Urblytica 30 days free banner
Urblytica - Free Event Listing
List Business List Event

Cincinnati, Ohio

USA · Comprehensive city data and intelligence

53
Overall Score

Cincinnati, often called the "Queen City" or "Cincy," is a vibrant metropolitan area located on the Ohio River, bordering Kentucky. Founded in 1788, it boasts a rich history, evident in its stunning 19th-century architecture, particularly in neighborhoods like Over-the-Rhine. The city has undergone significant revitalization in recent decades, blending its historic charm with modern amenities and a growing urban core. People are drawn to Cincinnati for its diverse economy, affordable cost of living compared to many major U.S. cities, and a strong sense of community. It's a hub for arts, culture, and professional sports, offering a balanced lifestyle with both urban excitement and access to natural beauty.

About Ohio

Ohio, located in the Midwest, is characterized by a blend of urban centers and rural landscapes, offering a balance of city amenities and small-town charm. The state's economy is robust and diverse, with manufacturing being a significant sector, particularly in plastics, rubber, fabricated metals, and automobiles. Other major industries include financial activities, healthcare, education, and bioscience, with growing technology and logistics sectors. Living in Ohio is generally affordable, with the cost of living, especially housing, being lower than the national average. The climate is continental, featuring four distinct seasons with hot, humid summers and cold, snowy winters, and precipitation occurring year-round.

314,915
Population
$79K
Avg Salary
103
Cost Index
52.6
Quality Score
How this 53/100 was calculated five components, with every reading behind them
Component Readings used Points Weight Contributes
Safety Safety score: 65 / 100 65.0 30% 19.5
Affordability Cost of living index (100 = national baseline): 103.0 40.0 25% 10.0
Economy & jobs Median household income: $52,909 Income needed to live here: $55,000 Unemployment rate: 3.2% 52.6 20% 10.5
Growth Population growth rate: 0.7% Job growth rate: 0.44% 35.7 15% 5.3
Business climate assessment Business climate assessment: 72 / 100 72.0 10% 7.2
Overall score 52.6

Provenance. These figures were produced by the research pass recorded as Gemini (Tier 2 (reasoned), q=90 ✓ perfect), last refreshed 3 July 2026. They are researched estimates drawn from public sources, not a licensed data feed.

Each component is scored against fixed published endpoints, so this number is comparable with any other city and does not move as the dataset grows. Scoring framework 2026.10 — full methodology, weights and accepted ranges.

Businesses in Cincinnati

Featured local businesses in Cincinnati.

Put your business in front of people moving to Cincinnati Featured businesses appear here for everyone researching Cincinnati. Add a featured spot to your banner package, or start with a free listing.

Quality Scores

Business
72
Livability
70
Affordability
97
Growth
68

Cost of Living

The cost of living in Cincinnati is generally considered more affordable than the national average. Housing expenses, in particular, are notably lower, contributing significantly to the city's overall affordability. While utility prices are also slightly below the national average, transportation costs, including gas and public transit, are comparable. This makes Cincinnati an attractive option for individuals and families seeking a metropolitan experience without the high price tag often associated with larger coastal cities. The city's diverse neighborhoods offer a range of housing options, from historic homes to modern apartments, catering to various budgets.

Average Rent
$1,410/mo
Groceries
$493/mo
Transport
$120/mo
Utilities
$178/mo
Healthcare
$250/mo
Gym membership (monthly)
$40.00
Cinema ticket
$13.00
Restaurant meal (mid-range)
$25.00
Monthly groceries
$493.00
Doctor visit (without insurance)
$160.00

Salary Insights

Cincinnati's economy is robust and diverse, employing approximately 1.13 million people in its metropolitan area as of 2024. Key industries driving the local economy include Health Care & Social Assistance, Manufacturing, and Retail Trade. Major employers in the region include prominent companies like Procter & Gamble, The Kroger Company, GE Aviation, and several large healthcare systems such as Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center and UC Health. The job market has shown steady growth, with the employed population in the metropolitan area increasing by 0.438% in 2024. The average annual salary in Cincinnati was reported at $79,000 in May 2026.

The average salary in Cincinnati is $79,000 per year. You would need approximately $55,000 to live comfortably.

Top Industries

Retail Trade Manufacturing Education Health Care & Social Assistance Professional, Scientific, & Technical Services

Climate

🌡️
Avg Temp
☀️
Summer High
❄️
Winter Low
🌧️
"
Annual Rain
💧
70.00%
Humidity
🌤️
Sunny Days

Transport

Getting around Cincinnati involves a mix of driving, public transit, and walkability, depending on the neighborhood. The average commute time for workers in Cincinnati was 22.4 minutes in 2024. While many residents rely on personal vehicles, with car ownership being similar to the national average, public transportation is available through the Metro bus system and the Cincinnati Bell Connector streetcar. The city's overall Walk Score is 49, indicating that most errands require a car, though some neighborhoods like Over-The-Rhine and the Central Business District are highly walkable with scores of 94 and 92 respectively.

22 min
Avg Commute
40.00/10
Transit Score
49.00/10
Walkability
Medium
Car Dependency

Pros & Cons

Advantages
The cost of living in Cincinnati is 3% lower than the national average, making it more affordable than many major U.S. cities.
Cincinnati boasts a diverse and growing economy, with strong sectors in healthcare, manufacturing, and professional services.
The city offers a vibrant arts and culture scene, including museums, theaters, and a symphony orchestra.
Several neighborhoods, such as Over-The-Rhine and the Central Business District, are highly walkable, with Walk Scores of 94 and 92 respectively.
The median property value in Cincinnati was $230,900 in 2024, significantly lower than the national average, making homeownership more accessible.
Drawbacks
While some areas are highly walkable, the city's overall Walk Score of 49 indicates a car-dependent environment for most errands.
Public transportation, while available, is not considered the most dependable, often necessitating a personal vehicle.
The city's poverty rate was 25.5% in 2024, which is higher than the national average.
Cincinnati experiences extreme seasonal variations in humidity, with muggy summers and very cold, snowy winters.
The average commute time in the Cincinnati metropolitan area was 2 hours daily in 2023, which is relatively long compared to some other cities.

Questions about Cincinnati

What people ask about living in and moving to Cincinnati, Ohio.

How are the public schools in Cincinnati rated? Schools & Education 1 answer

Public schools in Cincinnati vary across districts, with some performing well on state assessments and others needing improvement. Parents can review district performance reports, visit school websites, and attend open houses to gauge curriculum quality, extracurricular offerings, and student support services. Additionally, local parent forums and community groups often share firsthand experiences.

What healthcare facilities are nearby for specialized treatments? Healthcare 1 answer

The region hosts several hospitals and specialty clinics offering a wide array of medical services, from general care to advanced procedures. These facilities are located throughout the city and its suburbs, with some focusing on specific specialties such as cardiology, oncology, or orthopedics. Patients can use the city’s health department portal to locate hospitals, read patient reviews, and verify insurance covera...

What should I know about moving into Cincinnati from another state? Moving Here 1 answer

When moving to Cincinnati, consider the city’s seasonal weather, which includes warm summers and cold winters. Plan your move around local events and school calendars to avoid peak traffic times. Research local utility providers for electricity, water, and internet, and set up mail forwarding through the postal service. Additionally, familiarize yourself with the city’s zoning regulations and parking rules if you pla...

What is the average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Cincinnati? Housing 1 answer

The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Cincinnati is about $1,410 per month. This figure reflects typical market rates across the city, though prices can vary by neighborhood and building amenities. For a more precise estimate, you can browse local rental listings on reputable real estate websites or consult the city’s housing department for recent market reports.

What public transportation options are available in Cincinnati? Getting Around 1 answer

Cincinnati offers a range of public transit options, including buses that cover most of the city and surrounding suburbs. The city’s transit authority provides schedules, fare information, and route maps on its website. For commuters, it’s useful to check service frequency during peak hours and explore park-and-ride facilities near major routes.

What is the overall vibe of Cincinnati for young professionals? General 1 answer

Cincinnati offers a blend of historic charm and modern amenities that appeal to young professionals. The downtown area features a mix of restaurants, bars, coworking spaces, and cultural venues. The city’s growing tech and healthcare sectors provide employment opportunities, while nearby parks and riverfront trails offer outdoor recreation. Community events, such as street festivals and art walks, foster a lively soc...

How does the cost of living in Cincinnati compare to other cities? Cost of Living 1 answer

Cincinnati’s cost of living index is 103, slightly above the national average of 100. Housing, food, and transportation costs are modestly higher than in cities with an index under 100, but overall expenses remain reasonable. If you’re used to a 95 index, you might find Cincinnati’s living costs a bit higher, especially in rent, but wages and public services balance the scale.

What is the average salary for tech jobs in Cincinnati? Jobs & Economy 1 answer

The average salary in Cincinnati is $79,000 per year. Tech roles often pay above this average, but exact figures depend on experience, specialization, and company size. For detailed salary ranges, refer to local job boards, industry reports, or professional networking groups that focus on Cincinnati’s tech community.

Is Cincinnati a safe place to live? Safety 1 answer

Cincinnati’s safety score is 65 out of 100, indicating moderate safety levels. Crime rates differ by neighborhood, with some areas experiencing higher incidents than others. Residents can consult neighborhood crime maps, local police department statistics, and community watch groups to assess safety in specific districts. Engaging with local residents and visiting neighborhoods during different times of day can also...

What are the must-see attractions in Cincinnati? Things to Do 1 answer

Cincinnati boasts a mix of historic sites, cultural institutions, and outdoor spaces. Visitors often enjoy exploring the city’s riverfront parks, historic neighborhoods, art museums, and performing arts venues. Seasonal festivals and farmers’ markets also highlight local cuisine and crafts. Checking the city’s tourism website or local event calendars will give you a current list of popular attractions and upcoming ev...

Some answers here were drafted as a starting point and may be out of date. Live in Cincinnati? Add your own.

Frequently Asked Questions

Urblytica benchmarks its Cost of Living Index against a United States national average baseline of 100. A score of 115 means a city is approximately 15% more expensive than the national average, while a score of 85 indicates it is 15% more affordable. This composite calculation is weighted across six primary expenditure categories: housing, utilities, grocery items, transportation, healthcare, and miscellaneous goods.

Urblytica aggregates housing data from multiple authoritative sources, including Multiple Listing Service (MLS) feeds, municipal property tax registries, the U.S. Census Bureau’s American Community Survey (ACS), and verified historical deed transactions. This multi-tier aggregation ensures precision in tracking median home values and rental rates.

A municipality must meet minimum data-density thresholds—including consistent reporting population samples from the U.S. Census and active residential or commercial real estate transaction feeds—to ensure statistical significance before a complete scoring profile is published.

When primary agencies (such as the Bureau of Labor Statistics or U.S. Census Bureau) issue historical data revisions or benchmark corrections, Urblytica's data pipeline automatically re-indexes affected historical archives to maintain longitudinal trend accuracy.

U.S. affordability calculations incorporate federal income tax brackets, state-specific income tax rates, and local municipal tax variations to evaluate the true net tax drag on median household earnings across different states and cities.

Local county and municipal property tax millage rates are factored directly into the housing component of the cost-of-living index to reflect recurring annual tax burdens for homeowners.

The platform aggregates state sales taxes alongside county and city surtaxes to measure consumer basket purchasing power parity accurately across different retail jurisdictions.

Utility calculations apply regional seasonal consumption weightings, incorporating high summer air conditioning loads in southern states and heavy winter heating demands in northern states.

The index tracks average out-of-pocket healthcare expenses, routine outpatient visit costs, and regional health insurance premium benchmarks published by federal health agencies.

Educational metrics aggregate state standardized testing benchmarks, student-to-teacher ratios, high school graduation rates, and per-pupil expenditure data published by state departments of education.
Azibiz.com Live Listings

Businesses for Sale in Cincinnati

Explore active acquisition & franchise opportunities .

View all Ohio listings

Get quotes from local pros in Cincinnati

Tell us what you need and we’ll pass it to companies that serve your area. It’s free, and there’s no obligation.

Compare Cincinnati with any city

See how it stacks up on cost, income, and quality of life.

Start Comparing

Sponsored