CITY OF CINCINNATI
City Offices
801 Plum Street
Cincinnati 513-352-3243
https://www.cincinnati-oh.gov
Chamber of Commerce
3 East 4th Street
Cincinnati 513-579-3100
https://www.cincinnatichamber.com
Nearly topping the list of America’s Most Livable Large Cities, Cincinnati is brimming over with surprises from sweeping revitalization to the nation’s largest investment in riverfront development. Newcomers to Cincinnati will discover a world of positive transformation, solid Midwestern values, reverence for the past, and the charm of quaint and historic neighborhoods. The city’s harmony of contrasts creates a unique vitality for the entire region, combining Fortune 500 companies with world-class cultural attractions, professional sports action, and popular entertainment centers. The most unique aspect of Cincinnati’s balancing act is the blend of cosmopolitan sophistication with the friendly spirit of a small town. Cincinnati residents and planners share a pride in their city, a metropolis that climbs over wooded suburbs and gentle hills to command spectacular views of the Ohio River.
Services
Newcomers to Cincinnati will be impressed by the caliber of educational and healthcare services and facilities, from acclaimed teaching hospitals and research centers to leading colleges and universities. Efficient healthcare organizations like Health Alliance manage a strong network of hospitals and medical centers. Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, Christ Hospital, The University Hospital, Good Samaritan Hospital, Bethesda North Hospital, and the Shriner’s Hospital for children are all located in Cincinnati. Emergency and walk-in medical centers, family practice clinics, long-term care, home care, skilled nursing, and specialty care units combine with a dedication to promote healthy living and wellness.
First-rate educational opportunities are available on every academic level from preschool through undergraduate, graduate, and professional studies. Parents can choose from a number of private school options that integrate religious values or simply offer innovative or challenging academic environments. Students of all ages can access institutions of higher education from career institutes to major universities and highly respected private colleges.
Cincinnati State Technical and Community College provides a wealth of affordable options for degree-seeking students and continuing education. Specialized training is available at institutes like the Art Academy of Cincinnati, the Art Institute of Cincinnati, the College of Art Advertising, the Southwestern College of Business, or the Institute for Broadcast Education. As a highly respected Ohio public research university, the University of Cincinnati is also distinguished as the city’s largest employer. Among the private schools are Antonelli College, Chatfield College, the College of Mount St. Joseph, Hebrew Union College, the Union Institute & University, and Xavier University.
Lifestyle
Charles Dickens called Cincinnati “one of the most interesting cities in America,” and Winston Churchill declared it our nation’s most beautiful inland city. The architectural grandeur that inspired Henry Wadsworth Longfellow to dub Cincinnati as the “Queen City of the West” has been the cornerstone for sweeping renewal projects. Within the past decade, more than $3 billion investment dollars have poured into urban core revitalization. Numerous world-class development projects along 40 acres of reclaimed riverfront have sparked the incredible “renaissance on the river” to showcase lush parks, fine homes, and sports stadiums. Many associate the city with the famous Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Garden, a treasure of conservation and education and one of the nation’s top five zoos.
The city is assuming new leading roles as a high-tech leader and incubator for creative initiatives and resources. More than 5,000 acres of parkland and green space provide countless opportunities for relaxation and recreation. An enviable cultural and arts scene, wonderful museums and galleries, and scores of other quality-of-life advantages have brought Cincinnati to a new pinnacle of recognition and achievement. Add to the mix the area’s natural beauty, historic charm, and strong traditions for a winning formula that is energized by imagination yet firmly grounded in reality. The neighborhoods that are profiled in this guide represent a small sample of more than 50 distinctive residential areas within the city.
NOTABLE NEIGHBORHOODS
Bond Hill
Cincinnati City Hall
513-352-3243
https://www.cincinnati-oh.gov
Chamber of Commerce
513-579-3100
https://www.cincinnatichamber.com
To the south of the east-west Norwood Lateral or Route 562, the Bond Hill area provides easy access to the major thoroughfares of Interstates 71 and 75. The housing selection features a pleasing mix of architectural styles that include classic Tudors in a wooded setting along with affordable one and two-family homes. Historic Victorian and Queen Anne homes add charm to this long-established area with its mature greenery. The Bond Hill Community Center provides a wealth of services and facilities for socialization and recreation. Downtown is just 10 minutes from home and the airport can be reached in 25 minutes.
Clifton
Cincinnati City Hall
513-352-3243
https://www.cincinnati-oh.gov
Chamber of Commerce
513-579-3100
https://www.cincinnatichamber.com
Gaslight street lamps and elegant mansions are just two of the distinctive features that reflect Clifton’s colorful and rich history. This community represents one of the city’s first suburbs, the site chosen by wealthy industrialists who wanted to escape the downtown bustle. Today, this stately neighborhood features leading educational and healthcare institutions including the University of Cincinnati and Hebrew Union College. Clifton area hospitals include Good Samaritan, Cincinnati Children’s, University Hospital, and Shriner’s Hospital. Lush parks, small shops, and abundant restaurants add to the quality of life. The Esquire Theater on Ludlow is a popular landmark. Downtown Cincinnati is a 10-minute drive and the airport is just 25 minutes away.
College Hill
Cincinnati City Hall
513-352-3243
https://www.cincinnati-oh.gov
Chamber of Commerce
513-579-3100
https://www.cincinnatichamber.com
Taking its name from the two colleges that were once located in the area, College Hill began as a prestigious residential community in the 1850s. Stately homes filled with unique character and charm line the tree-shaded streets. Beautiful Tudors, attractive ranches, and a high-rise condominium are all part of the housing selection in College Hill. “The Avenue” is the area’s lively business district, featuring boutiques and small shops. Many plans for redevelopment are on the drawing board for College Hill. The area’s accessibility to public transit, the distinctive housing selection, and a spirit of revitalization are all points that continue to attract newcomers. Downtown is a 20-minute drive and the airport is 30 minutes from home.
Columbia-Tusculum
Cincinnati City Hall
513-352-3243
https://www.cincinnati-oh.gov
Chamber of Commerce
513-579-3100
https://www.cincinnatichamber.com
The former steamboat manufacturing town of Columbia-Tusculum is the oldest community in Greater Cincinnati. Gracious, elegant Victorian homes and the natural beauty of a hillside setting make this a popular neighborhood with those who are interested in renovation and architectural preservation. Newer homes in a variety of styles harmonize beautifully with yesterday’s Victorian “painted ladies” and their striking palette of colors. The charm of this unique cityscape is further enhanced by a new town center complex, interesting shops, and cozy restaurants. Columbia Parkway provides a five-minute trip downtown and the airport is 20 minutes away.
Covedale
Cincinnati City Hall
513-352-3243
https://www.cincinnati-oh.gov
Chamber of Commerce
513-579-3100
https://www.cincinnatichamber.com
The family-oriented community of Covedale is situated along the border to Delhi and Green townships just 15 minutes from downtown and 30 minutes from the airport. Handsome Tudor-style and older brick homes line attractive residential streets, maintaining a strong real estate value through the decades. Some of the highlights in the Covedale area include quality educational facilities, a public golf course, an active community center, and the Covedale Center for Performing Arts. This former movie house has passed through a number of generations of use but has emerged in full glory as a cultural treasure and showcase for the arts. Home to Cincinnati Young People’s Theatre, the center is also the winter home of Showboat Majestic.
Downtown District
Cincinnati City Hall
513-352-3243
https://www.cincinnati-oh.gov
Chamber of Commerce
513-579-3100
https://www.cincinnatichamber.com
The bustling hub of Cincinnati is home to professional sports teams and venues, hundreds of shops and restaurants, and opportunities for downtown living. Many singles and young professional couples are making the move toward the “center of the action.” The expanding housing selection ranges from high-rise riverfront condominiums that command spectacular views to beautifully renovated apartments in historic buildings. Lovely new townhouses, luxurious new apartments, and warehouse-style lofts provide a kaleidoscope of lifestyle choices. Downtown is brimming over with attractions, including historic churches, celebrated landmarks, the Taft Museum of Art, the Lois & Richard Rosenthal Center for the Arts, and the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center.
East End
Cincinnati City Hall
513-352-3243
https://www.cincinnati-oh.gov
Chamber of Commerce
513-579-3100
https://www.cincinnatichamber.com
The historic East End neighborhood just 10 minutes from downtown has experienced significant construction activity in recent years. Beautiful older homes and historic properties blend with vibrant new waterfront condominiums and luxury townhouses—many of which command breathtaking river views. This hands-on community is a model for cooperative planning and draws enthusiastic participation in matters of zoning, services, and the school system. The community center features first-rate recreational facilities and programs, and lush parks grace the area with green space. Several neighborhood plazas are close to home but major malls are only minutes away. The airport is a 30-minute drive from the East End.
Evendale
Cincinnati City Hall
513-352-3243
https://www.cincinnati-oh.gov
Chamber of Commerce
513-579-3100
https://www.cincinnatichamber.com
The area known as Evendale blends lovely residential neighborhoods with sections of brisk business and commerce. The daytime population of this area climbs by nearly 11,000 as employees arrive at their jobs in Evendale. General Electric is an especially powerful presence in this section of the city, and a pleasing variety of middle to upper-class housing has sprung up to accommodate the needs of managers and executives. Exceptional school districts, a beautiful community swimming pool, a 20-minute drive to downtown attractions, and close proximity to major shopping malls make Evendale a desirable community. This area is home to St. Rita School for the Deaf and draws enthusiastic crowds to the annual St. Rita Fest.
Hyde Park
Cincinnati City Hall
513-352-3243
https://www.cincinnati-oh.gov
Chamber of Commerce
513-579-3100
https://www.cincinnatichamber.com
Celebrating its 100th birthday in 2003, historic Hyde Park still attracts young professionals to a prestigious neighborhood and a short 10-minute commute to downtown. Stately manors, luxurious condominiums, and handsome townhouses are among the housing options in leafy and serene Hyde Park. Trendy and charming, the recently renovated Hyde Park Square serves as a focal point for the area with its boutiques, galleries, and restaurants. Rookwood Pavilion and the new Rookwood Commons are nearby. Other highlights include Hyde Park Golf & Country Club, other private clubs, and nearby parks. The Hyde Park Art Show is a very popular annual event that draws hundreds of national artists.
Kennedy Heights
Cincinnati City Hall
513-352-3243
https://www.cincinnati-oh.gov
Chamber of Commerce
513-579-3100
https://www.cincinnatichamber.com
Another area at the dawning of revival, Kennedy Heights is justly proud of its cornerstone Kennedy Heights Arts Center. This wonderful cultural resource was established through the vision, planning, and hard work of area residents and civic leaders who wanted to enhance the life of those in the surrounding area through the arts. Performance studios combine with indoor and outdoor gallery spaces and a variety of classes and workshops to meet a variety of needs. The housing options include neat brick-style homes, from New England Cape Cods to English Tudors, and newer construction. In addition to lush local parks, this area offers quick access to spectator sports venues, major shopping malls, and superior freeway connections. Downtown is a 20-minute drive from home and the airport is 30 minutes away.
Linwood
Cincinnati City Hall
513-352-3243
https://www.cincinnati-oh.gov
Chamber of Commerce
513-579-3100
https://www.cincinnatichamber.com
The small but friendly neighborhood of Linwood is situated east of the downtown district. The housing mix in Linwood blends a wide variety of single-family homes in different settings with duplexes and affordable, older homes. Linwood is home to Lunken Airport, a general aviation facility that serves private, corporate, and air cargo commercial airplanes. Developed recreational amenities include tennis courts, lush parks, golf courses, picnic areas, playgrounds, and miles of paved trails for exercise and enjoyment. Nearby Lunken also features the historic Memorial Pioneer Cemetery, the burial site of some of the city’s earliest pioneers. Abundant shopping is nearby, although some local restaurants are quite popular. Linwood is 15 minutes from downtown and about 30 minutes from the airport.
Mount Adams
Cincinnati City Hall
513-352-3243
https://www.cincinnati-oh.gov
Chamber of Commerce
513-579-3100
https://www.cincinnatichamber.com
Known as Mount Ida until 1843, this lovely hillside neighborhood of Cincinnati began as a vineyard. The area was renamed to honor former United States president John Quincy Adams, who actually spoke at the dedication of a new observatory. In recent years, this area has emerged as an artsy, hip neighborhood brimming over with style and charm. Unique clusters of specialty shops, art and antique stores, nightspots, and restaurants harmonize with the grandeur of century-old restored homes. Buildings tend to be high and narrow to conform to the hillside contours and to preserve the panoramic river views. Residents enjoy easy access to beautiful Eden Park, home to the Cincinnati Art Museum, Krohn Conservatory, and Playhouse in the Park. The airport is 20 minutes away and downtown is within walking distance from Mt. Adams.
Mount Airy
Cincinnati City Hall
513-352-3243
https://www.cincinnati-oh.gov
Chamber of Commerce
513-579-3100
https://www.cincinnatichamber.com
The area known as Mt. Airy had its suburban housing boom at the end of World War II, when new homes began to crawl over the blend of farmland with country homes. Perched on the highest point of land in Hamilton County just minutes from downtown, Mt. Airy draws newcomers to a surprisingly rich variety of housing. Modest bungalows on tidy, well-manicured lots contrast with executive homes or handsome new construction. The small business district features local shop owners, although expansive retail development is close by. The crowning recreational amenity is the nearly 1,500 acres preserved as Mt. Airy Forest, offering hiking paths, picnic shelters, game areas, and an arboretum.
Mount Auburn
Cincinnati City Hall
513-352-3243
https://www.cincinnati-oh.gov
Chamber of Commerce
513-579-3100
https://www.cincinnatichamber.com
Just five minutes from downtown and 25 minutes from the airport, the exclusive neighborhood of Mt. Auburn showcases a number of impressive estates and magnificent homes. Once a hilltop retreat for affluent Cincinnati residents, Mt. Auburn features the home of William Howard Taft, the 27th United States president. Spectacular mansions that have been meticulously restored to their former glory often command breathtaking views. Properties that are ideal for renovation are drawing bargain hunters who realize the inherent value of this wonderful close-in neighborhood with its lofty elevation. Many of the solidly built smaller brick and frame homes are ideal for restoration or remodeling. Christ Hospital is a major medical facility in this area.
Mount Lookout
Cincinnati City Hall
513-352-3243
https://www.cincinnati-oh.gov
Chamber of Commerce
513-579-3100
https://www.cincinnatichamber.com
Offering a pleasing variety of upscale, single-family homes, Mt. Lookout is known for its attractive housing options and solid real estate values. Beautiful condominiums create the opportunity for a low-maintenance lifestyle, attracting many singles and professionals to the area. Families are equally at home in Mt. Lookout, where the community spirit is especially warm and bright. An active civic club sponsors the holiday luminaria lighting, and community gatherings or block parties are popular diversions. Mt. Lookout Square features an eclectic collection of shops and eateries, although the Cincinnati Observatory Center is the crown jewel of attractions. This national historic landmark opened in 1873. Residents are 12 minutes from downtown and a 25-minute drive from the airport.
Mount Washington
Cincinnati City Hall
513-352-3243
https://www.cincinnati-oh.gov
Chamber of Commerce
513-579-3100
https://www.cincinnatichamber.com
Proud of the recent addition of its $5.5 million recreation center, Mt. Washington features the Water Tower as its traditional neighborhood landmark. This historic area was first settled in 1790 and provides a wide variety of residential choices. Many of the affordable homes in this area represent a blend of well-kept older and newer properties that are primarily Cape Cods, ranches, and two-story traditionals. Popular pastimes for local residents include horseback riding, picnicking, hiking, biking, tennis, and golfing. The 125-acre Stanbery Park received a facelift of new walkways, playgrounds, benches, and bike racks. Mercy Hospital Anderson Hospital, downtown Cincinnati, and the airport are all just a few minutes away from home.
North Avondale
Cincinnati City Hall
513-352-3243
https://www.cincinnati-oh.gov
Chamber of Commerce
513-579-3100
https://www.cincinnatichamber.com
The magnificence of grand homes, lovely winding streets, and the charm of gaslight lamps give North Avondale an almost European flavor. First settled by Cincinnati’s most wealthy industrialists and entrepreneurs, North Avondale is a showcase of lovely homes that were primarily constructed between 1900 and 1940. The civic association is strong and proactive, underlining a close-knit spirit. North Avondale Community Center is a hub of social and recreational activity, combining sports facilities with a variety of programs for youth and adults. Golfing, swimming, and exploring nature are popular leisure pursuits in this area that also close to downtown, shopping, and cultural programming.
Northside
Cincinnati City Hall
513-352-3243
https://www.cincinnati-oh.gov
Chamber of Commerce
513-579-3100
https://www.cincinnatichamber.com
The shady and serene streets of Northside are lined with a pleasing mix of older brick and frame homes, cozy bungalows, elegant Victorians, and newer construction. The selection of affordable older homes has served to draw a significant number of young middle-class families to the neighborhood. Clubs and organizations tend to be very active in this community, which is only 10 minutes from downtown. Chic boutiques, specialty shops, and trendy restaurants enhance the appeal of the cityscape and create a lively hometown atmosphere. The University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati State Technical and Community College, and several hospitals are close by. The airport is a 25-minute drive from home.
Oakley
Cincinnati City Hall
513-352-3243
https://www.cincinnati-oh.gov
Chamber of Commerce
513-579-3100
https://www.cincinnatichamber.com
Incorporated in 1898, Oakley was annexed to the city of Cincinnati in 1913. This well-balanced community nevertheless retains a sense of proud identity. Oakley has managed to remain one of the city’s desirable residential havens because of its unassuming charm, solid character, wonderful shopping, and centralized location. Newcomers will find a good selection of affordable older brick and frame houses. Closer to downtown where Oakley hugs more affluent neighborhoods, many young professionals are buying and renovating well-crafted older homes filled with character and charm. Oakley Square is the center of commerce with its collection of specialty shops, restaurants, and old-fashioned eateries. Residents enjoy easy access to Greater Cincinnati through a convergence of major highways that make Oakley a major transportation hub.
Over-the-Rhine
Cincinnati City Hall
513-352-3243
https://www.cincinnati-oh.gov
Chamber of Commerce
513-579-3100
https://www.cincinnatichamber.com
Just a five-minute walk from downtown, Over-the-Rhine or OTR is attractive to young families for its blend of affordable housing and old-world charm. This long-established neighborhood was named for the original German immigrants who crossed over the Miami-Erie Canal on their way home from downtown. Over-the-Rhine boasts the nation’s largest and most impressive collection of ornate Italianate buildings, creating a backdrop of grand architecture. Main Street has developed into a trendy corridor of antique shops, art galleries, restaurants and cafes, coffee houses, and brewpubs. The Pendleton section of OTR is a haven for bohemian artists and design studios and a number of web-based companies. Two of the city’s oldest institutions, Music Hall and Findlay Market, are located in OTR.
Pleasant Ridge
Cincinnati City Hall
513-352-3243
https://www.cincinnati-oh.gov
Chamber of Commerce
513-579-3100
https://www.cincinnatichamber.com
From its roots as an agricultural community, Pleasant Ridge evolves into a retreat for wealthy industrialists and their country mansions. This area remains primarily residential today, providing an impressive selection of well-maintained Cape Cods, Tudors, and traditional two-story colonials shaded by a canopy of trees. Many of these attractive lanes are still aglow with gas lamp lights on starry evenings. Neighborhood clubs and lively block parties are commonplace in this warm and close atmosphere, and the local business association seeks to improve and stimulate local commerce. Community events draw enthusiast crowds to shared activities like tree lightings or holiday luminarias. Downtown is just a 15-minute drive from home and the airport is 30 minutes away.
Price Hill
Cincinnati City Hall
513-352-3243
https://www.cincinnati-oh.gov
Chamber of Commerce
513-579-3100
https://www.cincinnatichamber.com
Originally named Bold Face Hill for Chief Bold Face, the Price Hill area offers panoramic hilltop views and affordable Victorian and brick or frame houses. The stunning vistas that are commanded by the neighborhood’s natural terrain have long drawn visitors who also enjoy the fine and casual restaurants and shops. Several beautiful churches and educational institutions like the Cincinnati Bible College are at home in this area that enjoys a quick 15-minute trip to downtown. Access to public transportation is excellent and the airport is 30 minutes from home. One of the exceptional residential developments in Price Hill is the luxurious high rise known as Queen’s Tower.
Walnut Hills, East Walnut Hills
Cincinnati City Hall
513-352-3243
https://www.cincinnati-oh.gov
Chamber of Commerce
513-579-3100
https://www.cincinnatichamber.com
The historic area that encompasses the neighborhoods of Walnut Hills and East Walnut Hills features elegantly restored turn-of-the-century mansions and older homes that are ideal for renovation. With roots that date back to the 18th century, the community grew up around the First Presbyterian Church and attracted wealthy residents to premier home sites. Harriet Beecher Stowe lived in Walnut Hills and the Lane Seminary played a vital role in the anti-slavery movement. Like many long-established areas in any large metropolis, Walnut Hills and East Walnut Hills are undergoing revitalization, much of it spurred by proud residents and community leaders. Several notable renovation projects, along with new townhouses and condominiums, are indications of new life for a neighborhood steeped in historic treasures and grand architecture.
Westwood
Cincinnati City Hall
513-352-3243
https://www.cincinnati-oh.gov
Chamber of Commerce
513-579-3100
https://www.cincinnatichamber.com
The long-established neighborhood of Westwood has been home to generations of families who enjoy living and socializing together. Elegant mansions built by wealthy industrialists intermingle with Tudor and traditional-style brick and frame homes for a pleasing mix of architecture along peaceful, clean streets. Recreational amenities include easy access to Mt. Airy Forest and nearby golf courses, although the community center serves as a hub of local activity. Colorful events and celebrations in this area include the Lady of Lourdes Festival. Residents are only 15 minutes from downtown via Interstates 74 or 75 or by public transportation. The airport is a 30-minute drive.
