Cincinnati sits along the Ohio River and exudes Midwestern charm. For anyone considering moving to the “Queen City,” there’s a lot to unpack. From sports culture and green spaces to its thriving job market and unique quirks, Cincinnati is a sweet spot to settle down. Before you find your place, it’s important to understand the pros and cons of living in Cincinnati. Here’s a brief breakdown of 13 of the most prominent positives and negatives of calling Cincinnati home.
Cincinnati at a glance
Walk Score: 49 | Bike Score: 36 | Transit Score: 44
Median Sale Price: $265,500 | Average Rent for 1-Bedroom Apartment: $1,610
Cincinnati neighborhoods | Houses for rent in Cincinnati | Apartments for rent in Cincinnati | Homes for sale in Cincinnati
1. Pro: Affordable by city standards
Compared to other large Ohio cities, Cincinnati is refreshingly affordable. Housing costs are significantly lower than the national median of $433,229. Renting an apartment in Cincinnati is reasonable as well with average prices ranging from $1,385 to $2,002.
2. Con: Public transportation limitations
While Cincinnati has public transportation through its Metro bus system, the lack of a widespread rail system is noticeable. Commuting without a car can be tricky, particularly if you live outside downtown. Bus routes tend to be limited and may not run frequently enough for some residents’ needs. For those who prefer a car-free lifestyle, getting around can feel cumbersome.
3. Pro: Parks and open spaces
Cincinnati is home to several top-notch parks, including the expansive Eden Park and Smale Riverfront Park. Whether you’re an avid hiker or just someone who enjoys being outside, you’ll find plenty of beautiful spaces to relax in the city.
4. Con: Rush hour traffic
While driving is a common way to get around, traffic congestion can become a headache, especially during rush hour. Major highways like I-71 and I-75 experience regular slowdowns. On busy days, commutes from suburban areas into downtown can take significantly longer than expected. This congestion may deter some people who are used to smoother commutes.
5. Pro: Sports and entertainment
Cincinnati is a sports lover’s paradise, with the Bengals (NFL) and the Reds (MLB) calling the city home. Beyond sports, there’s the Cincinnati Zoo, the Cincinnati Art Museum, and the iconic Over-the-Rhine district, where you’ll find craft breweries and live music venues. The city’s entertainment options keep weekends full of activities for both families and singles.
6. Con: Unpredictable weather
In classic midwestern style, Cincinnati experiences a full range of seasons. That unpredictability can be a downside for some. Summers are humid, and winters can be bitter with plenty of snow. Fall and spring offer pleasant days, but temperature swings happen often. Be prepared for rapid weather changes, sometimes all in a single day.
7. Pro: Thriving job market
Cincinnati has a strong job market, especially in industries like healthcare, finance, and manufacturing. Major employers like Procter & Gamble and Cincinnati Children’s Hospital provide stability and growth opportunities. The city’s growing tech scene also offers new prospects for workers in technology. If you’re job hunting, Cincinnati has a range of opportunities to explore.
8. Con: Air quality issues
Cincinnati has had challenges with air quality, largely due to its industrial background and location in the Ohio River Valley. On some days, particularly in the summer, the air quality can be lower than desired. While improvements have been made, occasional ozone alerts still occur, which may concern those with respiratory issues.
9. Pro: Character-filled neighborhoods
Cincinnati is filled with neighborhoods, each with its own distinct personality. Areas like Mount Adams offer great views and nightlife, while Hyde Park is more residential and family-friendly. Over-the-Rhine (OTR) is a trendy spot filled with historic charm and new developments.
10. Con: Limited nightlife
While Over-the-Rhine and downtown offer lively nightlife options, other parts of Cincinnati can feel quiet after dark. Neighborhoods like Anderson and Blue Ash offer fewer evening activities, with more focus on family-oriented environments. If you’re looking for a city with 24/7 energy, Cincinnati may fall short.
11. Pro: History and architecture
Cincinnati’s architecture reflects its rich history, with iconic buildings like the Roebling Suspension Bridge and Music Hall. The city’s historic neighborhoods, especially Over-the-Rhine, showcase 19th-century Italianate buildings that transport you back in time. Walking through the city, you’ll experience a beautiful blend of past and present, making it a fun place to explore.
12. Con: Hilly terrain
Cincinnati’s hilly geography might surprise newcomers, especially those moving from flatter regions. Walking or biking in neighborhoods like Mount Adams or Price Hill can be quite a workout. While the views from these hilly areas are stunning, the steep inclines may make day-to-day travel challenging for some.
13. Pro: Growing food scene
Cincinnati’s food scene is expanding, with tons to offer beyond its famous Skyline Chili. The city has a burgeoning farm-to-table movement, along with diverse international cuisine in neighborhoods like OTR and Clifton. Food festivals and new restaurants are common, giving food lovers plenty of dining options.
A native of the northern suburbs of Chicago, Carson made his way to the South to attend Wofford College where he received his BA in English. After working as a copywriter for a couple of boutique marketing agencies in South Carolina, he made the move to Atlanta and quickly joined the Rent. team as a content marketing coordinator. When he’s off the clock, you can find Carson reading in a park, hunting down a great cup of coffee or hanging out with his dogs.
