The 12 Best Cincinnati Suburbs for a Peaceful Life Outside the City

The residents of Cincinnati have a deeply rooted love for this city. Its diverse array of attractions, historic architecture, world-renowned eateries, and the unique art district contribute to making it a great place to live. And, while Cincinnati’s neighborhoods have their appeal, the Cincinnati suburbs offer residents something different — a tranquil and charming vibe just outside the city limits. In this article, we’ll cover the 12 best Cincinnati suburbs, with a close look at home values, average rents, and what each suburb is best for. But first, a little bit about Cincinnati.

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Living in Cincinnati means having access to a diverse and robust job market with positions in sectors like healthcare, finance, manufacturing, and education. The region is home to numerous prominent companies, including Kroger, Fifth Third Bank, and Procter & Gamble. Cincinnati is also known as a great place to raise a family with its excellent schools and kid-friendly establishments, such as the Newport Aquarium, the Cincinnati Zoo, and the Cincinnati Children's Museum. 

Living in one of the best Cincinnati suburbs allows you to enjoy all that Cincinnati has to offer and then come home to a quiet suburban oasis each night. 

Cincinnati at a Glance

• Cincinnati’s population sits just under 311,100.
• Families, students, and young professionals can all find something they enjoy about life in Cincinnati.
• The average home value in Cincinnati city is $250,200, compared to $239,100 in the state and $367,700 nationally.
• The average rent for a one-bedroom in Cincinnati is $1,550, compared to $1,300 in the state, and $1,725 nationally.
• Cincinnati is great for outdoor activities, culture, unique food, eclectic neighborhoods, job opportunities, local events, and so much more!

12 Best Cincinnati Suburbs

Cincinnati’s suburbs play an integral part in keeping the city what it is — a charming place filled with delectable eateries, cultural amenities, entertainment for miles, and plenty of outdoor areas to explore. What are the best Cincinnati suburbs, though? If you’re a local, you probably know the lay of the land, but if you’re moving from farther away, then you have to trust outside sources. That’s why our guide is here to help you figure it all out.

Q: Where are the suburbs of Cincinnati? A: Cincinnati’s suburbs are most notably north of the metro, but you’ll find great areas to live, no matter what direction you’re traveling.

Featuring a flourishing business district and refined suburban settings, it’s no surprise Blue Ash is the no. 1 best place to live in Ohio.
(Source: Oyler Hines via Facebook)

1. Blue Ash, OH

• Average rent (one-bedroom): $1,725
• Average home value: $447,800
• Great for: Young professionals, families, job opportunities, schools, outdoor recreation
• Commute to Downtown Cincinnati: 20 minutes

Located on Cincinnati's northeast side, Blue Ash is a flourishing business district and city with refined suburban settings — plus, it’s Niche’s pick for the No. 1 best place to live in Ohio. It is also home to a variety of well-known organizations, making it one of the best Cincinnati suburbs for young professionals. Some of the area's major employers include Kroger, Ethicon, Integrity Express Logistics, Charter Communications, and Belcan Engineering Services. 

The Sycamore Community School District is ranked top five in the state, and it’s home to some of the state’s best schools, including Blue Ash Elementary and both Sycamore High and Junior High Schools.

The city's primary outdoor recreation center is Summit Park, which features various amenities, including a dog park, a fishing pond, and an observation tower. The Blue Ash Recreation Center, on the other hand, has an outdoor pool and water slides if you’d rather take a swim. 

Q: What is the best area to live around Cincinnati? A: Blue Ash is our pick for the No. 1 best suburb to live in Cincinnati. Zooming out, the Eastside is home to some of the area’s most historic and iconic neighborhoods.

2. Mason, OH

• Average rent (one-bedroom): $1,650
• Average home value: $506,000
• Great for: Families, young professionals, strong community spirit, outdoor recreation, local events
• Commute to Downtown Cincinnati: 30 minutes

Ranked as the No. 1 best place to live in Warren County by Niche, Mason, Ohio, has a mix of community spirit and suburban charm that appeals to people of all ages. Its growing population has created a vibrant atmosphere that's well known for its green spaces and recreation areas — local favorite parks include Mason Municipal Park and Sycamore Park with their plethora of trails, fields, playgrounds, and open spaces to enjoy.

Aside from the local outdoor hotspots, residents of Mason have plenty to keep them busy throughout the year. The summer concert series held at the Mason Community Center is a popular event, in particular, capable of entertaining the entire family.

3. Beckett Ridge, OH

• Average rent (one-bedroom): $1,750
• Average home value: $302,000
• Great for: Young professionals, families, local major attractions, shopping, dining
• Commute to Downtown Cincinnati: 30 minutes

Moving to the No. 1 best place to live in Butler County means great schools, great restaurants, and even better attractions to enjoy. Not only are there outdoor spaces to enjoy — like Beckett Park and Beckett Trail — but you’re also just minutes from major attractions, including Main Event Entertainment Center and Hamilton Flea Market. There are plenty of things to do directly in the community, however, including shopping at the Beckett Commons Shopping Center.

You’re also close to the area’s delectable dining scene, with a variety of unique restaurants serving up high-quality cuisines. Whether you’re in the mood for vegan options at Aladdin’s Eatery or the impressive brews and casual eats at Cozy’s Cafe & Pub, you’ll have it all within easy reach. 

Fort Thomas is one of the biggest suburbs in the region, located just five miles from Cincinnati.
(Source: Oyler Hines via Facebook)

4. Fort Thomas, KY

• Average rent (one-bedroom): $1,300
• Average home value: $345,900
• Great for: Families, young professionals, local events, beautiful homes
• Commute to Downtown Cincinnati: 15 minutes

Fort Thomas — located in Campbell County, Kentucky — is one of the biggest suburbs in the region and is ranked the second-best place to live in the state (of Kentucky)! It’s also been dubbed the "city of beautiful homes" by the Advisory Council for Historic Preservation. The best part? It’s situated just five miles from Cincinnati.

The city's popularity can be attributed to its welcoming people and flourishing local businesses. The Fort Thomas Farmers Market is held from April through December in Tower Park and features various types of fruits, vegetables, and other products. Another local festival is the Merchants and Music Festival, which features local and national artists.

5. Indian Hill, OH

• Average rent (one-bedroom): $1,950
• Average home value: $1.6M
• Great for: Retirees, large homes, rural atmosphere, outdoor activities, clubs
• Commute to Downtown Cincinnati: 25 minutes

Located in Hamilton County, Indian Hill is one of the most expensive Cincinnati suburbs, with large homes on expansive lots and plenty of sights to see. Ranked the No. 1 place to retire in Ohio, there are plenty of ways to keep busy in this community. 

Thanks to the Indian Hill Club and the Camargo Club, residents can enjoy staying active through sports like golf and tennis and engage with others in the community. If you’re on the hunt for sights to see or places to take the grandkids, check out the Hyde Park Mushroom House or Wonderland Playground.

Q: What is the affluent suburb of Cincinnati? A: With an average home value of over $1.5 million, Indian Hill is considered one of the most affluent suburbs of Cincinnati.

6. Mariemont, OH

• Average rent (one-bedroom): $1,425
• Average home value: $551,200
• Great for: Families, schools, safety, outdoor activities, cultural activities
• Commute to Downtown Cincinnati: 20 minutes

The Village of Mariemont is a charming community located just minutes away from downtown Cincinnati. Mariemont’s village square is highly walkable, and this picturesque community offers just about everything from shopping and entertainment to cute cafes and outdoor recreation.Whether it’s watching a performance by the Mariemont Players, discovering innovative art at The Barn, or hiking on a nice day at the South 80 Hiking and Biking trail, Mariemont is a vibrant place to live with a lot of ways to stay entertained. 

As both the No. 1 best place to raise a family in Cincinnati and the No. 1 best place to raise a family in the state of Ohio according to Niche, families considering a move to Cincinnati should definitely keep Mariemont in mind. The area’s school district has been ranked best in the state by Niche.

Compared to other cities in Ohio and the U.S., Mariemont is one of the safest suburbs of Cincinnati to settle down in. Overall, the crime rate in Mariemont is 91 percent lower than the national average, with an almost non-existent violent crime rate. 

The small suburb of Madeira features housing styles that range from older Colonial to modern Craftsman.
(Source: Oyler Hines via Facebook)

7. Madeira, OH

• Average rent (one-bedroom): $1,450
• Average home value: $526,100
• Great for: Families, young professionals, housing variety, outdoor recreation, dining
• Commute to Downtown Cincinnati: 20 minutes

The small suburb of Madeira has an active community with housing styles that range from older Colonial-style to modern Craftsman-style.

One of the town's parks is Sellman Park, which is located behind Madeira Middle School. It features soccer fields, playground equipment, and tennis courts. McDonald Commons Park, which spans 17 acres, is a larger area for recreation that features three soccer fields and three baseball diamonds.

In addition to being a great place to live, dining is also something that Madeira knows how to do well. One of the town's most popular restaurants is A Tavola, with its pizza and pasta options. Madeira Café is a popular neighborhood establishment serving up breakfast and lunch dishes.

Montgomery residents enjoy events and festivals throughout the year in this charming Cincinnati suburb.
(Source: Oyler Hines via Facebook)

10. Montgomery, OH

• Average rent (one-bedroom): $1,950
• Average home value: $673,600
• Great for: Families, young professionals, retirees, local events, beautiful outdoors, historic architecture
• Commute to Downtown Cincinnati: 20 minutes

As one of the best Cincinnati suburbs, Montgomery is located in the northern section of any Cincinnati suburbs map and upholds a charm like no other. Throughout the year, there are a variety of events and activities happening, including cultural celebrations, festivals, and community gatherings.

The Montgomery Farmers Market is held every Saturday morning in May through October from 9 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. It's a great opportunity for residents to support local artisans and farmers while also enjoying the community's atmosphere.

The public is also invited to visit Swaim Park during the garden and tree tour. There, they can enjoy a variety of plants and flowers, as well as a pollinator garden. During this event, artists from Cincinnati's Brush & Palette create art in the gardens.

Q: What are the best northern suburbs of Cincinnati? A: Blue Ash, Mason, and Montgomery are among the most highly-rated northern suburbs of Cincinnati.

11. Wyoming, OH

• Average rent (one-bedroom): $850
• Average home value: $485,200
• Great for: Families, young professionals, retirees, history, arts, outdoors
• Commute to Downtown Cincinnati: 20 minutes

The northern suburb of Wyoming is located in Mill Creek Valley, which is accessible from the Ohio River. With a wide variety of home styles and plenty of options available, this suburb has a long, prominent history within the community. The Historic District is even officially recognized by the National Register of Historic Places.

'The district serves as home to the Wyoming Fine Arts Center, which is a popular attraction due to its beautifully restored 1850s home that used to be a Masonic lodge. Stearns Woods Nature Preserve is another prominent historical landmark of the community, where residents can stroll and take the kids to let out some energy and enjoy the local sights.

12. Wilder, KY

• Average rent (one-bedroom): $1,075
• Average home value: $196,000
• Great for: Families, young professionals, retirees, outdoors, shopping, local events
• Commute to Downtown Cincinnati: 15 minutes

Wilder is one of the small suburbs of Cincinnati in Kentucky with a strong sense of its own history and affordable homes. In fact, it’s one of the best places to purchase a home in the state. It's also home to the Daniel Boone National Forest, where residents enjoy outdoor recreation like camping and hiking. Downtown Wilder is known for its eclectic charm and variety of shops and restaurants.

The local Crestview Hills Town Center is the center of Northern Kentucky community culture — and it’s always offering something new. From beauty and self-care to apparel and shoes, you’ll find what you need. Along with plenty of top-notch dining and local events, including car shows and farmers markets.

Move to the Cincinnati Suburbs With PODS

When you’re ready to make your move to one of the best Cincinnati suburbs, make it flexible with PODS. Have a portable moving and storage container delivered to your home for convenient loading right in your driveway. If you need any help, PODS can refer you to local packing and loading services for the tedious packing or the heavy lifting! Once you’re ready, your container will be picked up and transported to your new home in one of the best Cincinnati suburbs. The best part? One month of storage is built into the cost of every PODS move, so you don’t have to feel rushed.

Editor’s note: Average and median rent prices were obtained from RentCafe and Zumper; average home values were obtained from Zillow; and median home sale prices were obtained from Redfin. For ease of reading, monthly rental prices were rounded to the nearest $25 and home values were rounded to the nearest $100.