Dozens of locals enjoy a sunny day at a city park in Cincinnati, Ohio, with a view of the city skyline in the background.

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Pros and Cons of Living in Cincinnati: Big Flavor, Big Personality, Big Decisions

Ohio

by Matt Lyons Posted on September 3, 2025

Is Cincinnati a good place to live? While there are both pros and cons of living in Cincinnati, this city, located on the Ohio River's banks, has experienced an annual population increase of roughly 11,000 residents since 2000 — and that steady growth isn’t expected to stop anytime soon. With a rich history, a constantly evolving arts scene to explore, and top-rated parks to check out, you’ll never run out of things to explore in The Queen City.

Planning a move to Cincinnati? Start by getting a free moving quote from PODS.

Living in Cincinnati provides residents with the perfect combination of community, history, and innovation that make it ideal for families looking to set down roots. While its affordability and vibrant downtown make it a great place for young professionals just getting their start. Want to learn more? Here are 16 of the biggest pros and cons we think you should know.

Fun Facts About Cincinnati

The Cincinnati Red Stockings were the first professional baseball team, established in 1869.
The city’s pork industry thrived so much at one point that it earned the nickname “Porkopolis.”
The Roebling Suspension Bridge actually served as a prototype for the original Brooklyn Bridge.
Oktoberfest Zinzinnati is the country’s largest Oktoberfest, and the second-largest in the world, right after Munich, Germany.
The city of Cincinnati is located near the Ohio River and is connected to the Licking River. This makes it one of the few places in the world where this waterway flows north.

Pros and Cons of Living in Cincinnati

What’s it like living in Cincinnati? We’re here to give you an overview of the 16 biggest pros and cons of living in one of the country’s most underrated and vibrant cities.

A colorful display of important figures from the past at Cincinnati’s National Underground Railroad Freedom Center.
You can learn about Cincinnati’s past and present at cultural institutions like the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center (pictured) and the Cincinnati Museum Center.
(Source: Visit Cincy via Facebook)

1. Pro: Cincinnati’s History Has Stories Worth Exploring

Cincinnati was one of the first major cities founded in the U.S. following the American Revolution. The area was a vital trade and transportation center, and it served as a launching point for the Underground Railroad. You can learn all about it, and more about the city’s past and present, at cultural institutions like the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center and the Cincinnati Museum Center.

Cincinnati also has a lot of impressive architecture. In fact, the Over-the-Rhine district is known for its Italianate architecture, and you’ll find many Art Deco structures — including the Hilton Netherland Plaza and Union Terminal.

2. Con: An Aging Infrastructure Adds Challenges to Life in Cincinnati

Cincinnati has a significant backlog of deferred maintenance, which it’s working to address through its Cincy on Track Initiative. This includes its water and sewer systems, bridges, roads, and more.

According to a report by WVXU, a significant portion of the sewer system in Cincinnati is over 100 years old. It’s collapsed in the past, causing a sinkhole, and it’s expected to happen again. The city of Cincinnati needs to invest a lot of money in order to address its aging infrastructure, and is working to secure funding through the Cincy On Track Initiative.

3. Pro: Low Cost of Living Helps Your Dollar Stretch Further in Cincinnati

The cost of living in Cincinnati, Ohio, is nearly 12 percent lower than the national average index of 100 and 5.6 percent higher than the state average of 82.7, coming in at 88.3. While the cost of living in Cincinnati might be higher than the state average, it’s pretty on par with other nearby metros, like Columbus, Indianapolis, and Louisville, where the cost of living scores are 91.4, 85.7, and 89.8, respectively.

Average home prices tell a similar story. You could buy a home for $251,200 in Cincinnati, versus $253,800 in Columbus. The average cost in Indianapolis is $233,800, while it sits at $255,000 in Louisville.

4. Con: Cincinnati’s Higher Taxes May Be Tough to Swallow

That low cost of living might be necessary to offset the city’s tax rates.

Cincinnati’s combined sales tax rate is 7.8 percent — comprised of 5.75 percent Ohio state sales tax, 1.25 percent Hamilton County sales tax, and a 0.80 percent special tax. The city itself doesn’t levy a sales tax, but it’s among the highest rates in Ohio. It is worth noting that it’s lower than rates in other major metros, including Chicago and Tacoma, where the tax rate is 10.25 percent and 10.3 percent, respectively.

The city’s property tax rate is similarly high, coming in at 2.38 percent, more than double the national median of 1.02 percent. The city has even launched a relief program to cover property tax debt for homeowners

Cincinnati’s historic Over-The-Rhine neighborhood, featuring homes built onto a hillside in an eclectic mix of architectural styles.
One of the best places to live in Cincinnati for young professionals is Over-the-Rhine, known for its vibrant atmosphere and historic charm.

5. Pro: Cincinnati’s Neighborhoods Offer Charm in Every Corner

Finding the right place to call home can make any commute worth all the extra time (even if you’re coming all the way from the Cincinnati suburbs). Some of the best Cincinnati neighborhoods have the most accessibility, while others are simply the perfect spot to settle down. Here are some of our favorites:

Hyde Park: Best for families, Hyde Park features a vibrant community, historic charm, and modern conveniences. It also has lots of housing options, including modern homes and custom-built ones, with access to top schools, cultural attractions, and green spaces. It’s also the safest neighborhood in the city, according to AreaVibes.
Over-the-Rhine (OTR): One of the best places to live in Cincinnati for young professionals is Over-the-Rhine. This area is known for its vibrant atmosphere and historic charm, plus a variety of bars and restaurants within easy reach (the neighborhood has a Walk Score of 94).
Downtown: Cincinnati's downtown area is full of life and offers a variety of entertainment and dining options. Its affordability, proximity to various places, and accessibility make it an easy choice.

6. Con: Cincinnati’s Crime Rates Can Be Worrisome

Unfortunately, Cincinnati’s crime rate is among the highest in the country, sitting at 50 per 1,000 residents. It’s safer than just three percent of other U.S. cities and two percent of other communities within Ohio. Some of the most dangerous neighborhoods within the city are Lower Price Hill, Winton Hills, and Carthage.

7. Pro: Cincinnati’s Arts and Culture Scene Keeps Creativity Thriving

In Cincinnati, art is everywhere. From the Art Deco landmarks of the city's historic district to the renowned art museums and murals, there is something for everyone.

One of the oldest art museums in the country is the Cincinnati Art Museum, which first opened its doors to the public in 1886. It features over 73,000 works of art, and free admission is offered for all regular exhibits. The Contemporary Arts Center is another major hotspot located in Downtown Cincinnati, and is a must-visit for anyone who enjoys modern architecture.

Cincinnati is also perfect for anyone who enjoys live music and the performing arts. Some of the city’s best venues include the Cincinnati Opera, Cincinnati Ballet, and the Aronoff Center for the Arts.

8. Con: Cincinnati’s Nightlife Isn’t Exactly Buzzing

Some areas, such as Over-the-Rhine and Downtown, offer lively entertainment, but a lot of the local activities cater more to families overall. You’re more likely to find jazz bars and local live shows than diverse events and unique spots to check out.

Overall, transplants (especially anyone from a major metro) may feel that Cincinnati's nightlife is less varied and exciting than in more prominent places. The area’s issue with reliable, fast, and frequent public transportation also makes it harder to access certain places.

A colorful and tasty-looking variety of dishes from Cincinnati’s Bridges Nepali Cuisine restaurant.
Cincy foodies enjoy tasty dishes from around the world, including Nepali delights at Bridges Nepali Cuisine (pictured).
(Source: Bridges Nepali Cuisine via Facebook)

9. Pro: Cincinnati Comes With a Diverse Food Scene, From Chili to International Eats

What you lose in nightlife, you can find in the city’s food scene. From a ton of German offerings to a variety of international cuisines and craft breweries, the region's food scene is heavily influenced by its history and diversity. A few local favorites include Bridges Nepali Cuisine and the Malaysian offerings at Sago.

The city holds a deep German heritage, evidenced by its numerous German bakeries and restaurants. One must-try is goetta — a Cincinnati staple sausage made with oats, beef, and pork.

Cincinnati chili is another city staple. It’s uniquely flavored with Mediterranean spices and usually served over hot dogs or spaghetti. You’ll find the usual chili toppings, though, like cheese, beans, and onions.

10. Con: Lack of Public Transportation Makes Having a Car in the City a Necessity

Due to its dispersed nature, Cincinnati is often considered a car-dependent area. The city’s transit system, SORTA, provides public transportation in Cincinnati, but it falls short of what's found in other major cities. The routes aren't very frequent or extensive, which makes it hard for people without cars to get around. The city also has a streetcar, but it only serves Downtown, as well as The Banks and Over-the-Rhine.

11. Pro: From Startups to Corporate Giants, Cincinnati Has Job Options for Everyone City a Necessity

A strong job market is one of the main benefits of living in Cincinnati. You’ll find great opportunities in sectors like logistics, technology, and manufacturing. Not to mention spots at Fortune 500 companies, like Kroger, Fifth Third Bank, Macy’s, Amazon, and Procter & Gamble.

The healthcare industry in the city is enough to hold its own. With major plays like UC Medical Center, Cincinnati Children's, and The Christ Hospital in the area, finding both work in these fields and top-notch healthcare is no worry you need to have in mind.

12. Con: Cincinnati’s Traffic Can Test Your Patience

In Cincinnati, commuters definitely feel the pain of daily traffic — especially in the city center. Although it isn't considered one of the worst cities in the nation, it is still one of the most affected areas. With no reliable public transit, the reliance on cars means that everyone is on the road during rush hour, and you’re likely to notice.

The city's river crossings and hilly terrain can also result in major bottlenecks, especially on Interstates 75, I-71, and I-275.

Local Cincinnati men compete in a barrel rolling contest during Oktoberfest Zinzinnati as hundreds of onlookers watch from the sidelines.
Get your fill of German bratwursts and brews at Oktoberfest Zinzinnati.
(Source: Visit Cincy via Facebook)

13. Pro: Cincinnati’s Festivals Offer Something for Everyone — and They’re a Big Part of the City’s Charm

Cincinnati has various cultural festivals that celebrate the diversity of its residents. One of these is the Juneteenth celebration, which features Brazilian dance and music, as well as the parade of flags (and lots of food trucks to check out).

Food is another beloved thing Cincinnati loves to celebrate. During the Panegyri Greek Festival, you can try out authentic Greek dishes and, of course, there’s always Oktoberfest Zinzinnati. For whatever else you're craving, Taste of Cincinnati has you covered with its offerings that span cultures from around the world.

Another one of the most popular festivals in Cincinnati is the Festival of Lights, which features a display that's made up of 5 million LED lights.

14. Con: Cincinnati’s Harsh Winters Can Make Getting Out and About a Challenge

Although winters in Cincinnati may not be as extreme as those in other areas, they can still be harsh, with significant snow, extremely low temperatures, and blizzards and ice storms.

In Cincinnati, the average yearly snowfall is around 23.3 inches. However, this figure can vary significantly from one year to the next. For instance, in January of 2025 alone, the area experienced a total of over 10 inches of snow.

In addition to snow, areas in Cincinnati can also experience freezing rain and sleet, which can cause power lines and trees to come down. Winter weather can also lead to widespread power outages, especially when the temperature drops significantly.

Locals take to the water for the Ohio River Paddlefest in Cincinnati, Ohio, on a beautiful summer day.

Don’t forget about the Ohio River and all the fun to be had out on the water!
(Source: Ohio River Paddlefest via Facebook)

15. Pro: Plenty of Outdoor Activities Make It Easy to Stay Active in Cincinnati

Cincinnati has plenty of parks and recreation areas that offer the perfect backdrop for evening walks in the park or weekend picnics and bike rides.

Some of the most popular parks include the Smale Riverfront Park, Eden Park, and Mount Airy Forest. The Ohio River Trail provides bike trails, walking paths, and the opportunity to explore the Ohio River. The Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Garden is another popular place to visit, boasting beautiful gardens.

16. Con: Allergy Season in Cincinnati Can Be Tough

High pollen counts are common in Cincinnati during spring and summer — and they’re not expected to stave off anytime soon. Allergy season forecasts in the Midwest are becoming longer and more intense, and the amount of tree pollen during the spring and grass pollen during the summer can get pretty intense. Of course, daily levels vary, but this is definitely something to consider if you’re an allergy sufferer.

Living in Cincinnati — FAQs

Q: What are the cons of living in Cincinnati?
A: Some of the major cons of living in Cincinnati include higher crime rates in certain areas, a higher sales tax than most of Ohio, and traffic congestion.

Q: Is Cincinnati a good place to live?
A: Even though there are pros and cons of living in Cincinnati, the city boasts an affordable cost of living, plus there’s always something new available to explore, making it a great place to live.

Q: What is so special about Cincinnati?
A: The city is special for lots of reasons, including the impressive architecture, rich history, diverse cuisine, and overall vibrant energy.

Q: What is a good salary for Cincinnati?
A: A single adult without kids should expect to make at least $36,800 annually after taxes while living in Cincinnati to cover basic living expenses, according to MIT’s Living Wage Calculator. In order to live comfortably (or make a “good” salary), SmartAsset recommends that 50 percent of your budget be allocated to cover basic needs, 30 percent to entertainment and fun, and 20 percent to pay down debt, invest, and save. By applying that rule to MIT’s living wage estimate, you’d need to make closer to $73,600 annually after taxes.

TL;DR Pros and Cons of Living in Cincinnati

Pros of Living in Cincinnati:

Cincinnati’s history has stories worth exploring
Low cost of living helps your dollar stretch further in Cincinnati
From startups to corporate giants, Cincinnati has job options for everyone
Cincinnati’s neighborhoods offer charm in every corner
Cincinnati’s arts and culture scene keeps creativity thriving
Cincinnati comes with a diverse food scene, from chili to international eats
Cincinnati’s festivals offer something for everyone — and they’re a big part of the city’s charm
Plenty of outdoor activities make it easy to stay active in Cincinnati

Cons of Living in Cincinnati:

An aging infrastructure adds challenges to life in Cincinnati
Cincinnati’s higher taxes may be tough to swallow
Cincinnati’s traffic can test your patience
Cincinnati’s crime rates can be worrisome
Cincinnati’s nightlife isn’t exactly buzzing
Lack of public transportation makes having a car in the city a necessity
Cincinnati’s harsh winters can make getting out and about a challenge
Allergy season in Cincinnati can be tough

A mother and her teenage son are tossing a basketball back and forth while taking a break from their move to Cincinnati. There’s a partially loaded PODS portable moving and storage container in the driveway behind them.
One month of storage is built into the cost of every PODS move, so you can take your time without feeling rushed.

Moving To Cincinnati With PODS

Despite all the pros and cons of living in Cincinnati, the benefits of living in Cincinnati certainly make it worth it. So why not get there with PODS? One month of storage is built into the cost of every move, which makes it easy for you to make your move as flexible as possible with a portable moving and storage container. Need help with the heavy lifting? You can be referred to local packing and loading services.

Visit PODS online today for a free local moving quote or call 877-350-7637 for your long-distance moving needs.

Editor’s note: For ease of reading, monthly rental prices were rounded to the nearest $25 and home values were rounded to the nearest $100.

(Source for image featured at top: Visit Cincy via Facebook)

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