9 Best Places to Live in Ohio [2025]

Moving to Ohio is an excellent choice for those seeking out affordable cities, cultural offerings, and rolling green space. Renowned universities and thriving industries like healthcare also make the Buckeye State a promising place to grow your career.

If you're ready to move but aren't sure where the best places to live in Ohio are, you've got your work cut out for you. Choose between laid-back cities, thriving city centers, or waterfront living. Each city offers its own unique amenities and access to affordable neighborhoods.

Not sure where to start? We did the work for you and rounded up some of the best places to live in Ohio.

1. Columbus

• Population: 905,708
• Median 2-Bedroom Apartment Rent: $1,327
• Median Household Income: $62,350
• Walk Score: 41
• Transit Score: 40
• Bike Score: 38

Columbus, Ohio, combines a rich history and modern appeal, making it a top choice for renters. Originally a Native American settlement, the city was established in 1812 and saw economic growth with the arrival of the railroad in 1850. Today, Columbus attracts residents from Cleveland, Cincinnati, and Louisville, with its diverse job market spanning education, retail, bio-medical, and technology industries.

Ohio State University brings a vibrant college culture, especially with its popular Buckeyes football team, and its proximity to downtown offers residents easy access to shopping, dining, and entertainment. Downtown Columbus is walkable, with neighborhoods like German Village and Easton Town Center providing trendy shops, dining options, and cultural experiences.

The city is also known for its fashion industry, housing major brands like Express and Abercrombie & Fitch. Outdoor enthusiasts can explore the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, renowned for conservation efforts and diverse species, previously led by famed zookeeper Jack Hanna.

With reasonable rents, a lively downtown, and plenty of career opportunities, Columbus stands out among cities in Ohio, offering a balanced lifestyle, blending professional growth with recreational attractions.

2. Cleveland

• Population: 372,624
• Median 2-Bedroom Apartment Rent: $1,054
• Median Household Income: $39,041
• Walk Score: 57
• Transit Score: 44
• Bike Score: 52

Founded in 1796 near the Cuyahoga River, Cleveland, Ohio, evolved from a transportation hub to a dynamic city with affordable living options. Originally a manufacturing powerhouse, Cleveland’s economy now thrives on healthcare, driven by institutions like the Cleveland Clinic and major employers like University Hospitals and Case Western Reserve University.

Cleveland draws new residents from Akron, Columbus, and even New York, thanks to its job opportunities, vibrant culture, and reasonable rents. Higher education opportunities, including Cleveland State and Case Western, also make the city attractive to students and professionals alike.

Known for its deep ties to rock and roll, Cleveland is home to the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame and a lively music scene. Sports fans can cheer for the Cleveland Cavaliers, Guardians, and Browns, while art lovers enjoy venues like the Cleveland Museum of Contemporary Art and the Cleveland Orchestra.

Despite cold winters, Cleveland’s proximity to Lake Erie and numerous parks offers outdoor escapes, including the Cleveland Botanical Garden with its lush greenhouse and children’s garden. With its rich culture, job market, and green spaces, Cleveland stands out as one of the most well-rounded places in Ohio for a balanced urban lifestyle.

3. Cincinnati

• Population: 309,317
• Median 2-Bedroom Apartment Rent: $1,141
• Median Household Income: $53,314
• Walk Score: 49
• Transit Score: 44
• Bike Score: 36

Cincinnati, Ohio, began thriving in 1811 with the advent of steamboats on the Ohio River, quickly becoming a major trade hub known for its pork processing industry. Today, Cincinnati attracts newcomers from Columbus, Louisville, and Lexington, thanks to its diverse economy and affordable lifestyle. Key industries include manufacturing, finance, healthcare, and education, bolstered by nearby Kentucky job markets across the Ohio River.

College students flock to the city to attend the University of Cincinnati and other private institutions, drawn by reasonable rents and scenic riverfront views. Cincinnati’s cultural scene is vibrant, with the Cincinnati Art Museum showcasing over 67,000 works and the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center highlighting global and U.S. struggles for freedom.

Sports fans enjoy Reds games at Great American Ball Park, while the nearby Smale Riverfront Park offers family-friendly attractions like playgrounds, bike paths, and a carousel. The Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden, one of the oldest and best in the country, provides a lush escape with rare species, including white gorillas and tigers. With its mix of career opportunities, outdoor spaces, and cultural landmarks, Cincinnati might just be the best place to live in ohio.

4. Toledo

• Population: 270,871
• Median 2-Bedroom Apartment Rent: $941
• Median Household Income: $46,302
• Walk Score: 46
• Bike Score: 56

Founded in 1833 along the Maumee River, Toledo, Ohio, quickly developed into a vital Midwestern port, enhanced by the Miami and Erie Canal and a rail connection between New York and Chicago. Known as the "Glass City" due to its rich glass manufacturing history, Toledo’s economy today spans manufacturing, agriculture, and industrial protection. While job growth lags behind the national average, Toledo remains an affordable city for families, millennials, and students, with major employers like the University of Toledo and Bowling Green State University.

Toledo’s art and cultural scene shines with attractions like the Toledo Museum of Art, featuring an impressive glass collection and free admission. The city's maritime legacy is preserved at the National Museum of the Great Lakes, complete with historic ship exhibits and a museum tug.

Outdoor enthusiasts enjoy the Toledo Zoo, famous for its unique Hippoquarium and hundreds of animal species, and the Toledo Botanical Garden, which offers themed gardens and an adventure playground. With its blend of affordability, educational opportunities, and vibrant arts, Toledo is one of the many towns in ohio to provide an inviting lifestyle for residents seeking both cultural and recreational activities.

5. Akron

• Population: 190,469
• Median 2-Bedroom Apartment Rent: $1,074
• Median Household Income: $50,025
• Walk Score: 48
• Transit Score: 30
• Bike Score: 43

Founded in 1811, Akron, Ohio, grew rapidly with the opening of a canal to Pennsylvania, attracting industries for stoneware, farming equipment, and eventually rubber, earning it the nickname “Rubber Capital of the World.” Today, Akron remains a manufacturing hub, producing plastics, chemicals, aluminum, and glass. While job growth trails the national average, Akron offers affordable living for families, students, and professionals, with major employers like the University of Akron and nearby Kent State University.

Historical and cultural attractions include Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens, a 65-room Tudor Revival estate built for a Goodyear co-founder, offering scenic tours of its stunning grounds. The Akron Civic Theatre also draws crowds with its unique ceiling featuring rotating clouds and stars, providing a distinctive setting for live performances.

Outdoor enthusiasts appreciate the Ohio & Erie Canal's trails and the F.A. Seiberling Nature Realm, with paths, wildlife viewing, and peaceful gardens donated by another Goodyear co-founder. With its blend of history, affordability, and recreational spaces, Akron remains one of the most welcoming parts of ohio for residents of all ages.

6. Dayton

• Population: 135,512
• Median 2-Bedroom Apartment Rent: $937
• Median Household Income: $41,443
• Walk Score: 45
• Transit Score: N/A
• Bike Score: 47

Dayton is one of the best cities to live in Ohio with a great community and a surprising range of attractions. Known as the birthplace of aviation, Dayton is home to the National Museum of the United States Air Force, which draws aviation enthusiasts and history buffs alike.

Living here is affordable, with housing costs well below the national average, making it ideal for young professionals and families. Job opportunities have traditionally centered around manufacturing and healthcare, thanks to companies like Premier Health and Kettering Health, but tech and education sectors are growing too.

A potential drawback is that Dayton’s job growth isn’t as fast as some other cities, and like many Midwest cities, it has its fair share of winter weather. However, with neighborhoods like Oregon District offering trendy bars, unique shops, and a great arts scene, there’s always something to keep you entertained.

The city’s excellent bike trails, including the 340-mile Miami Valley Trail Network, make it easy to explore nature just outside the urban area. Dayton Public Schools, as well as nearby private and charter schools, provide solid education options, and Wright State University offers a range of higher education programs, keeping the city one of the best places to live in Ohio for families.

7. Youngstown

• Population: 59,108
• Median 2-Bedroom Apartment Rent: $904
• Median Household Income: $34,295
• Walk Score: 45
• Transit Score: N/A
• Bike Score: 47

Youngstown is making a comeback from its steel-town roots as one of the most beautiful places to live in Ohio, embracing a new wave of development and a low cost of living that makes it attractive to first-time renters and families. Once known for its booming steel industry, Youngstown has pivoted toward healthcare, logistics, and manufacturing, with new opportunities popping up in the tech sector. Mercy Health is a major employer, and startups are beginning to sprout around the Youngstown Business Incubator. Schools like Youngstown State University provide a local source of talent and a lively campus scene, bringing energy to the city.

One unique thing about Youngstown is Mill Creek Park, a 2,600-acre oasis with hiking trails, golf courses, and even a picturesque lily pond—perfect for weekend outings. However, Youngstown still faces challenges with job growth, so it might not be the best choice for those looking for a fast-paced career path. The city also has cold winters, which can be a bit intense. But for those who can brave the weather, Youngstown offers affordable living and the charm of a city on the rise.

8. Newark

• Population: 51,046
• Median 2-Bedroom Apartment Rent: $1,056
• Median Household Income: $56,284
• Walk Score: 36
• Transit Score: N/A
• Bike Score: 44

Newark combines the quiet charm of a smaller town with the conveniences of nearby Columbus, making it one of the best cities in Ohio for commuters. Just a 40-minute drive from Ohio’s capital, Newark offers affordable rents and housing in neighborhoods with a strong sense of community. Licking Memorial Health Systems and Owens Corning are notable employers, and tech is growing in the area, especially with Intel’s new developments nearby. For higher education, Central Ohio Technical College and Ohio State’s Newark campus offer local degree programs.

Downtown Newark has been revitalized in recent years, with the historic courthouse square at its heart, surrounded by coffee shops, boutiques, and eateries that bring people together. The Works, a science and history museum with interactive exhibits, is a local favorite, and families enjoy the outdoor fun at Dawes Arboretum. The downside to Newark is that public transportation options are limited, so having a car is a must for most. However, the family-friendly vibe, outdoor amenities, and easy commute to Columbus make Newark a great spot for those seeking a quieter lifestyle with big-city access.

9. Canton

• Population: 69,917
• Median 2-Bedroom Apartment Rent: $886
• Median Household Income: $37,627
• Walk Score: 48
• Transit Score: N/A
• Bike Score: 43

Canton is famous for being the birthplace of the NFL and home to the Pro Football Hall of Fame, but it’s also a welcoming city with a solid job market and a growing arts scene. Manufacturing, healthcare, and education are big players here, with Aultman Health Foundation and TimkenSteel among the top employers.

Stark State College and Malone University keep the area energized with students and offer affordable education options, making Canton a good place for students and professionals alike.

Downtown Canton is buzzing with creativity thanks to the Canton Arts District, featuring galleries, studios, and public art that’s more than just a passing fad. Every first Friday, the district hosts an event with live music, food trucks, and art shows, creating a sense of community and excitement.

Housing costs are reasonable, although property taxes can be a bit higher than in some neighboring towns. Canton has four distinct seasons, with cold winters, but its proximity to Akron and Cleveland offers more work and entertainment options. With affordable living, a strong cultural presence, and some serious sports history, Canton might just be the best city in Ohio for those who appreciate Midwestern values with a modern twist.

Where Should I Move to in Ohio?

Living in Ohio offers affordability, urban epicenters, and central location between the Midwest and Northeast make it an ideal place to live, work, and play. Ready to start looking for your new home? Browse Apartment List to find your next Ohio apartment.