Ohio, known as the Buckeye State, Ohio is a state that is often overlooked, but it is home to some of the best places to live in the United States. With its affordable cost of living, top-notch education, and diverse cultural offerings, Ohio has something to offer everyone. Whether you prefer the excitement of city living, the quiet of suburban life, or the charm of a small town, Ohio has a place for you.
In this article, we will highlight the best places to live in Ohio, including cities, suburbs, and small towns. We will provide detailed information on each location, including housing costs, amenities, schools, and more. So, whether you are a young professional, a growing family, or a retiree, you will find the perfect place to call home in Ohio.
Best Places to Live in Ohio
- Columbus
- Cincinnati
- Cleveland
- Worthington
- Powell
- Athens
- Dublin
- Westerville
- Mason
- Granville
- Hudson
- Yellow Springs
Top Cities in Ohio
1. Columbus
Columbus is the capital and largest city in Ohio, and it’s a great place to call home. The city is home to Ohio State University, which adds to the cultural and intellectual atmosphere. Columbus has a diverse economy, with major employers in industries such as healthcare, education, and finance. The city has a low cost of living compared to other major cities, and it’s a great place for families with excellent public schools.
2. Cincinnati
Cincinnati is another great option for those looking for a city with a rich history and culture. The city is known for its German heritage and has a thriving arts scene. Cincinnati also has a strong economy, with major employers in industries such as healthcare, manufacturing, and education. The city is affordable compared to other major cities and has a strong public school system.
3. Cleveland
Cleveland is a city on the rise, with a vibrant downtown and a diverse economy. The city has a strong healthcare industry, with major employers such as the Cleveland Clinic and University Hospitals. Cleveland also has a thriving arts and culture scene, with the Cleveland Museum of Art and the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. The city is affordable compared to other major cities, and it has a strong public school system.
4. Worthington
Worthington is another suburb of Columbus that’s known for its historic downtown and a strong sense of community. The town has a diverse economy, with major employers such as JPMorgan Chase and Nationwide. Worthington is a great place for families, with excellent public schools and community events such as the Old Worthington Farmer’s Market.
5. Powell
Powell is a suburb of Columbus that’s known for its excellent schools and outdoor recreation opportunities. The town is home to the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, which is one of the top-rated zoos in the country. Powell also has a strong economy, with major employers such as OhioHealth and Nationwide Children’s Hospital.
6. Athens
Athens is a college town located in southeastern Ohio that’s known for its vibrant arts and culture scene. The town is home to Ohio University, which adds to the intellectual and cultural atmosphere. Athens is a great option for those looking for a lively and youthful atmosphere, with plenty of dining, shopping, and entertainment options. The town is surrounded by natural beauty, with parks and hiking trails nearby. Athens is a great option for those who enjoy a small-town feel but still want access to urban amenities.
Top Suburbs in Ohio
1. Dublin
Dublin is a suburb of Columbus that’s known for its excellent schools and family-friendly atmosphere. The city has a strong economy, with major employers such as Cardinal Health and Wendy’s. Dublin also has a thriving arts and culture scene, with events such as the Dublin Irish Festival.
2. Westerville
Westerville is another Columbus suburb that has been recognized as one of the best places to live in the country. It boasts a small-town feel with excellent schools, beautiful parks, and a charming downtown area.
3. Mason
Mason is a suburb of Cincinnati that is known for its excellent schools, low crime rate, and family-friendly amenities. It is home to Kings Island amusement park, one of the largest in the country, which provides entertainment for all ages.
Top Small Towns in Ohio
1. Granville
Granville is a small town located east of Columbus and is known for its picturesque New England-style architecture, excellent schools, and quaint downtown area. The town is home to Denison University, which adds to the cultural and intellectual atmosphere. Granville is a great option for those looking for a quiet, rural lifestyle.
2. Hudson
Hudson is a small town located in northeastern Ohio that’s known for its charming downtown and excellent schools. The town has a strong sense of community, with events such as the Hudson Wine Festival and the Hudson Holiday Walk. Hudson is a great option for those looking for a quiet, suburban lifestyle. It is also home to several parks and hiking trails, making it a great place for outdoor enthusiasts.
3. Yellow Springs
Yellow Springs is a small town located near Dayton and is known for its artistic community, diverse population, and progressive values. It is home to Antioch College, which adds to the town’s intellectual and cultural offerings.
| City | Population | Housing Cost (Median) | Rental Cost (Median) | Cost of Living |
| Columbus | 905,748 | $199,900 | $1,015 | 92.6 |
| Cincinnati | 303,940 | $175,000 | $1,025 | 85.8 |
| Cleveland | 372,624 | $75,100 | $825 | 76.5 |
| Worthington | 14,252 | $282,000 | $1,125 | 110.5 |
| Powell | 13,933 | $392,700 | $1,550 | 120.7 |
| Athens | 24,757 | $181,100 | $695 | 90.9 |
| Dublin | 48,671 | $395,800 | $1,270 | 111.3 |
| Westerville | 40,387 | $266,900 | $1,020 | 101.9 |
| Mason | 32,187 | $267,800 | $1,160 | 97.9 |
| Granville | 5,883 | $328,900 | $1,040 | 111.5 |
| Hudson | 22,283 | $319,900 | $1,240 | 111.1 |
| Yellow Springs | 3,690 | $226,500 | $950 | 96.8 |
FAQs
How did you determine the best places to live in Ohio?
The best places to live in Ohio were determined based on a variety of factors such as quality of life, affordability, economic opportunities, and access to amenities.
Is Ohio a good state to raise a family?
Yes, Ohio is a great state to raise a family with its many excellent schools, family-friendly communities, and affordable cost of living.
What are some other popular cities in Ohio?
Aside from the cities mentioned in the article, other popular cities in Ohio include Columbus, Cleveland, Cincinnati, and Dayton.
What are the job opportunities like in Ohio?
Ohio has a diverse economy with opportunities in a variety of industries including healthcare, education, manufacturing, and finance. The state also has a low unemployment rate compared to the national average.
Are there any notable cultural attractions in Ohio?
Yes, Ohio has many notable cultural attractions such as the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in Cleveland, the Cincinnati Museum Center, and the Columbus Museum of Art.
What are the best schools in Ohio?
Ohio has many excellent public and private schools. Some of the top-rated schools in the state include Dublin Coffman High School, Hudson High School, and Upper Arlington High School.
Conclusion
Ohio offers a high quality of life with affordable living costs, excellent schools, and diverse cultural offerings. Whether you prefer the excitement of city living, the peace, and quiet of suburban life, or the charm of a small town, Ohio has something to offer everyone. From the thriving cities of Columbus, Cincinnati, and Cleveland to the quaint small towns of Granville, Hudson, and Yellow Springs, Ohio has a place for you to call home. So, start your search today and discover the best places to live in Ohio.
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