In the heart of the Midwest, Ohio delivers a mix of big-city energy, historic neighborhoods, and scenic countryside. Columbus buzzes with creativity, a growing food scene, and a strong job market, while Cincinnati’s history and riverfront views make it a standout destination. Whether you’re drawn to the sports culture, the affordability, or the countless parks and outdoor spaces, Ohio has something for you. In this ApartmentGuide article, we’ll break down the pros and cons of living in Ohio so you can decide if it’s the right place to call home.
Renting in Ohio snapshot
| Population | 11,883,304 |
| Avg. studio rent | $724 per month |
| Avg. one-bedroom rent | $933 per month |
| Avg. two-bedroom rent | $1,109 per month |
| Most affordable cities to rent in Ohio | Canton, Dayton, Youngstown |
| Most walkable cities in Ohio | Lakewood, Norwood, Cleveland |
1. Pro: Your money will go far here
Living in Ohio means getting more for your money, especially in cities like Toledo and Dayton, where the cost of housing is a fraction of what you’d find in major coastal cities. With a median home price of just $115,750 in Toledo and one-bedroom apartments averaging $822, homeownership feels within reach, and rent doesn’t eat up your entire paycheck. Beyond housing, the cost of living expenses like groceries, utilities, and healthcare are also more affordable compared to the national average. That means Ohio residents can put their savings toward travel, dining, or simply enjoying life without constantly worrying about rising costs.
Not sure how much rent you can afford? Using tools like a rental calculator can provide you with insight.
2. Con: The weather keeps you guessing
Ohio’s weather is like a grab bag—you never know what you’re going to get. One day, you’ll wake up to sunshine and mild temperatures, and by the afternoon, you could be caught in a torrential downpour. Winters bring heavy snowfall and bone-chilling temperatures, while summers can be oppressively humid. Spring and fall offer some relief, but they also come with their own weather quirks, from tornado threats to sudden cold snaps. Cities like Cleveland and Cincinnati often experience extreme weather swings, with flash floods, ice storms, and heat waves all possible in the same year.
3. Pro: Game day is a way of life
Whether it’s Buckeye Nation shutting down Columbus on game day, die-hard Browns fans braving the cold in the Dawg Pound, or Cincinnati coming alive for a Bengals playoff run, Ohioans live and breathe their teams. Cleveland’s sports history is filled with heartbreak and redemption, while Cincinnati’s baseball culture runs deep with the Reds, the oldest professional baseball team in America. Beyond pro and college sports, Ohio hosts major events like the Cincinnati Masters tennis tournament and the Memorial Tournament, a highlight on the PGA Tour.
4. Con: Getting around can be a challenge
If you’re moving to Ohio without a car, be prepared for some frustration. Outside of larger cities like Columbus and Cleveland, public transportation is limited, and even in transit-friendly areas like Lakewood, a transit score of 41 means your options are slim. While some cities have bus systems, they don’t always run frequently or connect easily between neighborhoods. In smaller towns and suburbs, ride-sharing and biking can help, but having a car is almost a necessity if you want to get around efficiently.
5. Pro: Solid place to learn
Education is a strong suit in Ohio, with opportunities at every level. The state is home to universities like Ohio State University, Case Western Reserve University, and Miami University, offering top-tier programs in engineering, medicine, business, and more. Beyond traditional education, Ohio has a variety of trade schools, community colleges, and specialized training programs that help students build careers in healthcare, manufacturing, and technology.
6. Con: Aging roads and bridges need some TLC
Ohio’s roads tell a story, and unfortunately, it’s not always a smooth one. Potholes, crumbling bridges, and outdated public utilities have made infrastructure a growing concern across the state. If you drive often, expect to deal with construction zones as cities work to repair aging highways and streets. Public transit isn’t much better, with limited options in many areas and outdated systems struggling to keep up with demand.
7. Pro: Plenty of ways to get outside
Ohio might not have mountains or an ocean, but it makes up for it with a variety of outdoor activities. Cuyahoga Valley National Park offers stunning hiking trails, waterfalls, and wildlife, while Lake Erie provides endless opportunities for boating, fishing, and beach days. The Hocking Hills region is a hidden gem, with caves, rock formations, and scenic overlooks that feel worlds away from city life. Even urban areas like Columbus have extensive park systems, with biking trails, sports fields, and green spaces perfect for a weekend adventure.
8. Con: Summers can get sticky
When Ohio’s summer heat kicks in, the humidity follows close behind. The thick, muggy air can make even a short walk feel like a workout, and without a good breeze, the heat can be downright oppressive. High humidity levels can also lead to unexpected pop-up storms, leaving you drenched if you’re caught outside. Many residents rely on air conditioning to get through the summer, and outdoor events often come with a side of sweat. While the warm weather is great for lake days and barbecues, be prepared for those sticky afternoons when stepping outside feels like walking into a steam room.
9. Pro: Road trips are a breeze here
One of Ohio’s biggest perks is its location. Sitting in the heart of the Midwest, the state is a prime spot for road trips and weekend getaways. Columbus and Cincinnati are within a few hours’ drive of major cities like Chicago, Detroit, and Pittsburgh, making it easy to explore without booking a flight. Whether you’re craving big-city excitement, a beach escape to Lake Erie, or a nature retreat in the Appalachian foothills, Ohio’s central location makes travel simple and convenient.
10. Con: Pollution is a real concern
Ohio has a history of industrial activity, and while manufacturing has fueled the economy, it has also led to environmental challenges. Air pollution can be a problem in urban areas, especially near factories and power plants. Water quality is another major concern, with agricultural runoff contributing to algae blooms in Lake Erie and contamination issues in the Ohio River.
11. Pro: History around every corner
12. Con: Losing talent to other states
Many graduates and skilled workers leave the state for better job opportunities, warmer climates, or cities with a more exciting cultural scene. The so-called “brain drain” has affected industries ranging from tech to healthcare, making it harder for some businesses to find and retain top talent. While cities like Columbus are growing and attracting more young professionals, Ohio still has work to do in keeping its best and brightest from heading elsewhere.
Methodology : The population data is from the United States Census Bureau, walkable cities are from Walk Score, and rental data is from ApartmentGuide.
