Cincinnati and Cleveland are two of Ohio’s biggest cities, each with its own distinct personality and place in history. Ask anyone who’s lived in both, and they’ll tell you that choosing between Cincinnati vs. Cleveland is a matter of personal preference.
Both cities have their strengths and weaknesses. It really depends on what you’re looking for in a place to live, work, and play.
This article aims to provide a comprehensive comparison of these two Ohio hubs, looking at things like the cost of living, the job market, the overall vibe, the arts and entertainment scene, and how easy it is to get around. Our goal is to give you the information you need to decide which city might be a better fit for you.
Overall Comparisons: Population, Public Transportation, and Weather
Let’s take a quick look at how Cincinnati and Cleveland stack up when it comes to population, public transportation, and weather.
Population and Demographics
Cleveland is the bigger city, with a population hovering around 381,000, compared to Cincinnati’s 304,000. It’s worth noting that while Cleveland has more residents, the metro areas of both cities are closer in size.
(I’ll dig into the demographic differences, like age, race, and ethnicity, a little later in the article.)
Public Transportation
If you’re planning to rely on public transportation, Cleveland might be a slightly better bet. Its public transportation system is more extensive than Cincinnati’s. In Cleveland, you can take advantage of buses, trains, and even a light rail system to get around. Cincinnati has buses, streetcars and paratransit options.
Weather
Bundle up if you’re heading to Cleveland in the winter! Cleveland tends to get more snow and experience colder winters than Cincinnati. You can expect average temperatures in Cleveland to hover in the low 20s in January, while Cincinnati’s average January temperatures are in the upper 20s. Both cities see their fair share of rain and humidity throughout the year.
Location and Lifestyle: Riverfront vs. Lakefront
Cincinnati and Cleveland offer radically different environments. One sits nestled along the Ohio River, while the other spreads out on the shores of Lake Erie.
Cleveland’s lakefront defines much of the city’s character. The lake provides opportunities for boating, fishing, and relaxing on the beach. The lake also influences the climate, often bringing cool breezes in the summer.
Cincinnati, in contrast, is a river city. The Ohio River offers a different kind of recreational experience. River cruises are popular, and the city has invested in developing its riverfront parks and restaurants. The riverfront contributes to the city’s vibrant atmosphere, especially during festivals and events.
Ultimately, the choice between a lakefront and a riverfront lifestyle comes down to personal preference. Do you want beaches and boating, or river cruises and waterfront dining? Both cities offer unique experiences, shaped by their distinctive geographical settings.
Cost of Living: A Detailed Breakdown
One of the biggest factors in deciding where to live is how far your dollar will stretch. Let’s break down the cost of living in Cleveland versus Cincinnati.
Housing Costs
Whether you’re buying or renting, housing is a major expense. In Cleveland, the median home price hovers around $130,000, significantly lower than Cincinnati’s $210,800. If you’re looking to rent, you’ll find that rent prices in Cleveland are about 2% less than in Cincinnati.
Both cities offer a mix of housing options. You’ll find apartments, condos, and single-family homes in varying styles and price ranges in both Cleveland and Cincinnati. Cleveland tends to have more older housing stock, while Cincinnati has seen a surge in new construction in recent years.
Everyday Expenses
Beyond housing, consider the cost of everyday necessities. You might be surprised to learn that home utilities are a bit cheaper in Cleveland, about 3.3% less than in Cincinnati. Groceries also tend to be a little less expensive in Cleveland, with a food cost index of 93.5 compared to Cincinnati’s 97.6. The same holds true for transportation, with Cleveland having a transportation index of 90.5 compared to Cincinnati’s 93.6.
For example, you might find that a gallon of milk costs slightly less in Cleveland than in Cincinnati. Similarly, a monthly transit pass might be a few dollars cheaper in Cleveland.
Healthcare Costs
Healthcare is another essential consideration. Cleveland boasts healthcare costs that are approximately 8% lower than those in Cincinnati. Both cities have a wide range of healthcare providers and insurance options. Cleveland is home to world-renowned medical institutions like the Cleveland Clinic, which may contribute to the lower overall costs through competitive pricing.
Income and Economy: Job Markets and Opportunities
Your income and career prospects play a huge role in your overall quality of life. Let’s take a look at the economies of Cincinnati and Cleveland to see which one might offer better opportunities.
Median Household Income
The median household income in Cincinnati is about $46,260, compared to $32,053 in Cleveland. That’s a pretty significant difference. A few factors contribute to this. Cincinnati has a more diverse economy with a stronger presence in consumer goods and manufacturing, while Cleveland has historically relied more heavily on manufacturing, though healthcare has become a major player.
Key Industries and Employers in Cleveland
Cleveland’s economy is anchored by major healthcare systems like the Cleveland Clinic and University Hospitals. These are huge employers, offering a wide range of jobs from medical professionals to administrative staff. Other significant employers include KeyCorp (banking), Progressive Corporation (insurance), and Sherwin-Williams (paints and coatings). There’s decent growth potential in the healthcare and tech sectors in Cleveland.
Key Industries and Employers in Cincinnati
Cincinnati boasts a strong presence in the consumer goods, retail, and advanced manufacturing sectors. You’ll find major employers like Procter & Gamble (consumer goods), Kroger (grocery retail), and Macy’s (department stores) headquartered there. These companies offer a range of opportunities in marketing, management, logistics, and manufacturing. With its diverse economy, Cincinnati seems to offer a bit more stability and growth potential, particularly in the areas of consumer goods and technology related to manufacturing.
Things to Do: Culture, Recreation, and Entertainment
Both Cincinnati and Cleveland offer a wide range of cultural, recreational, and entertainment activities. Here’s a glimpse into what each city has to offer.
Parks and Outdoor Activities
Cleveland boasts the extensive Cleveland Metroparks, a system spanning over 23,000 acres. Often called the “Emerald Necklace” because of the way the parks encircle the city, it offers a natural escape with trails, lakes, and scenic overlooks. Details on Cincinnati’s major parks and outdoor recreational areas are coming soon!
Museums, Arts, and Culture
Cleveland is perhaps most famous for being home to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, a must-see for music lovers. Details on Cincinnati’s key museums, art galleries, and cultural institutions are coming soon!
The Cincinnati Art Museum holds a collection of over 67,000 works spanning 6,000 years. The Cincinnati Zoo is also a premier attraction, known for its conservation efforts and diverse animal population.
Sports and Entertainment
Cleveland is represented by the Browns (NFL), the Guardians (MLB), and the Cavaliers (NBA), offering a variety of sporting events throughout the year.
Cincinnati is home to the Bengals (NFL), the Reds (MLB), and FC Cincinnati (MLS), providing ample opportunities for sports fans to cheer on their favorite teams.
Beyond sports, both cities offer a variety of entertainment options. Details on theaters, music venues, and festivals in both cities are coming soon!
Quality of Life Considerations: Education, Healthcare, and Safety
Beyond the cost of living and the job market, education, healthcare, and safety are key factors in determining the overall quality of life in Cincinnati and Cleveland.
Education
Both cities offer a mix of public and private school options, with varying degrees of quality depending on the specific neighborhood. Cincinnati is home to the University of Cincinnati, Xavier University, and several smaller colleges. Cleveland boasts Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland State University, and a number of other institutions of higher learning. The quality of education is generally considered high in both metropolitan areas.
Healthcare
While the cost of healthcare is a factor, the availability and quality of medical services are equally important. Both Cincinnati and Cleveland have a wide range of healthcare options, from primary care physicians to specialized medical centers. Cincinnati is known for its top-notch hospitals like the University of Cincinnati Medical Center and Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center. Cleveland is home to the world-renowned Cleveland Clinic, as well as University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center, both of which consistently rank high in national surveys.
Safety and Crime Rates
Safety is a primary concern for anyone considering a move. Generally speaking, Cleveland has a higher crime rate than Cincinnati, although crime rates vary significantly depending on the specific neighborhood. Both cities have areas known for their safety and family-friendly atmosphere, as well as neighborhoods with higher crime rates. It’s important to research specific areas within each city to get a clear picture of the safety situation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Cleveland or Cincinnati better to live?
That’s a tough one! It really depends on what you’re looking for. Cincinnati has a more vibrant arts scene and a slightly lower cost of living. Cleveland offers lakefront living, a renowned orchestra, and a revitalized downtown. Both cities have their charms, so it boils down to personal preference.
Who is favored to win Cincinnati vs. Cleveland?
This depends entirely on which Cincinnati vs. Cleveland we’re talking about! Are we talking about football (Bengals vs. Browns), baseball (Reds vs. Guardians), or some other competition? You’ll need to check the latest odds from a reputable sports source closer to the game date to get the most accurate answer.
Which city is bigger, Cincinnati or Cleveland?
Cleveland is generally considered the larger city in terms of population. However, the difference isn’t massive, and the size of the metropolitan area can shift the numbers a bit. It’s a close call, but Cleveland usually takes the lead in population counts.
Why is Cleveland so popular?
Cleveland’s popularity is on the rise! It boasts a revitalized downtown area with fantastic restaurants and entertainment, world-class cultural institutions like the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame and the Cleveland Museum of Art, and affordable living compared to many other major cities. Plus, its location on Lake Erie offers unique recreational opportunities and beautiful scenery.
Final Thoughts
Cincinnati and Cleveland are both great cities, but they offer very different experiences. Cincinnati boasts a more historic feel, a thriving arts scene, and a slightly lower cost of living. Cleveland, on the other hand, has a revitalized downtown, world-class healthcare, and a more robust job market in some sectors.
Ultimately, the “better” city depends entirely on what you’re looking for. Are you drawn to historic architecture and a vibrant cultural landscape? Or do you prioritize access to top-notch medical facilities and diverse career opportunities?
Before making a decision, I strongly encourage you to do some more digging and, if possible, visit both cities. Experience the unique atmosphere of each, talk to the locals, and see which one truly resonates with you. The best city is the one that feels like home.