Guest Post by: Abigail Golder
Cincinnati, the 3rd largest city in Ohio is located directly across the river from Covington, Ky. and is known for its incredible chili, diehard baseball and basketball fans, huge Oktoberfest celebration and sloping riverfront skyline. As one of the lesser known cities in the United States, Cincinnati still espouses itself to be affordable and friendly to newcomers in ways that more established cities simply aren’t. This makes it a great choice for folks looking to put down roots in a new area without the financial headache or cold shoulder of the locals. It might not be the header of conversations like New York or Chicago, but still has plenty to offer for those looking for good beer, great architecture and amazing people.
Climate of Cincinnati
Cincinnati has four full seasons. During the summertime, heat swells to an average 87 degrees Fahrenheit, while the winter highs hover between the low 40s and mid 50s. Unlike many other places in the Midwest, Cincinnati is located inside of a valley, trapping weather inside. When it’s hot it feels hot for days and when it snows, it stays on the ground long enough to get out and enjoy it. Mild weather in between gives Cincinnatians plenty of options for outdoor activities.
Public Schools in Cincinnati
The Cincinnati Public School System allows for open enrollment. This means students are welcome to attend a school outside of their district if space is available. This is great for families moving to the area, and makes the difficult decision of enrolling your child into school easier because you don’t have to find housing within the same district line as your ideal school. The public school system in Cincinnati also offers college prep courses, post-secondary enrollment options and offers scholarships to families with students who would benefit from one-on-one mentorship. There are also plenty of private school options, as Hamilton County ranks #2 in the country (among the 100 largest counties in the nation) in number of private school attendees.
Cost of Living in Cincinnati
The cost of living in Cincinnati is approximately 8% lower than the national average. Housing is especially cheap for residents, coming in at 25% below the national average. This said, home values are rising, which is a good thing for people thinking about buying a home here. The median list price for a Cincinnati home is about $159,500, much less than the national median, which is about $253,500. It’s easy to see why people are considering buying in Cincinnati and with that market rising, there’s no better time to buy. Other living costs like groceries, health care and utilities are also below the national average.
Attractions in Cincinnati
There’s no end to the list of things to do in Cincinnati. Residents would recommend an afternoon spent cheering on the Bengals at the Paul Brown stadium. The gigantic riverfront development has 65,535 seats on three levels, including 7,600 club seats and 114 private suites. If football isn’t your scene, we also boast the first all-professional baseball team. To live in Cincinnati is to live for baseball season and trips to the Great American Ballpark on The Banks of the Ohio River. Spending time in Cincinnati is easy and enjoyable, whether you decide to pet a shark at the Newport Aquarium, light something on fire at the Museum Center at Union Terminal, strap yourself in and fly over the crowd at King’s Island, or enjoy a night of dancing and a glass of wine at the Riverbend Music Center, you’ll never get bored exploring the city. If you’re looking for attractions more off-the-beaten-path, you can explore the city’s abandoned subway system, take a stroll around the gorgeous Spring Grove cemetery, or go check out the Capitoline Wolf statue, gifted to the city by an Italian dictator in the1930s. If you’re feeling even more courageous, go try one of the 41 local breweries, after taking a walk along the Brewing Heritage Trail.
Job Prospects
While it’s ideal to have a job before making a move, with Cincinnati having a slightly below average unemployment rate compared to the rest of the United States, Cincinnati has plenty to offer if you don’t. The city’s traditional strength lies in advanced manufacturing and engineering, but has recently expanded to include areas such energy, bio-health, consumer products, brand development and information technology. Known worldwide for Procter and Gamble soap products and the Kroger grocery chain, the city makes for an easier job search than some of its larger counterparts.
Outdoor Adventures near Cincinnati
Over the weekend, pack up the car and drive about an hour and a half east of Cincinnati for a breathe of fresh air. The magnificent, 16,000-acre wildlife reserve, known for its eleven unique preserves including: Ohio Brush Creek, Cedar Falls, The Wilderness, Buzzardroost Rock, Red Rock, Lynx Prairie, Cave Hollow, Hanging Prairie, Germany Hill Prairie, Abner Hollow and the Rieveschl Preserves, makes for a perfect weekend trip to get away from bustling city life. The area is speckled with hiking trails, nature walks, exhibits, and educational resources for people hoping to learn more about Appalachia near the ‘edge of Appalachia’ itself.
Whether you’re being transferred for work or just ready to move some place new, Cincinnati has plenty to offer for young professionals and families alike. The low cost of living will allow for a little extra money in your pocket to enjoy all of the activities and attractions the city has to offer. One thing is certain; Cincinnati has plenty to explore and you’re sure to find a hidden gem around every corner.
This Saturday, August 26th, from 11am until 9pm, Tender Mercies is continuing its newest tradition, with the 5th Annual Taste of OTR, featuring tastings every 60 minutes, along with local brews and local bands! The event will benefit over 150 adults with mental illness, who are recovering from the trauma of homelessness.
