Exhibit No. 23.1

CONSENT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM

We consent to the incorporation by reference in the Registration Statement No. 333-100081 on Form S-8 of United Community Financial Corp. of our report dated June 26, 2013 appearing in this Annual Report on Form 11-K of The Home Savings & Loan Company 401(k) Savings Plan for the year ended December 31, 2012.

/s/ Crowe Horwath LLP

Crowe Horwath LLP

Cleveland, OH

June 26, 2013