Moving to a new city is always a leap of faith. Whether you’re chasing a job, trying to raise a family, or just looking for a change of pace, it helps to know what you’re really getting into. I’m Eric Sztanyo, and not only have I lived in the Greater Cincinnati area for years, but I’ve also helped hundreds of clients relocate here through my real estate team, Team Sztanyo. This post pulls back the curtain on what it’s actually like to move to the Queen City—warts and all.
Here are 13 things I wish I knew before moving to Cincinnati… including some hard truths most people don’t talk about.
1. Cincinnati Is Affordable… But the Wage Gap Is Real
It’s true: Cincinnati’s cost of living is about 7% lower than the national average. Housing, in particular, is incredibly affordable compared to cities like Chicago, Austin, or Nashville. But here’s the catch: wages here can be lower too.
If you’re working remotely or have a job with a national company, you’re in great shape. But if you’re transitioning to a local job—especially in service, education, or creative fields—be ready for a salary adjustment.
2. The Neighborhood Vibes Are Awesome… But It Can Feel Fragmented
Cincinnati feels like 50 small towns stitched together. You’ve got historic Over-the-Rhine, suburban Loveland, hip Mount Lookout, and Northern Kentucky gems like Fort Thomas—all with their own unique vibe.
The downside? It can be hard to know where you belong. There’s no single “downtown” with everything in one place. You might live, work, and worship in totally different pockets of the city. Renting before you buy gives you time to explore and find your people.
3. People Are Friendly… But It Can Be Hard to Break In
Midwest nice is real—people will smile, hold the door, and chat about the weather. But deep friendships? That can take time.
Cincinnati has deep roots. Many locals grew up here, went to the same high school, and still hang out with the same friend group. That can be intimidating as a newcomer. But I’ve seen many clients break through once they plugged into a church, gym, parenting group, or school community.
4. The Weather Will Mess With You
Cincinnati weather is a roller coaster. We get all four seasons—sometimes in the same week. Winters are gray and damp. Summers are humid and sticky. Spring brings brutal allergies. And fall? Fall is absolutely magical.
It’s not a dealbreaker, but it does take some getting used to. Pro tip: invest in a good dehumidifier and keep your Claritin stocked.
5. High Schools Are a Big Deal
When someone in Cincinnati asks where you went to school, they don’t mean college—they mean high school. This question holds cultural weight, and it says a lot about how tight-knit and tradition-rich the city is.
It’s not necessarily a bad thing—but it does reinforce how connected locals are to their roots, and how that culture can feel insular to outsiders.
6. Local Identity Is Strong
Skyline or Gold Star? Graeter’s or UDF? East Side or West Side?
These aren’t just preferences—they’re opinions. Cincinnatians take pride in their hometown institutions, and you’ll quickly find yourself asked to pick a side. It’s fun once you’re in on the joke—but it can also feel like there’s a club you didn’t know you had to join.
7. Northern Kentucky Is Part of the Deal
Don’t overlook Northern Kentucky—especially if you’re moving from out of state. Cities like Fort Thomas, Newport, and Florence are just minutes from downtown and offer great schools, walkable communities, and a slower pace.
Pro tip: many Cincinnatians actually live in Kentucky and commute over the bridge every day. It gives you the best of both worlds.
8. Our Parks and Green Space Are Incredible
Cincinnati is ranked in the top 10 U.S. cities for its park system. With over 5,000 acres of parkland and 70+ hiking trails, this city punches way above its weight in outdoor recreation.
Favorites like Ault Park, Eden Park, and French Park are local treasures, and almost 90% of city residents live within walking distance of green space.
9. The Real Estate Market Is Hot (But Not Crazy)
As of 2024, Zillow ranked Cincinnati as one of the top 5 hottest real estate markets in the country. Homes sell quickly, and multiple offers are common—but it’s not unaffordable.
Compared to markets like Nashville or Charlotte, Cincinnati is still a great value. If you’re a first-time buyer or relocating from a higher-cost area, you’ll be pleasantly surprised.
Side note: my real estate team, Team Sztanyo, specializes in helping buyers navigate this competitive market. Whether you’re local or relocating, we’ve got your back.
10. It’s Easy to Get Around… But Not Always on Foot
Cincinnati’s traffic is manageable, and most commutes are under 30 minutes. That’s a huge plus. But public transportation is limited, and not all neighborhoods are walkable.
This is definitely a car city, so plan on driving. That said, neighborhoods like OTR, Hyde Park, and parts of Northern Kentucky are surprisingly pedestrian-friendly.
11. You Can’t Ignore the Chili… But You Don’t Have To Love It
Cincinnati-style chili is… a thing. Whether it’s Skyline or Gold Star, people here are passionate about their coneys and 3-ways. But you’re not required to like it to be a local.
I’ve seen it divide families. Okay, not really—but kind of. Just try it once, then form your own opinion. (And if you like jalapeño cheese on top… welcome to the club.)
12. There’s a Festival for Everything
Cincinnati knows how to celebrate. From Oktoberfest Zinzinnati to the Flying Pig Marathon, Blink, Taste of Cincinnati, and the Festival of Lights—there’s always something happening.
These events are more than just fun—they’re how people connect. Don’t sit them out. Show up, even if you don’t know anyone yet.
13. You Can Make It Your Own
This city has grit. It’s welcoming, loyal, and unpretentious. But your experience here is what you make it. The more you lean in—explore neighborhoods, meet people, try new things—the more Cincinnati will feel like home.
So don’t compare it to where you came from. Just be here. And give it time. Most of the people I’ve helped move here? They don’t want to leave.
Thinking about making a move? Reach out to Team Sztanyo — we’re your local real estate experts for Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky. We’ll help you find the right neighborhood, the right home, and the right community to put down roots.
Let’s move forward together.