Best Places to Live in Ohio [2025 Data]

Ohio is often seen as a hidden gem in the Midwest, offering affordable living, safe communities, excellent schools, and plenty of local amenities.

Whether you're moving for work, school, or simply a change of pace, Ohio has a wide range of cities that cater to all types of lifestyles.

Below, we explore the top 10 best places to live in Ohio, based on factors like cost of living, safety, public schools, job opportunities, and local amenities.

1. Blue Ash

Location: Suburb of Cincinnati.

Rating: A+.

Population: 13,374.

Blue Ash, located in the suburb of Cincinnati, holds an impressive A+ rating and boasts a population of 13,374. Known for its outstanding public schools, Blue Ash is a family-friendly neighborhood with excellent amenities such as Summit Park and a top-rated recreation center. It offers an extremely safe environment, making it one of the best places to live in Ohio.

2. Pepper Pike

Location: Suburb of Cleveland.

Rating: A+.

Population: 6,807.

This affluent suburb of Cleveland, Pepper Pike, receives an A+ rating and has a population of 6,807. With its wealth of local amenities, low crime rates, and exceptional public schools, Pepper Pike is ideal for families looking for a quiet, secure community close to Cleveland’s urban offerings.

3. Oakwood

Location: Suburb of Dayton.

Rating: A+.

Population: 9,480.

Oakwood, located in the suburb of Dayton, boasts an A+ rating and has a population of 9,480. The neighborhood is known for its peaceful, well-maintained streets, excellent public schools, and a close-knit community. It’s perfect for those who prefer a slower pace of life but still want access to the amenities of a larger city.

4. Mariemont

Location: Suburb of Cincinnati.

Rating: A+.

Population: 3,477.

Mariemont, a charming suburb of Cincinnati, has an A+ rating and a population of 3,477. This picturesque town features well-preserved, historic neighborhoods and offers a high standard of living. With its strong community spirit and top-tier schools, Mariemont is a desirable place for families and professionals alike.

5. Shaker Heights

Location: Suburb of Cleveland.

Rating: A+ (B+ for diversity).

Population: 29,004.

Shaker Heights, located in Cleveland, earns an A+ rating and has a population of 29,004. While it offers excellent public schools and beautiful historic neighborhoods, it faces some challenges regarding diversity. Despite this, it remains a safe and desirable place to live, with easy access to Cleveland’s cultural and employment opportunities.

6. Mason

Location: Suburb of Cincinnati.

Rating: A+.

Population: 35,148.

Situated in the suburb of Cincinnati, Mason holds an A+ rating and has a population of 35,148. Known for its family-friendly vibe, safe neighborhoods, and excellent schools, Mason is also home to popular local attractions like Kings Island amusement park and a variety of local restaurants and shops.

7. Ottawa Hills

Location: Suburb of Toledo.

Rating: A+.

Population: 4,796.

Ottawa Hills, a suburb of Toledo, boasts an A+ rating and has a population of 4,796. This affluent neighborhood is renowned for its top-ranked public schools and low crime rates. The community is quiet and picturesque, with beautiful homes and a close-knit atmosphere.

8. Upper Arlington

Location: Suburb of Columbus.

Rating: A+.

Population: 36,319.

Upper Arlington, located in Columbus, holds an A+ rating and has a population of 36,319. This charming community offers tree-lined streets, excellent schools, and a safe, family-friendly environment. It’s perfect for families seeking suburban tranquility without sacrificing proximity to city amenities.

9. Bexley

Location: Suburb of Columbus.

Rating: A+.

Population: 13,324.

Bexley, a suburb of Columbus, has an A+ rating and a population of 13,324. Known for its historic homes and tree-lined streets, Bexley offers a peaceful, upscale lifestyle with excellent schools and easy access to downtown Columbus. It’s ideal for families and young professionals alike.

10. Madeira

Location: Suburb of Cincinnati.

Rating: A+.

Population: 9,454.

Madeira, located in the suburb of Cincinnati, holds an A+ rating and a population of 9,454. It offers a quiet, small-town feel with strong community engagement and excellent public schools. The town is well-maintained, providing a safe and peaceful environment for families to thrive.

Conclusion

Ohio is home to a wide variety of cities offering excellent opportunities for families, professionals, and retirees alike.

From the suburbs of Cleveland and Cincinnati to the charming, small-town communities in Dayton, Ohio's best cities provide safety, great schools, and local amenities that make them stand out.

Whether you’re looking for a city with low crime rates, excellent schools, or a vibrant local community, Ohio has something for everyone.

For those looking to relocate, places like Blue Ash, Pepper Pike, and Mason offer a balanced mix of suburban tranquility and urban convenience, while cities like Upper Arlington and Oakwood offer charming neighborhoods and top-tier public schools.

Ready to make a move? Explore these best places to live in Ohio and call Armbruster Moving & Storage to move in your perfect home today!