeking safety.
When it comes to funding for domestic violence services, Ohio lags behind neighboring states:
With more support, we can ensure that every survivor has a safe place to turn.
There are 76 ODVN organizations across Ohio that serve all 88 counties. Their 170 full time and 50 part time staff members offered prevention programs for the public, which reached more than 52,000 adults and more than 74,000 youths/teens.
Across Ohio, 76 ODVN organizations serve all 88 counties, with a dedicated team of 170 full-time and 50 part-time staff. Their prevention programs reached over 52,000 adults and 74,000 young people, helping to educate and empower communities.
In 2023 alone, these organizations made a huge impact by:
Their work brings hope and safety to thousands, but there’s still more to do!
Bethany House Toledo is a vital part of the Ohio Domestic Violence Network, serving all of Northwest Ohio.
Unlike short-term emergency shelters, Bethany House provides long-term, safe housing and comprehensive support for survivors of domestic violence. Their focus on transitional housing gives individuals and families the time, stability, and resources they need to heal and rebuild their lives.
Bethany House is more than just a shelter, it’s a place where survivors find safety, support, and a path to a brighter future. Their key services include:
Bethany House’s Impact in 2024:
In the coming months, we’ll take a closer look at the data behind each cost category, breaking down the financial and social impact of IPV on our communities. We’ll also highlight the vital work being done across Ohio to support survivors, prevent violence, and reduce these economic burdens. By understanding these challenges, we can work together to create real change. Stay tuned each month as we explore the numbers, the stories behind them, and the solutions shaping a safer, healthier future for all.
Sponsored Ministry of the Sisters of St. Francis of Sylvania, Ohio
Member of the Sylvania Franciscan Ministries