Welcome to Cincinnati, the Queen City with a crown of character! Cincinnati has a long history dating back over 200 years and earned its nickname “Queen City” due to its distinct architectural style, prominently featuring the use of local gray limestone in historic downtown buildings and neighborhoods. As the third largest city in the Buckeye State, Cincinnati is located along the Ohio River in southwest Ohio and its captivating combination of large city amenities with a commitment to hospitality attracts both visitors and residents to its charm. An enticing urban energy flows through the streets, fueled by a rich history and thriving cultural offerings suitable for all. Grab a cup of locally roasted coffee, spend the afternoon strolling through one of Cincinnati’s many parks, and by nightfall, you will understand why this city has earned its reputation!
Where to Live
Living in the heart of Cincinnati’s urban core (downtown) provides an opportunity for adventure, culture, and convenience, perfect for young professionals and singles. Major employers, renowned restaurants, world-class performance venues, and professional sporting arenas are all within easy walking distance. Luxury high-rise apartments and condos offer panoramic views and rooftop amenities, though, don’t forget that premium locations come at a cost! For spontaneous nights out, Fountain Square’s lively scene can’t be beaten. Other popular nearby neighborhoods for young professionals and singles are Hyde Park and Oakley which offer historic charm along with affordable apartments in converted homes, while still maintaining an energetic urban atmosphere. Shops and eateries lining Madison Road and Erie Avenue allow residents to explore on foot. In Downtown Cincinnati you can find 1-bedrooms starting at $1,400/mo. and 2-bedrooms starting at $2,250/mo.
Mason and the surrounding suburbs of Cincinnati are widely known for their great school systems; it’s no wonder that this community has become a prime choice for families! Both the Mason City School District and neighboring Sycamore School District, which encompasses Montgomery and parts of Blue Ash, consistently rank among the top districts in the Greater Cincinnati metropolitan area. In addition to public education options, there are over 100 private and parochial schools that dot the landscape in the tri-state area. Housing opportunities in Mason include options from luxury apartment living to townhome developments and spacious single-family homes at varying price points. While Montgomery and Blue Ash offer a more traditional small-town atmosphere with walkable town centers, housing prices tend to be higher given land constraints. In Mason, 4 bedrooms start at $2,500+/mo.
Rental Trends
For the last two years, Cincinnati has consistently held its position as one of the leading rental markets in the United States due to its stable economics, low cost of housing, and strong rental market. Compared to other major U.S. cities, real estate in Cincinnati remains relatively inexpensive, making properties affordable and contributing to the overall health of the real estate market. The city’s appeal is further heightened for families and young professionals due to its reasonable housing prices, strong economy, and low cost of living. The tech industry is also growing in Cincinnati and positively impacted the economy by creating more jobs and increasing the demand for housing. Experts anticipate that Cincinnati’s rental market in 2024 will be characterized by a tight housing supply, rising rental prices, enhanced technology amenities, evolved community amenities, and increased competition from short-term rental properties. While the inventory of rental properties expanded slightly early in 2023, listings declined substantially by November resulting in a notable surge in demand for apartment rentals within the Cincinnati housing market.
The good news is that Cincinnati offers a variety of housing stock that is well-suited to differing needs and budgets including single-family homes, townhomes, condominiums, and apartment units. Prospective renters can rely on the guidance and support of their dedicated Destination Services Consultants throughout the rental search and relocation process. Being well-prepared will maximize assignees’ chances of finding their ideal housing accommodations in Cincinnati.
Insider Tips
Downtown’s Findlay Market transports visitors to an open-air bazaar. Local farmers and artisans showcase fresh seasonal bounty alongside global delicacies and prepared foods. Both locals and visitors alike are immersed in the atmosphere. Nearby, craft breweries and chef-driven restaurants provide tasting journeys of culinary creativity and innovation. For an even more immersive experience, Jungle Jim’s International Market spans an enormous footprint- this global grocery mecca stocks over 50,000 exotic products, allowing the exploration of flavors from around the world. Immigrants can find comfort in familiar tastes from back home, while adventuresome eaters sample an array of international ingredients. This market has become a favorite destination welcoming new residents to truly experience the diversity Cincinnati has to offer. And, you can’t live in Cinci without trying their infamous “skyline chili” which will warm you up during the chilly winters.
Local Insights
Cincinnati offers an array of attractions and activities that cater to a wide range of interests. The city’s iconic skyline is best appreciated from the scenic vantage point of the John A. Roebling Suspension Bridge, a historic structure that spans the Ohio River. For those seeking cultural enrichment, the Cincinnati Art Museum has an impressive collection of artworks, while the Cincinnati Museum Center at Union Terminal offers a fascinating exploration of science, history, and children’s exhibits.
Home to major league baseball team, the Cincinnati Reds, and the NFL Franchise, Cincinnati Bengals, the city’s downtown stadiums come alive with energetic fans throughout the year. Cincinnati is also a hub for college athletics, with the University of Cincinnati Bearcats competing in various sports and gaining recognition for their achievements. Dating back to 1869, the city’s sports scene is deeply ingrained in its identity, fostering a sense of community, excitement, and pride among its residents. Be sure to get yourself a Bengals or Reds jersey (kit) and catch a game so you can fit in with the locals!
Cincinnati has a diverse economy supporting several strong industries. Healthcare, transportation, consumer goods, and manufacturing play a foundational role in the local economy, and unemployment in the region typically remains below national levels, underscoring Cincinnati’s robust and resilient job market. Residents enjoy an affordable yet culturally rich city with world-class amenities. Cincinnati successfully blends Midwestern work ethic with Southern hospitality to cultivate a tight-knit community feel.
