The best places to live in Cincinnati
Areas and suburbs in Cincinnati are of widely varying character, and new house hunters are sure to find a neighbourhood that tickles their fancy. From urban city living to family-friendly suburbs, new arrivals from all walks of life should find something that meets their requirements, lifestyle and budget. Below are some recommended areas and suburbs in Cincinnati for new arrivals searching for a new home in the city.
Young and trendy neighbourhoods in Cincinnati
Mount Adams
Mount Adams is situated on a large hill overlooking Cincinnati’s city skyline and the Ohio River. The area has a European feel, with narrow winding streets and quirky shops, bars and cafés alongside old houses and churches. Mount Adams is a charming place to live and is surrounded on three sides by Eden Park, a fantastic urban park that boasts some of the city’s best-known landmarks, including the iconic Spring House Gazebo. Rental rates in Mount Adams are fairly pricey, and residents are mainly young professionals with high disposable incomes.
Over-the-Rhine (OTR)
Over-the-Rhine, or OTR, is located conveniently, just to the north of Downtown Cincinnati. The area is populated by 19th-century architecture and has a distinctive urban feel, attracting those looking for a vibey, energetic atmosphere. Restaurants, bars, and cafés are in abundant supply, while accommodation is primarily in the form of apartments. The trendy character and vast array of entertainment options come at a cost – be prepared to shell out a significant amount for a place to stay in this part of town.
Mount Auburn
If you’re looking for a comparatively affordable area, but aren’t willing to sacrifice convenience and character, then Mount Auburn is a great choice. Housing here is not as expensive as in other areas in Cincinnati and has a more suburban feel. The neighbourhood is on the quiet side, but its proximity to Downtown Cincinnati and Over-the-Rhine makes it a popular choice for students and young professionals. The area’s parks and green spaces are ideal for walks, yoga, or picnics.
Downtown Cincinnati
If you want to be in the thick of things, then Downtown Cincinnati might be perfect for you. Bars, restaurants, and cultural attractions like the Taft Museum of Art jostle with the Great American Ballpark and Paycor Stadium for your attention in this bustling metropolitan neighbourhood. Living here can be expensive, but the area offers a spectacular balance of entertainment, green spaces, and urban living.
Family-friendly neighbourhoods in Cincinnati
Indian Hill
Indian Hill is an upmarket area that is considered a great family-friendly neighbourhood. Houses are large, and the area has plenty of open green spaces. The accommodation here is primarily made up of single-family houses. A major draw for the area is its assortment of popular and highly rated schools. If you’re looking for a suburban feel and proximity to school, then look no further than Indian Hill.
Pleasant Ridge
This area has a strong community spirit and is a fantastic place for families. There’s plenty to do, with numerous parks, a community pool for the kids, and several quirky local restaurants and shops. Accommodation here is generally in the form of older, but spacious family homes. Rental costs tend to be in the middle of the road compared to other Cincinnati neighbourhoods.
Columbia Tusculum
Just 15 minutes from Downtown Cincinnati lies Columbia Tusculum, a beautiful historic neighbourhood with a mélange of older, more affordable houses and freshly renovated high-end properties. As the city’s oldest neighbourhood, CT’s houses are primarily Victorian style. Parents looking to live here will be delighted to find there are several excellent schools in the area, too.
Hyde Park
Those who want to live close to the city centre without having to deal with the fast pace of city life should consider Hyde Park. The area is an easy commute from Downtown Cincinnati, but has plenty of its own shops and restaurants. Hyde Park is a prestigious neighbourhood, and as a result, property prices are high. Active residents will be in their element, as they’ll find they are surrounded by runners, walkers, and cyclists. The area is popular with middle-class families thanks to its proximity to good schools and outstanding recreational amenities.