Cincinnati is a collection of many amazing neighborhoods, and all are unique and feature something (or a lot of things) that would make you want to call it home. This list features just ten neighborhoods that offer great housing options (some more affordable than others) walkability, and a close-knit community full of neighbors that love where they live. Of course, there are more than just ten great places to live in Cincinnati. A lot more.
Over-the-Rhine is the place to be these days, Ever since it began transforming into a vibrant neighborhood with restored apartments and condos that are both modern and historic, it has become one of the hottest places to live for young professionals and families. There are still up-and-coming areas in Over-the-Rhine, including the Pendleton area, where you can find brownstones at reasonable prices. Wherever you live in Over-the-Rhine, you'll have plenty of options when it comes to life after dark.
The Clifton Gaslight area filled with gorgeous Tudor style and Victorian homes on gaslight lined streets. With its proximity to several hospitals as well as the University of Cincinnati, the neighborhood attracts a diverse group of residents. It's a sort of cultural melting pot, and a very open-minded part of town. The Gaslight's main drag is Ludlow Avenue, featured above, that offers a great array of restaurants, local bars, and funky shops.
One of the greatest features of Mount Lookout is its central location to Hyde Park and other east side neighborhoods and downtown Cincinnati. Gorgeous homes are the norm in Mount Lookout, with some of the most impressive up by Ault Park. Mount Lookout Square features great coffeehouse and bars, as well as a couple well-known Cincinnati restaurants like Zip's Cafe.
Hyde Park, on Cincinnati's east side, tends to attract young professionals and families, thanks to it's tree lined streets and homes that are, for the most part, family sized. Closer to Hyde Park Square, you'll find great condos and apartments, as well as some excellent restaurants, fitness studios, and drink spots. This is an active part of the city. so you're likely to see walkers, joggers, and a lot of yoga mats when you check it out.
One of the most diverse neighborhoods in the city, some Cincinnatians joke that Norwood's nickname is "Hyde Park near" for the way it is advertised sometimes. Yes, it's close to ol' HP, but it's also close to Avondale, Evanston, and Xavier University. Norwood may be one of the only neighborhoods where you can stand on your porch and see young professionals, elderly residents who have lived there for decades, and a variety of ethnic groups - all on one street. Housing is reasonable in Norwood, and it's also incredibly central to all highways.
Oakley - also Hyde Park near - is another east side neighborhood that is a great option for single people, thanks to its plethora of apartment options - as well as for families who are looking for reasonably priced housing that's near a lot of shops and nightlife. You've got your pick of about four awesome grocery stores if you're an Oakley resident, and you're in close proximity to one of the city's best ice cream shops.
If you're wondering what Northside is all about, just consider their 4th of July Parade that recently featured dogs riding skateboards and women dancing with lawn chairs. To say Northside is eclectic would be an understatement - it's more a community that advocates individualism and self-expression, as evidenced in the shops and restaurants that line Hamilton Avenue. Tip: Check out Spring Grove Village, Winton Terrace, and College Hill, too. These nearby neighborhoods are experiencing lots growth and can be slightly more affordable than Northside.
One of Cincinnati's oldest and most central neighborhoods, East Walnut Hills features all sorts of renovated Victorian mansions that have been converted into apartments and condos. The business district near Woodburn Avenue is growing and today features some great restaurants and specialty cocktail bars, making East Walnut Hills and even more desirable place to live. One of the most diverse neighborhoods in the city, it's also about eight minutes by car to downtown, and walking distance to Eden Park and Mount Adams (but wear walking shoes if you're going that far).
Prospect Hill is a tiny neighborhood right outside Over-the-Rhine that features rows of houses on hilly streets. It's by far one of the most picturesque places in Cincinnati and makes you think of Europe and San Francisco - two locations Prospect Hill emulates. As you can imagine, homes on Prospect Hill usually come with some amazing views. You can find good deals on apartments here - likely because parking is at a premium. Some side streets still offer some fixer uppers, but if you purchased a home here that needed no updates it would still be a great investment - because you wouldn't want to ever leave.
Finally... some love for Cincinnati's west side. This is one of the most family-oriented part of the city, and features many neighborhoods with families who have lived there for generations. The west side is laid back, unpretentious, and friendly - no matter what part of it you're in. Delhi Township features gorgeous rolling hills reminiscent of the German countryside, while Westwood offers beautiful homes at affordable prices.
You can’t go wrong anywhere you live in Cincinnati. Why? Because it’s full of friendly people who love their community. No matter if you live in a place mentioned here on this list or another, whether it’s Mount Healthy or Mount Adams, you’re surrounded by great neighbors.
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