Major Cities in Ohio by Size [2024]

Curious about where people are flocking to? Ohio is a popular choice, ranking as the country's seventh most populated state. In this guide, we'll explore Ohio's major cities by population and provide a comprehensive list of every city in the state. Plus, we'll highlight our top five favorite cities for renters.

Let’s dive in!

All of the rental data included here comes from our internal database of rent estimates, which is available for download. Population insights comes directly from the U.S. Census website.

Cities in Ohio

Major Cities in Ohio by Population

Explore Ohio's biggest cities by population. Keep reading for a deep dive into the top five to get a grasp of how dense each city may feel as a potential resident.

Full List of Cities in Ohio

Here's a full list of the over 250 cities in Ohio. It's best to know all of your options before making a move.

5 Biggest Cities in Ohio

Here's a little bit of information about the biggest cities in Ohio. If you're looking for more information about living in Ohio's's major cities, check out our guide to the best places to live in Ohio.

1. Columbus

• Median 1-Bedroom Rent: $1,102
• Median 2-Bedroom Rent: $1,319
• Population: 913,175
• Cost of Living: 2% cheaper than the average U.S. city

With almost a million residents, but cost of living below the national average, Columbus is an outstanding choice for renters looking to move into a big city without breaking the bank. It's also our top pick for best place in Ohio for renters. In particular, millennials and families come to Columbus for the diverse and growing economy in education, retail, automotive, bio-medical, and advanced computing, among others. As the capital of Ohio, Columbus also offers local government and civilian work.

Intriguingly, Columbus boasts more fashion per capita than any other city besides New York City and Los Angeles. Express, Abercrombie & Fitch, Victor's Secret, and other retail juggernauts call Columbus home. Beyond downtown, Easton Town Center is another trendy neighborhood with big-box retailers, pedestrian-friendly open-air shopping and squares, and dining.

2. Cleveland

• Median 1-Bedroom Rent: $807
• Median 2-Bedroom Rent: $1,006
• Population: 362,656
• Cost of Living: 6% cheaper than the average U.S. city

Cleveland is Ohio's second largest city, and another great option for renters. With some of the lowest rent prices in the country, ($807 for a one-bedroom) Cleveland is an absolute steal. At the same time, Cleveland was a town in decline for the latter half of the twentieth century, and the city still faces some issues with crime.

Manufacturing was the prominent industry in Cleveland for over a century, but today institutes like the renowned Cleveland Clinic ushered in a healthcare boom. University hospitals, the US government, and insurance are also significant employers around Cleveland. The city is also home to higher education opportunities, including Cleveland State and Case Western.

3. Cincinnati

• Median 1-Bedroom Rent: $891
• Median 2-Bedroom Rent: $1,126
• Population: 311,097
• Cost of Living: 5% cheaper than the average U.S. city
• Cincinnati Neighborhood Guide

For those who would like to live a little farther South, Cincinnati is another affordable option with tons of great urban amenities. Cincinnati is especially beloved for culture, dining, and attractions stretching from its urban core. As one of the most prestigious art museums in the US, the Cincinnati Art Museum houses over 67,000 works of art in an iconic building in Eden Park. Historical attractions are also prominent in Cincinnati. The National Underground Railroad Freedom Center displays the struggles for freedom from around the world, including the fight against US slavery.

With great deals on rent, too (one-bedrooms go for around $891), we strongly recommend Cincy for renters looking to move to Ohio.

4. Toledo

• Average 1-Bedroom Rent: $1,044
• Median 2-Bedroom Rent: $1,090
• Population: 265,305

With a little over a quarter million residents, Toledo takes the fourth spot on our list. Toledo's major industries include manufacturing, farming, industrial protection, and agriculture. We recommend Toledo to renters, and especially remote workers, because while Toledo's job growth lags behind the rest of the US, it is an affordable place to live for families to live with abundant educational opportunities. The University of Toledo and nearby Bowling Green State University are major employers and home to students and collegiate staff growing their careers.

For a one-of-a-kind outdoor experience, the Toledo Zoo offers the only exhibit in the world with an underwater Hippoquarium.

5. Akron

• Average 1-Bedroom Rent: $963
• Average 2-Bedroom Rent: $1,334
• Population: 188,701

The fifth biggest city in Ohio, Akron is a true manufacturing town, acting as a significant producer of plastics, chemicals, aluminum, glass, and rubber products. Job growth isn't as robust as the rest of the United States, though the city remains affordable, with current average rental listings for one-bedrooms under $1,000 a month.

The rolling hills in Akron along the Ohio & Erie Canal are the perfect way to spend the day outdoors with a mix of greenery and urban amenities. The land for the F.A. Seiberling Nature Realm was donated by the namesake Goodyear co-founder and features paths, wildlife viewing opportunities, and gardens.

Ready to Find Your Next Home in Ohio?

If you're wanting to do more than just learn about Ohio's biggest cities, and you're ready to take the plunge and move, then let Apartment List help you find a great location! Check out the listing guides for the top cities we mentioned here and start looking at fantastic apartments right now:

• Columbus apartment listings
• Cincinnati apartment listings
• Cleveland apartment listings
• Toledo apartment listings
• Akron apartment listings

FAQs about Major Cities in Ohio

What's the biggest city in Ohio?

Columbus is the biggest city in Ohio by population. It had 913,175 residents at the time of the last census.

What is the smallest city in Ohio?

Rendville, Ohio has a population of 38 residents, making it the state's smallest city.

How many cities are in Ohio?

Ohio has 253 municipalities called "cities." It has a total of 926 municipalities.

What is the safest city in Ohio?

Broadview Heights, Ohio has a crime rate of 110 per 100,000 residents, making it the safest city in Ohio.

What is the cheapest city in Ohio?

For renters, Cleveland consistently ranks the cheapest city in Ohio as well as one of the cheapest cities in the nation. Median overall rent in Cleveland in $988 a month.