Moving To Cincinnati? Here’s Our Relocation Guide

Cincinnati, often considered the crossroads between the American South and the Midwest, gives it a unique and fun vibe.

The city is situated on the Ohio River, which forms the state line between Ohio and Kentucky. Cincinnati has a strong history rooted in American industrialization and German heritage, and is also home to the first professional baseball team, beautiful Art Deco architecture, rolling hills, and tree-lined streets.

The neighborhoods and suburbs in and around the city have something to offer for every lifestyle, and a lower cost of living makes it easy to enjoy the great restaurants, shopping, sports, and cultural activities found here.

Cincinnati Area Communities

Over-the-Rhine

Downtown Cincinnati’s Over-the-Rhine neighborhood is one of the most well-known in the area. With historic buildings dating back to the 1800s, plenty of food and entertainment, and a distinct vibe, this fun neighborhood is a great place to live if you want to be in the heart of the city.

Hyde Park

East of downtown and situated on the Ohio River, Hyde Park is a beautiful neighborhood with lots of green spaces, nice homes, great schools, and ample restaurants, upscale shops, and cultural activities.

Finneytown

Finneytown is a suburb in the northern part of Cincinnati, offering a more suburban lifestyle that appeals to many. Affordable homes, more space, good schools, and easy access to the city are just a few of the perks of living here.

Hamilton

A quick 30 minute drive from Cincinnati takes you to Hamilton, where residents enjoy their own distinct community that isn’t too far from the big city. If you’re looking for a more suburban lifestyle, this is a great place to live.

Downtown Cincinnati

For those looking to live the urban life, look no further than downtown Cincinnati, the heart of the cultural arts, food, and entertainment in the area. This neighborhood still offers all of the amenities of a bustling urban center, while still being easier to live in and navigate than other, larger cities.

Norwood

The City of Norwood is in the middle of Cincinnati, giving residents all of the perks of a major city while still enjoying tree-lined streets and repurposed historic buildings.

Indian Hill

Indian Hill is east of Cincinnati and is another great option for a suburban lifestyle. With rolling, tree-covered hills, highly-rated schools, and great public services, Indian Hill has a lot to offer.

Covington

Many people who work in the Cincinnati area actually live across the river in Kentucky. Covington offers its own distinct vibe with a charming city center, beautiful views of the Cincinnati skyline, and lots of interesting history.

Delhi

West of Cincinnati is Delhi Township, a suburb where city and country meet to create a tranquil getaway from the bustle of city life while still providing all of the amenities you want in a suburb.

Top Cincinnati School Districts

Cincinnati has great schools, where your children can thrive!

Finding the right school district for your children has a major impact on their quality of life and path to success. These are the top rated school districts in the Cincinnati Area; if you want to delve deeper into school records and standards for the State of Ohio, NewHomeSource has a guide to all the resources you need to find the right school for your child. 

Wyoming City Schools

Students Served: 1,924

School Breakdown: 3 elementary schools, 1 middle schools, and 1 high schools

Students Per Teacher: 16

Test Proficiency: Above state averages in all demographics

Communities Served: Wyoming, Compton Woods

Mason City School District

Students Served: 10,605

School Breakdown: 3 elementary schools, 1 middle schools, and 1 high schools

Students Per Teacher: 22

Test Proficiency: Above state averages in all demographics

Communities Served: Mason, Snidercrest

Madeira City School District

Students Served: 1,496

School Breakdown: 1 elementary schools, 1 middle schools, and 1 high schools

Students Per Teacher: 17

Test Proficiency: Above state averages in all demographics

Communities Served: Madeira, Kenwood Hills

Sycamore Community School District

Students Served: 5,280

School Breakdown: 4 elementary schools, 2 middle schools, and 1 high schools

Students Per Teacher: 16

Test Proficiency: Above state averages in all demographics

Communities Served: Montgomery, Blue Ash, Kenridge, Jones Farm, Sixteen Mile Stand

Mariemont City Schools

Students Served: 1,757

School Breakdown: 2 elementary schools, 1 middle schools, and 1 high schools

Students Per Teacher: 17

Test Proficiency: Above state averages in all demographics

Communities Served: Mariemont, Clare, Wooster Pike

Fort Thomas Independent Schools

Students Served: 3,071

School Breakdown: 3 elementary schools, 1 middle schools, and 1 high schools

Students Per Teacher: 18

Test Proficiency: Above state averages in all demographics

Communities Served: Fort Thomas

Beechwood Independent Schools

Students Served: 1,352

School Breakdown: 2 elementary schools, 2 middle schools, and 2 high schools

Students Per Teacher: 19

Test Proficiency: Above state averages in all demographics

Communities Served: Newtown, Britney Acres, Cherry Grove, Forestville, Salem Heights, Dry Run, Lawyerdale Estates

Forest Hills Local School District

Students Served: 7,356

School Breakdown: 6 elementary schools, 1 middle schools, and 2 high schools

Students Per Teacher: 19

Test Proficiency: Above state averages in all demographics

Communities Served: Newtown, Forest Hills

Lakota Local School District

Students Served: 1,025

School Breakdown: 1 elementary schools, 1 middle schools, and 1 high schools

Students Per Teacher: 23

Test Proficiency: Above state averages in all demographics

Communities Served: Liberty Township

Kings Local School District

Students Served: 4,283

School Breakdown: 4 elementary schools, 2 middle schools, and 2 high schools

Students Per Teacher: 19

Test Proficiency: Above state averages in all demographics

Communities Served: Landen, Fosters, Hagerman

Top Employers in Cincinnati

Cincinnati’s diversified economy supports manufacturing, medical, and commercial industries.

Kroger

Kroger employs over 45,000 Ohioans, with a large cluster of them found in Kroger’s Cincinnati based headquarters.

Macy’s

Macy’s is another major retailer that headquartered in Cincinnati that makes it into the list of top 20 largest employers in the entire state.

Mercy Health

Mercy Health operates numerous hospitals and locations across the greater Cincinnati Area, making it one of the largest employers in the city.

Cincinnati Children’s Hospital

Cincinnati Children’s Hospital plays a large roll in employing Cincinnati residents that work in the healthcare sector. 

University of Cincinnati Health

In addition to providing the city with jobs in the education sector, the University of Cincinnati’s Health Branch also employs people working in the healthcare industry.

Cincinnati Area Museums

American Sign Museum

You don’t have to be a sign collector to enjoy the American Sign Museum near downtown Cincinnati. Neon lights can be seen in every part of this museum, with over 200 signs on display and many more in its permanent collection. The museum has signs dating all the way back to the late 1800’s.

Cincinnati Art Museum

The Cincinnati Art Museum in downtown Cincinnati is one of the oldest art museums in the country, and it has a collection of over 67,000 works dating back 6,000 years. With free admission, it’s a great opportunity to admire some of the best art in the world.

Cincinnati Museum Center

Located in the awe-inspiring historical Cincinnati Union Terminal, the Cincinnati Museum Center is home to the Cincinnati History Museum, Museum of Natural History & Science, an Omnimax Theatre, History Library, and the Duke Energy Children’s Museum. All of the museums housed here are award-winning and appeal to all ages and interests.

National Underground Railroad Freedom Center

Visiting the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center in downtown Cincinnati provides the opportunity to learn about the Underground Railroad and its history in the area, as well as reflect on the importance of freedom.

Contemporary Arts Center

The Contemporary Arts Center was one of the first contemporary art museums in the country. Its sleek, modern building is easily recognizable in downtown Cincinnati and admission is free. In addition to works by now-famous modern artists like Andy Warhol, the museum also focuses on exhibits from up-and-coming contemporary artists.

Heritage Village Museum

Step back into the 1800’s and experience small-town rural Ohio life at Heritage Village Museum north of Cincinnati. Actors dressed in clothing from the 19th century bring the historic buildings to life and teach visitors about the history of the area.

Cincinnati Fire Museum

The Cincinnati Fire Museum is in a historic downtown firehouse, and showcases over 200 years of firefighting history in the area. It’s a great place to bring the whole family to appreciate firefighters – they even have the oldest fire engine in the area, dating back to 1836.

Great Parks in the Cincinnati Area

Reconnect with nature in Cincinnati’s fantastic parks.

Washington Park

Downtown Cincinnati has many great parks, and one of the most popular is Washington Park. With a playground and splash pad, families love visiting this green space, and a dog park and large lawn where events are regularly held can also be found here.

Ault Park

Ault Park is in eastern Cincinnati and has stunning hill-top views. The centerpoint of the park is a large pavilion built in 1930, a great place to admire the view or hold an event. The park also has lots of green space, a soccer field, and a beautiful flower garden.

Sawyer Point Park

Sawyer Point Park’s stunning riverside location makes it a popular place to relax and play. The park has concessions, sports courts, a playground, and a pavilion where a music festival is held each year. Stunning views of the bridges across the Ohio River make this park unique.

Mt. Airy Forest

With 1,500 acres of hiking, horseback riding, and mountain biking trails through a stunning, hilly forest area, Mt. Airy Forest is a great place to escape from the city and enjoy nature in northwest Cincinnati.

Winton Woods

North of Cincinnati is Winton Woods, a 2,555 acre park with a beautiful recreation lake, trails, golf course, sports courts, camping, and picnic areas. Visitors can take paddle boats across the lake, explore its many nature trails, and even camp out in this stunning park.

Eden Park

Eden Park is one of the best parks in the city, home to an art museum, conservatory, a beautiful lake, several interesting landmarks, and more. It even has a grove of buckeye trees, the state tree of Ohio.

Cincinnati Sports Teams

You Can Root On (Or Pretend You Don’t Care About)

Cincinnati loves its sports teams – especially the Cincinnati Reds, the nation’s first professional baseball team. Games are held at the Great American Ballpark in downtown Cincinnati, with a stunning view of the Ohio River. On game days, expect to see a lot of people wearing the color red in town.

Cincinnati is also home to an NFL team, the Bengals. Despite having never won a Super Bowl, the Bengals have a very loyal fan base in the area, with loud “Who Dey” chants heard at every football game. With several higher education institutions in the area, Cincinnati also has a strong college sports scene.

Living in Cincinnati

Live a life you love in Charlotte!

Cincinnati is a great place to live – a healthy job market, affordable cost of living, good schools, fun culture, and tons of entertainment options are just a few of the perks of this city.

Cincinnati also has good weather – winters are not as harsh as other cities in the Midwest, and fall and spring temperatures are ideal. There are plenty of lifestyle options for everyone – a vibrant downtown, suburban neighborhoods, and the country can all be found in and around Cincinnati.

Cincinnati Housing Trends

Cincinnati’s real estate market is very hot – home values have been steadily rising for the last few years. However, buyers can expect to pay close to asking price, and you’re less likely to find yourself in a bidding war. With a large number of surrounding suburbs, there are plenty of housing options at all price points.

Median Home Price: $165,000

Cincinnati is often found on lists of the most affordable cities in the country, so you’re sure to find the perfect home – and save some cash.

Growing Communities in North Cincinnati 

Middletown, Lebanon, and Princeton (the one in Ohio, not the one on the East Coast) make up three of the fantastic commuter cities in North Cincinnati. North Cincinnati has become a fantastic place for growing families looking to spread out in peaceful and private neighborhoods, away from the constant hustle and bustle of the city.

If living in a beautiful neighborhood, designed to help you thrive, sounds like the good life to you, explore North Cincinnati communities like Shaker Run and Reserve at Elk Creek, and start your journey to homeownership.

Growing Communities in Central Cincinnati

You don’t have to give up on your brand new dream home to enjoy an exciting urban lifestyle. Central Cincinnati is home to a number of new neighborhoods with brand new houses for sale. Explore new home communities like WatersEdge at Bellevue, and maybe you Central Cincinnati can be your home too. 

Growing Communities in South Cincinnati

South Cincinnati offers peaceful and affordable suburban living without a miserable commute. Cities like Richwood, Walton, and Independence are just a few of the wonderful towns in South Cincinnati with great schools and great communities.

Do you want to build your new home in South Cincinnati? Explore communities like Steeplechase and Meadow Glen to make your dream home a reality.

Growing Communities in East Cincinnati

Batavia and Amelia are two of the larger suburban towns that make up the charming East Cincinnati Area. New home neighborhoods like Lexington Run and Crosspointe give offer beautiful houses, a true sense of community, and well rated schools.

Amazing Cincinnati Restaurants

Cincinnati is the home of both Skyline Chili and Graeter’s Ice Cream, two Ohio staples. In addition to these famous eateries, the city offers a variety of fun places to grab a bite to eat.

Skyline Chili

You’re not really from Cincinnati if you haven’t tried Skyline Chili, founded in 1949 using a secret family recipe. Their famous chili is served on hotdogs or over pasta, uniquely Ohio-style.

Fireside Pizza

Fireside Pizza’s hipster vibe – it’s located in a historic Firehouse – and delicious hand-tossed, thin-crust pizza cooked with wood sourced from Ohio make it a popular place to grab a slice.

Graeter’s Ice Cream

Another Cincinnati staple, Graeter’s Ice Cream was founded in the city way back in 1870 and is now popular across the state. Their creamy, indulgent ice cream in a mix of both classic and fun flavors is irresistible.

Zip’s

If you’re craving a good burger in a cozy pub setting, Zip’s in eastern Cincinnati is the place to go.

Maplewood Kitchen & Bar

Downtown Cincinnati’s Maplewood Kitchen and Bar is a trendy place to grab breakfast or brunch, with a locally-focused New American menu.

Sotto

For a delicious high-end dining experience, look no further than Sotto, serving Italian food in a romantic setting in the heart of downtown Cincinnati.

Mazunte Taqueria

Mazunte Taqueria is one of the most popular Mexican restaurants in Cincinnati. They serve inexpensive street-style tacos, enchiladas, tostadas, and even have a salsa bar.

The Eagle

The Eagle serves delicious Southern-inspired comfort food in downtown Cincinnati. Their homemade mac & cheese, as well as their popular fried chicken, will make you want to come back for more.

Milya Cafe

Milya Cafe offers inexpensive, home-cooked Mediterranean food in a casual setting. For under $10 you can enjoy a delicious meal with large portions.

Uncle Yip’s Restaurant

Uncle Yip’s Restaurant is one of the best places to enjoy authentic Dim Sim style Chinese food in the Cincinnati area. With an extensive, mouth-watering menu, you won’t leave hungry.

Eli’s BBQ

If you’re looking to get your BBQ fix, look no further than Eli’s BBQ. With multiple locations in the Cincinnati area, Eli’s serves delicious slow-cooked meats and all of the delicious sides that come with BBQ.

Boomtown Biscuts & Whiskey

Boomtown Biscuits & Whiskey is known for – you guessed it – their homemade biscuits and extensive whiskey menu. Southern comfort food meets modern flavors at this restaurant.

Coffee Emporium

Coffee Emporium roasts their own coffee beans and offers a range of caffeinated beverages, pastries, and sandwiches in a cozy, inviting space.

Carlo & Johnny

Carlo & Johnny is an award-winning, high end steakhouse located in a historic mansion. They focus on the entire dining experience, and their great service and delicious menu make for a very special dining experience.

Incline Public House

Incline Public House sits on a hill in west Cincinnati and offers a stunning view of downtown. They serve typical bar food with a modern twist.

Sebastian’s

Sebastian’s is a west Cincinnati staple, serving inexpensive, authentic gyros and baklava since 1976.

Loving Hut

Loving Hut caters to vegetarians and vegans, but their varied meal – with dishes ranging from egg rolls to a vegetarian Rueben sandwich – will appeal to everyone.

Great Attractions for Cincinnati Stay-cations

Explore Cincinnati’s exciting street art scene!

Carew Tower Observation Deck

Carew Tower is an iconic part of the Cincinnati skyline – the art deco building is a National Historic Landmark – and it’s also the perfect place to admire the city views. The Carew Tower Observation Deck, 49 stories up, provides panoramic views of downtown Cincinnati, the Ohio River, and northern Kentucky.

Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden

The Cincinnati Zoo is the fifth oldest in the country, founded in 1875. The zoo has over 500 animals, and the adjoining Botanical Garden has over 3,000 plant species to admire and learn about. The zoo is home to famous Fiona the hippo, who was born premature and became the smallest hippo in the world to survive. She even has her own show!

Cincy Brew Bus

It’s no secret that Cincinnati loves its beer – with a strong German heritage, breweries can be found all over the city. The best way to experience the Cincinnati brewery scene is on the Cincy Brew Bus, which allows you to safely experience several breweries.

Jungle Jim’s International Market

Jungle Jim’s is more than just shopping – it’s a whacky, fun experience that feels more like you’re visiting a theme park than a market. Over 180,000 food items – many of which are international – can be found in this 300,000 square foot market, all in very unique displays. It’s truly something you have to see to believe.

Cincinnati Observatory

Located east of the city, the Cincinnati Observatory has the oldest telescope in America and is considered the birthplace of American astronomy. Regular events including astronomy clubs, date nights, and free stargazing, are held here.

Kings Island

For a fun day for all ages, Kings Island amusement park is the place to go. It’s the largest amusement and water park in the U.S., and with many roller coasters, water rides, and an award-winning kid’s area, it’s fun for the whole family.

BB Riverboats

The Ohio River is a major part of the city, and there’s no better way to appreciate it than on a riverboat cruise. BB Riverboats offers both dining and sightseeing cruises, as well as special events like weddings, on beautiful, classically-styled riverboats.

Cincinnati Music Hall

The Cincinnati Music Hall is the cultural arts hub for the city – the ballet, symphony orchestra, opera, pops orchestra, and a chorus are all based in this 1878 National Historical Landmark. Regular arts events are held in the Music Hall.

Shopping

When it comes to shopping, Cincinnati has something for everyone. The city has several traditional shopping centers with big-name stores, but there are also many unique places to browse.

Findlay Market

The oldest market in the state, Findlay Market’s downtown location and year-round vendors make it one of the most popular places to shop – and eat – in the Cincinnati area. It’s a great place to buy your groceries for the week, enjoy unique prepared foods, and experience the history of the city.

Ohio Valley Antique Mall

The Ohio Valley Antique Mall in northern Cincinnati has over 65,000 square feet of vintage finds. More than 450 vendors sell unique items including furniture, clothing, and collectibles. This antique mall is so large, aisles have street names – and you’re sure to find something interesting.

Idigenous

Over 150 artists are represented in Indigenous, a gallery that sells handcrafted goods ranging from pottery to jewelry and everything in between. It’s the perfect place to buy a unique gift and support local artists.

Rookwood Commons & Pavilion

Just a short drive from downtown, Rookwood Commons & Pavilion has a wide variety of your favorite brand-name stores, as well as a popular local bookstore, Joseph-Beth Booksellers. With over 70 stores and restaurants, it’s a great place to spend an afternoon.

Places of Worship

Find the right place of worship for you and your family in Cincinnati.

Houston is the most diverse city in the United States, and has numerous places of worship that represent a wide range of faiths and religions.

Calvary Episcopal Church

Calvary Episcopal Church is a historic church that offers a range of religious services, so you can find the right worship oprotunity for your lifestyle. 

Islamic Association of Cincinnati

The Islamic Association of Cincinnati and the Clifton Mosque serves the Muslim community in Cincinnati by offering a diverse set of events and classes that promote overall spiritual health.

Adath Israel Congregation

The Adath Israel Congregation is a warm and welcoming Conservative Jewish community that seeks to create a loving and warm congregation. 

Ohio Buddhist Vihara

The Ohio Buddhist Vihara offers free weekly guided meditation classes, and has a monthly class on Buddhism. The temple is always open for anyone who wants to visit.

Hindu Temple of Greater Cincinnati

The Hindu Temple of Greater Cincinnati is a traditionally styled temple that offers a spiritual sanctuary, welcoming to all who enter. It has 16 Deities in its temple.

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