Cincinnati, OHBest Places To Live in the U.S. in 2023
Cincinnati, known as the Queen City, is a crown jewel of the Midwest, fostering a strong sense of community with a vibrant arts scene, world-class dining and a passionate fanbase. The city offers plenty of things to do and maintains a low cost of living.
Cincinnati, OH, Is One of the Best Cities To Live in America
Cincinnati, OH, known as the “Queen City” for its beauty and culture, is a crown jewel of the Midwest. This mid-sized city of 307,818 sits along the Ohio River right across from Northern Kentucky. Its rolling hills cast a beautiful landscape and naturally create distinct neighborhoods with unique personalities. With its blend of Midwestern friendliness, cultural amenities, inviting green spaces and affordability, Cincinnati is quickly becoming known as one of the best places to live in the U.S.
In recent years, Cincinnati has seen the revitalization of historic city neighborhoods such as the Over-the-Rhine district. These areas are now filled with hip restaurants and bars, conveniently joined by “The Connector,” an electric-powered streetcar that offers free transportation along its 3.6-mile loop. The city is also filled with stunning green spaces like Eden Park. These kinds of amenities, as well as a strong job market, are among the many reasons that Cincinnati is an excellent place for young professionals to plant roots. In fact, the financial website SmartAsset gave Cincinnati the top spot on their list of “Best Cities for New College Grads” in 2022.
While top local universities help drive the economy with research and innovation, sports fans will also appreciate that Cincinnati is home to one of the most exciting events in college sports — the “Crosstown Shootout” between local rivals University of Cincinnati and Xavier University. The city comes alive when these basketball teams match up! Beyond sports, the city has thriving museums, art spaces and theaters.
What’s particularly impressive about Cincinnati is that despite these incredible amenities, the city’s housing market remains highly affordable. With a median house price of $205,389 and a low cost of living, it’s become an attractive option for young people looking to purchase their first home.
Cincinnati, OH Quality of Life LivScore
Cincinnati, OH Top Categories
Amenities
Housing & Cost of Living
Transportation
Cincinnati ranks highest for amenities, housing and transportation.
Weather and Outdoor Activities in Cincinnati, OH
Cincinnati has hot and humid summers, but the winters, while cold, are relatively mild. Summers see an average daily high above 77°F, with July being the hottest month. The average winter high temperature is below 49°F, and the coldest month, January, has average lows of 25°F and highs of 40°F.
The average annual snowfall in Cincinnati is 12 to 14 inches each year.
The average annual rainfall in Cincinnati is just slightly above the national average at 42 inches.
Cincinnati averages 186 sunny days a year.
Take in the views from the 3-mile Cincinnati Riverwalk (also called the Ohio River Trail). This path winds along the Ohio River and has lovely and unique parks to enjoy along the way. For something different, take in a Shakespeare in the Park performance at one of the other beautiful parks throughout the city.
Cincinnati Weather
186 days
Average Annual Sun
42 inches
Average Annual Rain
13 inches
Average Annual Snow
Things To Do in Cincinnati, OH
Sitting on the northern side of the Ohio River, Cincinnati played a vital role in the Underground Railroad, as enslaved people could reach freedom by crossing the river from the southern slave states. Learn more by visiting Cincinnati’s National Underground Railroad Freedom Center.
The Cincinnati Art Museum offers free admission year-round! They also offer great free and low-cost programming for adults, teens and families.
Originally opened in 1855, The Findlay Market, located just blocks from downtown, is an iconic market hosting 50 full-time shops selling everything from meats and local vegetables to ethnic foods and flowers. Weekends offer even more to explore as farmers markets are set up in the outdoor space, and there are often street performers and entertainment.
Rhinegeist Brewery, located in the historic neighborhood of Over-the-Rhine, pioneered the city’s craft beer movement. With a streetcar stop just outside, a happening rooftop bar and great locally-crafted brews, this is a fantastic place to meet with friends after work (or any time!).
The Local and State Economy in Cincinnati, OH
Cincinnati’s economy is as diverse as the city, and major industries include advanced manufacturing, technology and consumer goods. There are several major employers in Cincinnati, including Procter & Gamble, Kroger Company, American Financial Group and Fifth Third Bank, all headquartered in the city.
In 2023, the sales tax rate in Cincinnati is 7.8%.
Yes, Ohio has a state income tax.
Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center is consistently ranked as one of the country’s top children’s hospitals, offering a wide range of pediatric specialties and services. The University of Cincinnati Medical Center, Christ Hospital and the TriHealth System hospitals provide quality health care for adults.
There are several major colleges and universities in Cincinnati, OH, including the University of Cincinnati, Xavier University, Cincinnati State and the Art Academy of Cincinnati.
Quick Facts About Cincinnati, OH
- Median Household Income
- $48,700
- Median Home Value
- $204,795
- Average State Property Tax
- $2,447
- Total Population
- 307,818
- Median Rent/Mo.
- $737
- Average Commute
- 19.72 minutes
Cincinnati’s robust local economy makes it one of the best places to live in the U.S., along with a diverse array of amenities and things to do. Learn more about the cost of living in Cincinnati or consider other great places to live in the Midwest. Another good resource as you consider a move: The Ultimate Guide To Finding Your Best Place To Live.
