Exploring the Appeal of Urban Living in Ohio and Indiana

Columbus | Shep McAllister

Ohio and Indiana, prominent Midwestern states, boast several premier locales. Their major cities offer plenty for those who crave the hustle and bustle of an urban lifestyle. Let’s explore the appeal of urban living in Ohio and Indiana.

Several Major Cities to Choose From

Although both Indiana and Ohio have many small- to mid-sized cities, four major cities across these two states serve as true regional powerhouses. 

Indianapolis is Indiana’s bustling capital and largest city. Home to nearly 900,000 residents, Indianapolis features a prominent sports culture and a massive downtown area.

Ohio’s three major cities include Cincinnati, Columbus, and Cleveland. Cincinnati, nestled near the Kentucky border along the Ohio River, is a picturesque city with renowned architecture and a celebrated food scene. Columbus, Ohio’s capital and largest city, is home to over 900,000 residents. With its picturesque public parks and fantastic cultural attractions, Columbus is a perfect place to explore year-round. Also, Cleveland, a historic place along the shores of Lake Erie, is known for its rock-and-roll legacy and scenic waterfront setting. 

Indianapolis | Corbin Mathias

Powerful Economies and Affordability

Residents of major metropolises benefit from abundant job opportunities in thriving economic destinations. And this holds true for the key cities across Ohio and Indiana. But what sets them apart is their ability to uphold affordability while also providing top-notch economic prospects. 

Indianapolis is widely recognized for its prosperous life sciences and pharmaceutical industries. And its powerful finance and industry sectors are also flourishing. Still, as of September 2023, the median home sale price in the city remains remarkably low at just $232,000, according to data from Redfin. 

The industries that define Ohio’s significant cities vary considerably. Yet, despite their economic prowess, all three of these Ohio cities maintain home prices below the national average. 

In Cleveland, prominent manufacturing companies, finance businesses, and insurance empires thrive within the city. 

Columbus has a varied economy with a substantial tech industry, insurance enterprises, and a strong banking sector. 

Cincinnati, the state’s most dominant economy, serves as the headquarters for Fortune 500 companies such as Kroger, Procter & Gamble, and American Financial Group.  

Cincinnati | Rafik Wahba

A Variety of Appealing Attractions

The biggest cities in Ohio and Indiana are lively cultural hotspots, offering attractions that entice visitors from around the world. These cities constantly provide new and exciting experiences, from major races in Indianapolis to concerts at historical venues in Cleveland. 

Indianapolis houses world-class museums and zoos and a downtown area filled with shopping and dining destinations. The city also hosts the world-famous Indy 500 race. 

As the home of The Ohio State University, Columbus attracts millions to attend home football games every fall. Also, Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens offers much to see and do, and scenic riverside hikes along the Scioto River are an idyllic way to spend an afternoon. 

Cleveland is home to excellent museums, including the Cleveland Museum of Art and the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame

Cincinnati also has intriguing museums, such as the Cincinnati Museum Center. Also, it is renowned for offering some of the tastiest and most eclectic dining options in the Midwest. 

Rock & Roll Hall of Fame

If you love the lifestyle in Indiana and Ohio, check out some listings for sale in these states, all priced under $500,000.