Ohio is a diverse state located in the Midwestern region of the United States, offering a wide range of options for those looking for a new place to call home. From bustling metropolitan cities to charming suburbs packed with green spaces, Ohio has something for everyone. We analyzed data including average rent prices, population change, and access to stores, schools, healthcare, entertainment, and restaurants to determine the best places to live in Ohio. Here’s what we found:
1. Columbus, OH
- Population change: C
- Rent price: F
- Stores: A
- Schools: A
- Health care: A
- Entertainment: A
- Restaurants: A
Located in central Ohio, Columbus is both the largest city in the state and Ohio’s capital. The average rent here for a one-bedroom apartment is $940. The city is home to Ohio State University. The mild weather is ideal for enjoying destinations like the Columbus Park of Roses and Topiary Garden. Other popular highlights include the Center of Science and Industry (COSI), Otherworld Ohio, and the LEGOLAND Discovery Center. From the historic German Village to the vibrant foodie scene, it’s easy to see why Columbus gets top ranks for shopping, dining, and entertainment.
2. Cincinnati, OH
- Population change: B
- Rent price: D
- Stores: A
- Schools: A
- Health care: B
- Entertainment: A
- Restaurants: B
Cincinnati lies along the Ohio River in southwestern Ohio. The average price for a one-bedroom apartment here is $925 per month. This is a bustling hub for business and commerce, as the metropolitan area encompasses parts of Indiana, Kentucky, and Ohio. The local schools and health care enjoy high grades, adding to the city’s appeal. Popular attractions include Kings Island, the Cincinnati Art Museum, and the Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden. Foodies adore the area for its outstanding chili and plethora of mouthwatering barbecue joints.
3. Dayton, OH
- Population change: D
- Rent price: C
- Stores: B
- Schools: B
- Health care: B
- Entertainment: B
- Restaurants: B
Dayton lies in southwestern Ohio, about an hour northeast of Cincinnati. The average price is $700 for a one-bedroom apartment here. The area has a highly rated public school system and several family-friendly highlights like the Boonshoft Museum of Discovery and Sunwatch Indian Village. The area offers excellent health care through comprehensive systems like Premier Health and Kettering Health Dayton. Shopping and dining options abound, with 2nd Street Market serving plenty of both.
4. Canton, OH
- Population change: C
- Rent price: A
- Stores: D
- Schools: D
- Health care: C
- Entertainment: D
- Restaurants: D
Canton lies in northeastern Ohio, about an hour south of Cleveland. The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment here is $650 per month. The area offers good health care with access to the 1,032-bed Aultman Hospital system. Canton has a variety of boutique and antique shopping opportunities at locations like Arrowhead Vintage & Handmade Goods and Bare Naked Wools Boutique. Other prime attractions include the First Ladies National Historic Site and McKinley Presidential Library & Museum.
5. Toledo, OH
- Population change: D
- Rent price: B
- Stores: C
- Schools: C
- Health care: C
- Entertainment: C
- Restaurants: C
Toledo lies in northwestern Ohio along Maumee Bay, serving as a Great Lakes port. Residents enjoy a low cost of living, with rent for a one-bedroom apartment averaging just $645. Toledo offers a massive public school system, with many high schools and charter school options. For local flavor, you can’t miss Tony Packo’s, famous for its Hungarian hot dog served with mustard, onions, and hot dog sauce. Other popular destinations include the Toledo Zoo, Toledo Museum of Art, and Peristyle Concert Hall.
6. Cleveland, OH
- Population change: F
- Rent price: F
- Stores: B
- Schools: B
- Health care: A
- Entertainment: B
- Restaurants: A
Cleveland lies in northeastern Ohio on Lake Erie. A one-bedroom apartment averages $975 each month. The city boasts a rich cultural scene with highlights like the Museum of Contemporary Art Cleveland, the Cleveland Opera, and the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. With Cleveland Clinic, MetroHealth, and University Hospitals systems vying for patients’ attention, residents enjoy outstanding health care. The city has highly rated public schools as well as outstanding charter schools for families to choose from. Families will also enjoy features like the Metroparks system with more than 100 hiking trails and five nature centers.
7. Lorain, OH
- Population change: A
- Rent price: A
- Stores: F
- Schools: F
- Health care: F
- Entertainment: F
- Restaurants: F
Lorain lies in northern Ohio at the mouth of the Black River on Lake Erie. The area offers a low cost of living, with an average rent of just $650 for a one-bedroom apartment. The densely urban environment offers a faster pace of living than the surrounding suburbs. The high school graduation and attainment rates in the city are higher than the state average. Popular attractions in the area include the Lorain Harbor Lighthouse and Lakeview Park. For shopping, Fligner’s Market can meet all your grocery needs with a 35,000-square-foot property and the longest full-service meat counter in the country.
8. Akron, OH
- Population change: F
- Rent price: B
- Stores: C
- Schools: C
- Health care: D
- Entertainment: C
- Restaurants: C
Akron lies along the Cuyahoga River in northeastern Ohio, less than an hour from Cleveland. The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment is $712 per month. The area has a dense suburban vibe with plenty of cultural diversity. The University of Akron is located here, boasting highly ranked teams in its College of Engineering. Akron’s public schools are highly rated as well. Popular local attractions include the Akron Civic Theater, High St. Hop House, and Akron Zoo.
Frequently asked questions about living in Ohio
Yes, there are several affordable places to live in Ohio, such as Toledo, Youngstown, and Akron. These cities offer a lower cost of living compared to some of the larger metropolitan areas in the state.
Some of the best cities in Ohio for families include Dublin, Westerville, and Mason. These cities have excellent schools, family-friendly activities and events, and low crime rates.
Yes, several cities in Ohio have a strong job market, including Columbus, Cincinnati, and Cleveland. These cities offer a diverse range of job opportunities across various industries.
The weather in Ohio varies depending on the season and location within the state. Generally, summers are hot and humid, and winters are cold and snowy. Spring and fall are typically mild and pleasant.
Ohio offers a range of recreational activities, including hiking and biking on the many trails throughout the state, visiting amusement parks like Cedar Point, and exploring the many museums and cultural institutions in cities like Columbus and Cleveland.
Yes, several up-and-coming cities in Ohio are worth considering for relocation, including Dayton, Springfield, and Akron. These cities are experiencing growth and revitalization, making them attractive options for those seeking new opportunities.
Whether you want ample entertainment, boutique shopping, or quiet suburban neighborhoods, Ohio has something delightful to offer. No matter which city you choose, you’re sure to enjoy your life in Ohio.
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