Ohio, the seventh most populous state in America, is home to about 12 million residents who enjoy a unique blend of small towns, mid-sized cities, and major metropolitan hubs. The state’s strong sense of community and affordability make it a popular choice for families, young professionals, and retirees alike. Despite many Midwestern states losing population over the decades, Ohio remains steady, thanks to its balanced cost of living, diverse cities, and solid quality of life.

If you’re thinking about moving to Ohio, you’re probably wondering which city might be the best fit: Columbus, Cleveland, or Cincinnati. Let’s break down what you need to know about living in these cities—and the state overall—to help you make an informed choice.

Ohio’s Housing Market and Affordability

Ohio offers some of the most affordable housing options in the country. The median home price across the state is just over $235,000, while the median household income is about $62,000. This balance makes Ohio especially attractive for first-time homebuyers and families looking to stretch their budgets.

That said, property taxes can be higher than what you might expect, with an average effective property tax rate of 1.4%—higher than the national average of about 1%. The range varies widely: some counties have property taxes as low as 0.86%, while others go up to 2.29%, more than double the average. On the bright side, Ohio offers some of the most affordable income taxes in the nation, with the highest bracket below 4%. The state sales tax averages 7.4%, which is close to the national norm.

Safety and Community Spirit

Safety is a key concern for anyone relocating, and Ohio generally scores well in this area. The violent crime rate is roughly 19% below the national average, while property crime is just slightly above it by about 2%. Many Ohio communities are known for their strong sense of pride and identity, rooted in a hardworking, blue-collar ethos. Ohioans often identify deeply with their state — much like residents of New York, Texas, or California — but with a unique Midwestern twist emphasizing toughness and community.

While Ohio’s diversity isn’t as pronounced as some other states — it is about 80% White, 12% Black, 3.5% Hispanic, 2% Asian, and smaller percentages of other races — its residents share a collective pride in being “Ohans.” Politically, Ohio is often called a “bellwether” state, historically voting for the winning presidential candidate in most elections, though recently it has leaned Republican.

Weather: Four Seasons of Ohio

Ohioans experience all four seasons, with a climate that’s balanced but can be extreme at times. Winters are cold, with average lows around 20°F in January, and about 28 inches of snow annually—right at the national average. Summers get humid, with July highs averaging 84°F. The state enjoys about 173 days of sunshine per year, which is roughly a month less than the national average.

Tornadoes occasionally occur, so when choosing a region to live in Ohio, it’s smart to check local weather risks. Despite some perceptions, Ohio offers plenty of variety in outdoor activities and natural beauty across its diverse landscape.

Entertainment and Education

Ohio is far from boring. The state has a deep passion for sports, especially football, where the Ohio State Buckeyes bring together fans statewide like few teams can. Ohio also hosts multiple professional sports teams including baseball, basketball, and football franchises.

Education is another strong point, with numerous universities spread across the state, making Ohio an educational hub that encourages many young people to stay after graduation.

City Highlights: Columbus, Cleveland, and Cincinnati

Cleveland

Cleveland sits in northeastern Ohio, geographically closer to Pittsburgh, Buffalo, and Detroit than Cincinnati. It’s the largest metro area in the state but also the most affordable, with a median home price around $115,000 as of 2023. Cleveland experiences harsher winters, often getting twice as much snow as other Ohio cities. Unfortunately, the city also faces higher crime rates compared to state averages.

Despite these challenges, Cleveland offers a rich cultural scene, sports, and proximity to other major cities. It leans politically left and has many urban amenities for those who enjoy city living.

Columbus

Columbus, Ohio’s capital, is centrally located and the largest city in the state. Many consider it the nicest big city in the Midwest due to its blend of opportunity, safety, and livability. Median home prices are higher here at about $280,000, but median household incomes are nearly double those in Cleveland. The city’s crime rate is lower than many other Midwestern metro areas, making it attractive for families and young professionals alike.

Columbus is home to multiple universities and a growing job market. Its central location makes it an excellent base for exploring the rest of Ohio.

Cincinnati

Cincinnati strikes a middle ground. Its median home prices, income, and cost of living fall between Columbus and Cleveland, with a lower crime rate than Cleveland and less snow than both cities. Cincinnati boasts a strong arts scene, great festivals, and a family-friendly vibe, making it popular among those who want a city atmosphere without the size and cost of Columbus.

Small Towns and Rural Living in Ohio

Beyond the big cities, Ohio is dotted with many small towns known for their community spirit, safety, and affordability. If you prefer quiet living and a slower pace, towns around Dayton, Toledo, or in the countryside might be perfect. Politically, these areas tend to lean conservative and offer tight-knit communities that value tradition and neighborliness.

Why Choose Dow Moving for Your Ohio Move?

Moving can be overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. Whether you’re relocating to Columbus, Cleveland, Cincinnati, Dayton, or one of Ohio’s charming small towns, Dow Moving is here to help. Our experienced team knows the Dayton area and all of Ohio inside and out. We provide trusted, professional moving services that take the stress out of your move and keep your belongings safe.

Ready to make your Ohio move seamless? Contact Dow Moving today for a free quote and personalized moving plan!

Helpful Tips

  • Make an appointment online at the Ohio BMV to save time, especially for busy offices.

  • Visit the official Ohio BMV website at bmv.ohio.gov for forms, fee details, and to schedule appointments.

  • Be prepared to pay sales tax when transferring an out-of-state title, unless exempt.

  • If you buy a vehicle with financing, your lender may handle part of the registration/title process.

Final Thoughts

Registering and titling your vehicle in Ohio is a straightforward process if you have all the necessary documents and follow the state requirements. Don’t delay your title transfer after moving — doing so within 30 days keeps you compliant and avoids penalties.

FAQs Recap

Q: Do I need to transfer my car title when I move to Ohio?
A: Yes, within 30 days of becoming a resident.

Q: What documents do I need to register my car in Ohio?
A: Out-of-state title, Ohio Title Application, proof of residency, VIN inspection, insurance, and payment.

Q: What is the penalty for not transferring title within 30 days?
A: Late fees, fines, and possible legal complications.

Q: Do I need to get my car inspected before registration?
A: Yes, a VIN inspection is required.