Explore the Best Places to Live in Ohio in 2025

From the excitement of Columbus to the safe streets of Upper Arlington, Ohio’s got something for every type of student. Whether you like food, nature, music, or focusing on your future career, Ohio’s got what you need without breaking the bank.

You may be surprised to know that Columbus has over 50 festivals a year, and the surrounding area has over 200 parks and natural areas. With over 120 colleges and universities in Ohio, you’re never far from other students, big sports games and people who can help your career.

Ready to find out which Ohio city is for you! Let’s explore the best places to live in Ohio that combine student-friendly atmospheres with great amenities and safety.

10 Best Places To Live In Ohio

Here are the 10 best places to live in Ohio you can check out:

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1. Columbus

Total Population: 914,262
Average Commute: 20 min
Median Monthly Rent: USD 999

Did you know Columbus is one of the fastest-growing cities for young professionals? As Ohio’s capital, it’s not just the government that drives this city – it’s innovation and education! The city of Columbus houses Ohio State University, the best university for MHA in the USA.

The Short North Arts District buzzes with gallery hops on the first Saturday of each month, while German Village charms with brick streets and European bakeries. For coffee lovers, the city boasts over 300 independent coffee shops – perfect for study sessions!

Tech giants like IBM and Facebook have offices in the Columbus Ohio area, offering amazing internship opportunities. The city’s 230+ miles of biking trails make getting around easy and affordable – a huge plus for car-free students.

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2. Upper Arlington

Total Population: 35,743
Average Commute: 20 min
Median Monthly Rent: USD 1,000

Just a few minutes away from OSU, Upper Arlington offers a peaceful retreat from campus chaos. This upscale suburb consistently ranks among the best places to live in Ohio for its incredible park system and top-notch amenities.

Love outdoor study sessions? Upper Arlington features the stunning Thompson Park with free Wi-Fi throughout. The community hosts “UA Talks” – TED-style lectures from local experts, including university professors, perfect for expanding your knowledge beyond the classroom.

Students share housing here to make it affordable, with many historic homes converted to multi-bedroom rentals. The area’s 24-hour grocery stores and late-night cafés cater specifically to student schedules.

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3. Hilliard

Total Population: 37,054
Average Commute: 22 min
Median Monthly Rent: USD 1,170

Ever wanted your own space without the crazy price tag? Hilliard delivers! This growing suburb west of Columbus offers larger apartments and shared houses at reasonable rates.
What makes Hilliard special? It's First Responders Park honors 9/11 heroes, while the city’s Historical Village showcases restored 19th-century buildings. The DORA (Designated Outdoor Refreshment Area) lets you enjoy drinks outside while exploring Old Hilliard’s shops – a unique perk for social butterflies.

Tech-savvy students appreciate Hilliard’s city-wide free Wi-Fi services in public spaces. The suburb’s Express Library offers 24/7 material pickup with your library card – perfect for late-night research emergencies!

4. Westerville

Total Population: 38,779
Average Commute: 20 min
Median Monthly Rent: USD 1,136

Westerville earned the nickname “Dry Capital of the World” during Prohibition, but now boasts one of the highest concentrations of coffee shops in Ohio. Home to Otterbein University, this charming suburb ranks among the best places to live in Ohio.

Westerville’s Anti-Saloon League Museum offers a quirky glimpse into America’s temperance movement. The city’s 41 parks include the amazing Inniswood Metro Gardens – a 123-acre botanical paradise perfect for de-stressing after exams.

As one of the safest cities in Ohio, Westerville’s crime rates sit 40% below the national average. The city’s innovative ChipsBooks program gives residents free digital access to bestsellers – a huge plus for busy students on a budget.

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5. Toledo

Total Population: 270,717
Average Commute: 18 min
Median Monthly Rent: USD 686

Want big-city amenities without the price tag? Toledo delivers! With the lowest average rent on our list at just USD 686, Toledo student accommodations are the most valued by students and young professionals.

The Glass City earned its nickname from its glass-making history, which you can explore at the stunning Toledo Museum of Art Glass Pavilion – completely free to enter! Toledo’s Warehouse District features converted industrial spaces now housing trendy lofts popular with students.

Tony Packo’s Cafe, made famous on MAS*H, displays hot dog buns signed by celebrities. The Toledo Mud Hens minor league baseball team offers USD 5 student tickets – way cheaper than major league games in other cities in Columbus Ohio, and beyond.

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6. Cincinnati

Total Population: 314,834
Average Commute: 20 minutes
Median Monthly Rent: USD 792

Built on seven hills like ancient Rome, Cincinnati offers breathtaking views and distinctive neighborhoods. The city’s stunning Roebling Suspension Bridge inspired the design of the Brooklyn Bridge in New York!

Foodies fall in love with Cincy’s unique chilli – a Mediterranean-spiced meat sauce served over spaghetti with cheese, onions, and beans. Over-the-Rhine, once considered dangerous, has transformed into one of America’s coolest neighborhoods with Findlay Market at its heart – Ohio’s oldest continuously operated public market.

Students enjoy free admission days at the Cincinnati Art Museum and incredible concerts at Washington Park. The city’s extensive Metro system offers half-price fares for college students – a huge saving compared to owning a car.

7. Dayton

Total Population: 145,118
Average Commute: 18 min
Median Monthly Rent: USD 660‍

Dayton offers unique opportunities for aerospace and engineering students. With rents averaging just USD 660, it ranks among the best places to live in Ohio.

The city’s impressive network of aviation heritage sites includes the Wright Brothers’ original bicycle shop. Dayton’s Oregon District survived an 1813 flood and now serves as the city’s arts and entertainment hub, with buildings dating back to the 1800s.

Kayaking through downtown on the Great Miami River gives students a unique perspective of the city. Dayton’s impressive “Packed Lunch Program” offers USD 5 lunches at participating restaurants – perfect for budget-conscious students.

Discover top student accommodations in Dayton and book the perfect place to call home during your studies!
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8. Akron

Total Population: 192,967
Average Commute: 19 min
Median Monthly Rent: USD 724

The birthplace of basketball legend LeBron James offers incredible value for students. Known as the “Rubber Capital of the World,” Akron has transformed its industrial past into hip, affordable living spaces.

The city’s amazing Lock 3 Park hosts over 200 events yearly, including free concerts and festivals. Akron’s unique Hamburger Station restaurants serve sliders that put White Castle to shame – perfect for late-night study fuel.

Nature lovers appreciate Akron’s location at the edge of Cuyahoga Valley National Park – the only national park in Ohio. The FREE Summit Metro Parks Hiking Spree program rewards hikers who complete seven specified trails with a walking stick and badge – a unique local tradition since 1964.

Discover the best student stays in Akron and book a comfortable, convenient home for your university life!

9. Oxford

Total Population: 24,214
Average Commute: 11 min
Median Monthly Rent: USD 781

Named after Oxford, England, this charming town revolves around Miami University, whose campus was once described by poet Robert Frost as “the most beautiful campus that ever there was.” Unlike larger cities in Columbus Ohio, everything here is walkable.

Oxford’s unique “ghost stories” tour explores the town’s haunted history, including the famous Marcum Hotel. The local Uptown Park hosts free movie nights throughout summer, while Oxford Lane Library offers free 3D printing services – perfect for class projects.

The town’s “Quarter Mile” tradition involves visiting all 45 bars in a single night, though we recommend spreading this adventure over your entire college career! With events like the annual Kinetics Festival, where participants create human-powered sculptures, Oxford’s creative energy makes it a standout among the best places to live in Ohio.

10. New Albany

Total Population: 11,219
Average Commute: 22 min
Median Monthly Rent: USD 1,401

Founded in 1837 but essentially reinvented in the 1990s, New Albany offers a meticulously planned community near Columbus Ohio. While housing costs run higher here, many students find excellent shared housing opportunities in this safe, beautiful suburb.

The entire town connects through 55+ miles of leisure trails, allowing you to bike anywhere without touching a main road. The stunning Philip Heit Center for Healthy New Albany includes a medical fitness facility focusing on both preventative and medical care, perfect for health-conscious students.

New Albany’s incredible Rose Run Park features an iconic wooden bridge connecting the library to the school campus. As one of the safest cities in Ohio, New Albany’s crime rate sits 82% below the national average – a significant consideration for students and parents.

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Safe Student Housing in Ohio

Ohio is home to top universities and welcoming communities, making it a great place for students to live and study. Whether you're heading to Columbus, Toledo, or another campus town, off-campus student housing in Ohio offers a wide range of options to match every lifestyle and budget.

Looking for the best places to live in Ohio? Discover top-rated neighborhoods and student-friendly stays with Amber. Our housing options come with modern amenities such as furnished rooms, study lounges, gyms, and easy transit connectivity.

Explore our top picks for student housing in Ohio:

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