Expert Advice For Moving to Ohio

As the birthplace of aviation, eight US presidents, several amazing cities, and a growing economy, Ohio is an underrated gem of a state. It offers a cheap cost of living, four beautiful seasons, and Midwestern charm. These attractive attributes draw folks of all ages and backgrounds to live in Ohio. If you’re looking for a great place to build your career, raise a family, or retire, the “Heart of it All” is a prime central location.

Considering a move to Ohio? We’re here to help. Great Guys Moving has put together this helpful relocation guide:

1. Things to Consider Before Moving to OH
2. Top Places to Live in the State
3. Interstate Moving Checklist
4. Great Guys Moving Services

When you’re ready, we make it easy & affordable to book top-rated Ohio moving companies. Just click below to get your free moving quotes. It’s that simple!

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Living in Ohio: What to Know Before Moving to Ohio

Living in Ohio can be especially convenient for business and travel. The state is a day’s drive to within 50% of the population in the continental US. With 11,718,500 million residents, Ohio is the 10th most densely populated state but has one of the lowest growth rates of all states. At 44,825 square miles, Ohio is the 34th largest state in the country. If you’re planning to move to the Buckeye State, learn about some of its pros and cons before relocating.

Pros and Cons of Living in Ohio

Pros: 

• Cost of living: Offering fantastic affordability in cities like Columbus and Cincinnati, Ohio, is one of the top three states for cheap housing.
• Natural beauty: From the shores of Lake Erie to the Appalachian Mountains, plus four distinct seasons, there are various opportunities to enjoy nature.
• Evolving economy: Known for manufacturing, it has seen a boom in the creative and tech industries. This growth has attracted many artists, entrepreneurs, and young professionals.
• Gorgeous autumn: Looking for colorful fall foliage? Ohioans and visitors alike are treated to one of the most beautiful autumn foliage shows in the country.
• Roller coasters: Along with King Island and Cedar Point, dubbed “The Roller Coaster Capital of the World,” the state is home to many celebrated amusement parks.
• One of the safest states from natural disasters: When it comes to natural catastrophes like hurricanes and earthquakes, Ohio is one of the top five safest states in the US.
• Amish: The Buckeye State has the largest Amish population in the world. Ohio’s Amish Country is a big draw for tourists who want to understand their lifestyle.

Cons:

• Cold winters: If you’re coming from a warmer climate, be prepared. Winters can be brutal, filled with intense blizzards and heavy snowfall, especially near Lake Erie.
• Intense summers: On the other end of the spectrum, summers are known to be extremely hot and humid. Also, expect a lot of rain and stormy weather.
• Battleground state: As a swing state, Ohio floods with political ads, politicians, and the attention of the nation during elections. Locals aren’t exactly thrilled during election cycles.
• Sports culture: Sports fans here can be unruly and even dangerous, which has earned them the reputation of being some of the nation’s most bothersome fans.
• Low ethnic diversity: Comprised of over 80% white and 12% black, WalletHub recently ranked Ohio as one of the top 10 least diverse states in the country.
• Weird laws: As with many other states, Ohio has no shortage of bizarre laws. For instance, killing a housefly without a license within 160 feet of a church could get you arrested.

Is Ohio a Good Place to Live?

Ohio is a wonderful place to live thanks to its low cost of living and affordable housing, a growing job market, and great educational institutions. Originally known as a manufacturing hub, Ohio has seen fast growth in the technology and medical sectors in more recent years. The Buckey State’s transitioning job market provides plenty of opportunities for young professionals, and the state’s affordability makes it a great place for singles and families alike to put down roots.

Tax Rates

• Property Tax: 1.57%. Ohio has the 13th highest effective real-estate tax in America.
• Sales Tax: 5.75%. Combined with local taxes (0–2.25%), it ranges between 5.75 – 8%.
• State Income Tax: 0–5%. The state has a progressive tax system with eight brackets.

Housing Market

To Rent or Buy? As one of the top three most affordable states for housing, Ohio offers low home prices, along with being among the top 20 states with the lowest overall cost of living. Zillow reports a ‘very hot’ housing market as of summer, 2019, with home prices rising 5.3% over the past year. About 68% of Ohioans own their homes; however the majority of residents rent in larger cities such as Cleveland, Columbus, and Cincinnati.

• Median Home Value: $140,400
• Median Rental Expense: $663 for a one-bedroom, $852 for a two-bedroom

Cheapest Places to Live in Ohio:  For the budget-conscious, the most affordable communities in Ohio include Bellevue, Hubbard, Martins, Union, Toronto, Englewood, Van Wert, Kenton, Wapakoneta, and Clayton.

Cost of Living

According to the Cost of Living in Ohio by BestPlaces, Ohio has a cost of living index of 87.7. This index is considerably lower than the nationwide average index of 100.

Using EPI’s Family Budget Calculator, we can compare the average monthly living expenses in two Ohio cities. We’ll use a family of four with two adults + two children for the examples.

Columbus:

• Housing = $823
• Food = $809
• Childcare = $930
• Transportation = $1,083
• Healthcare = $1,026
• Other necessities = $658
• Taxes = $788

Grand total = $6,117 per month or $73,402 per year

Cincinnati:

• Housing = $845
• Food = $724
• Childcare = $1,259
• Transportation = $1,172
• Healthcare = $882
• Other necessities = $633
• Taxes = $769

Grand total = $6,284 per month or $75,414 per year

Weather & Natural Disasters

Ohio lies in the humid continental zone, which leads to cold winters and hot, humid summers. The southern portion of the state experiences overall milder temperatures.

Climate Statistics:

• Average rainfall – 40 inches
• Average snowfall – 28 to 56 inches
• Sunshine – 173 sunny days
• Summer high – 84°F (July)
• Winter low – 20°F (January)

Natural Disaster Threats & Risks:

• Ice and snowstorms
• Tornadoes
• Flooding
• Forest Fires
• Earthquakes

According to The 10 States Safest from Natural Disasters by WorldAtlas, Ohio is the fifth safest state in the United States. Despite being near Tornado Alley, the state is not prone to substantially destructive twisters. Nonetheless, it’s smart to prepare for threats and risks.

Economy & Job Market

According to Economy Rankings by US News & World Report, the state of Ohio ranks #38/50 overall. This score depends on several subcategories: business environment (#30), employment (#42), and growth (#21). The state’s GDP is almost $646 billion, and the median income is approximately $30,000.

Top Industries:

• Agriculture
• Manufacturing
• Construction
• Retail
• Mining
• Business & Personal Services
• Real Estate
• Transportation
• Entertainment
• Consulting
• Healthcare
• Food Service

Top Ten Employers:

1. Wal-Mart Stores, Inc
2. Cleveland Clinic Foundation
3. Kroger Co
4. Ohio State University
5. Mercy Health
6. Wright-Patterson Air Force Base
7. University Hospitals Health Systems, Inc
8. Ohio Health
9. JP Morgan Chase & Co
10. Giant Eagle, Inc

Looking for work in Ohio? Here are some handy resources:

• Ohio.gov page: Jobs – Working in Ohio
• Job search: Indeed, LinkedIn, CollegeRecruiter, CareerBuilder
• Resume help: Monster, TopResume, ResumeRobin

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Traffic and Transportation

• Bus: Greyhound and public bus systems
• Train: freight railroad service
• Rail: Amtrak and light rail
• Air: five international airports
• Personal vehicle
• Bicycle Sharing System, such as the Cincinnati Red Bike
• Streetcar
• Taxi service, Rideshare, Car rental

Primary Interstate Highways:

• Interstate 70 runs west to Indianapolis and east to Pittsburgh, right through Columbus
• Interstate 71 runs southwest to Cincinnati and northeast to Cleveland, right through Columbus
• Interstate 75 runs north from Dayton to Toledo and up to Detroit, Michigan
• Interstate 77 runs north-south in the eastern part of the state from Akron to Charleston, WV
• Interstate 90 runs east-west just south of Lake Erie, connecting Toledo in the west to Buffalo, NY in the east

Ohio has 1,572 miles of interstate highway owned and maintained by the state via the Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT). According to WalletHub, Ohio is ranked the 10th best overall city of its size for traffic. Breakdown of driving subcategories: 7th best for the cost of ownership & maintenance, 29th best for traffic & infrastructure, 36th best for safety, and 8th best for access to vehicles & maintenance. Cyclists can enjoy the well-developed bicycle route network, many of which follow rail trails.

Things to Do

Tourist Destinations: Looking for the top places to visit in Ohio?

• Cleveland Museum of Art, world-renowned for its collection
• The Wright Brothers National Memorial, in commemoration of the “fathers of flight.”
• Cedar Point, which is the proclaimed “Roller Coaster Capital of the World”
• Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, a must for music lovers
• National Underground Railroad Freedom Center, offering the history and stories of abolitionists and the slaves who escaped to the north

Food & Drink: Ohio is a foodie’s paradise with great restaurants, diners, bakeries, breweries, bars, and more.

• Top ‘all-you-can-eat’: Mrs. Yoder’s Kitchen in Mount Hope
• Top bar: The Velvet Tango Room in Cleveland.
• Top chili: Camp Washington in Cincinnati
• Top brewery: Columbus Brewing Company Bodhi in Columbus
• Top brunch: Blue Door Café & Bakery in Cuyahoga Falls
• Top burger: B Spot Burgers in several locations
• Top chocolate shop: Esther Price Candies in several locations
• Top coffee shop: Coffee Emporium in Cincinnati
• Top doughnuts: Buckeye Donuts in Columbus.

Museums: There’re a plethora of museums in the Buckeye State.

• Specialty museums: Nat’l Museum of the US Air Force, Wagner-Hagans Auto Museum, and Warther Museum
• History Museums: Rutherford B. Hayes Presidential Library & Museums, Amish & Mennonite Heritage Center, Liberty Aviation Museum, and Maltz Museum of Jewish Heritage
• Art Museums: Cleveland Museum of Art, Toledo Museum of Art, The Butler Institute of American Art, and Cincinnati Art Museum

State Parks: Looking to get back in touch with nature? Check out Ohio’s top state parks:

• Hocking Hills State Park, home to famous waterfalls, cliffs, and gorges
• Mohican State Park, featuring awesome hiking trails and the Clear Fork Gorge
• Hopewell Culture National Historical Park, known for the Mound City Group reconstructed mounds;
• Maumee Bay State Park, various outdoor and water activities
• Geneva State Park, offering nice hiking trails, marina, and beach

Sights & Landmarks: Want to explore Ohio’s best landmarks? Be sure to visit:

• Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens, former home of F.A. Seiberling
• Carillon Historical Park, which showcases the Wright Brothers’ first practical airplane
• Mill Creek Park, the state’s first park district
• Cathedral Basilica of the Assumption, a gothic cathedral similar in design to Notre Dame
• Spring Grove Cemetery & Arboretum, the third largest cemetery in the United States, located in Cincinnati

Nightlife: Check out these top choices for a fun night out with friends or that special someone.

• Bars & clubs: Crafted Cocktail Co in Wadsworth, MadTree Brewing in Cincinnati, House of Blues Cleveland in Cincinnati, Yellow Springs Brewery in Yellow Springs, and 16-Bit Bar + Arcade in Cincinnati
• Comedy clubs: Funny Bone Comedy Club in Columbus, and Hilarities Comedy Club in Cleveland
• Wine bars: Hanover Winery in Hamilton, The Milan Wine Post in Milan, and Olde Wine Cellar in Olmsted Falls

Fun & Games: Looking for fun for all ages?

• Games & entertainment centers: Houdini’s Room Escape  in Cincinnati, EnterTRAINment Junction in West Chester, and Richland Carrousel Park in Mansfield
• Movie theaters: Great Lakes Science Center in Cleveland, Cedar Lee Cinema in Cleveland Heights, and Marcus Crosswoods Cinema in Columbus 
• Mini golf: Alien Vacation Mini Golf Attraction in Medina, Sluggers & Putters Amusement Park in Canal Fulton, and Goofy Golf in Sandusky

Water & Amusement Parks: Ohio is home to the “Roller Coaster Capital of the World” in Sandusky, which offers renowned theme parks and water parks.

• Top theme parks: Tuscora Park in New Philadelphia; Cedar Point in Sandusky; Kings Island, the largest park in the Midwest, located in Mason; and Ghostly Manor Thrill Center in Sandusky
• Top water parks: Cedar Point in Sandusky, Coney Island in Cincinnati, Kalahari Waterparks in Sandusky, Zoombezi Bay in Powell, and Castaway Bay Waterpark in Sandusky

Zoos & Aquariums: Ohio is home to several wonderful aquariums and zoos.

• Aquariums: Columbus Zoo & Aquarium in Powell, and Greater Cleveland Aquarium in Cleveland
• Zoos: Columbus Zoo & Aquarium in Powell, Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden in Cincinnati, Toledo Zoo in Toledo, Cleveland Metroparks Zoo in Cleveland, Akron Zoo in Akron, Lagoon Deer Park in Sandusky, African Safari Wildlife Park in Port Clinton, Wagon Trails Animal Park in Vienna, and Butterfly House in Whitehouse

Cool & Unusual: Interested in something different? Check out:

• American Sign Museum, a collection of Ohio’s most colorful and quirky signs, located in Cincinnati
• Crystal Cave, the largest geode known to mankind, found in Put-In-Bay
• The Great Serpent Mound, world’s largest earthwork effigy, situated in Peebles
• The Haserot Angel, a statue that appears to weep black tears, found in Cleveland’s Lakeview Cemetery
• The Cincinnati Subway, an abandoned relic in Cincy

Schools and Universities

According to Geographic Disparity: States with the Best (and Worst) Schools by USA Today, Ohio is ranked #22 in the country based on several subcategories, including high school graduation rate and public school spending.

Along with several private and public institutions, the state is home to one of the largest universities in America, Ohio State University – Columbus. Here are the top schools in Ohio:

Top OH Colleges:

1. Case Western Reserve University (Cleveland)
2. Ohio State University – Columbus (Columbus)
3. Miami University-Oxford (Oxford)
4. University of Dayton (Dayton)
5. University of Cincinnati (Cincinnati)
6. Ohio University (Athens)
7. Kent State University (Kent)
8. Bowling Green State University (Bowling Green)
9. Kenyon College (Gambier)
10. Oberlin College (Oberlin)

Top OH Public School Districts:

1. Solon City School District, Solon
2. Indian Hill Exempted Village School District, Cincinnati
3. Beachwood City School District, Beachwood
4. Wyoming City Schools, Wyoming
5. Mason City School District, Mason
6. Dublin City School District, Dublin
7. Madeira City School District, Cincinnati
8. Ottawa Hills Local School District, Toledo
9. Olentangy Local School District, Lewis Center
10. Sycamore Community School District, Camas

How to Become an Ohio Resident

To become an official resident of Ohio, you must move to the state and satisfy one of the following: buy a home, sign a lease, take a job, or enroll your child in an Ohio school. Ohio utilizes two fact-determinative tests to verify residency: a contact-period test and a domicile test. To become eligible for in-state tuition, you must establish domicile in Ohio for at least 12 months.

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Moving to Ohio DMV

Acquiring a new driver’s license:

After moving to the state, new residents have 30 days to get a driver’s license.

Steps to convert to an Ohio license:

1. Establish Ohio residency
2. Visit a deputy registrar license agency
3. Provide proof: full legal name, date of birth, legal presence in the United States, social security number, and Ohio street address
4. Pass vision screening
5. If the license is expired, pass knowledge and road tests
6. Have photo taken
7. Pay applicable licensing fees
8. Wait for the license to arrive by mail (7 to 10 days)

Vehicle registration:

New residents must obtain Ohio title and plates for their out-of-state vehicle within 30 days. First, you must get an OH driver’s license. Next, visit a deputy registrar license agency. Present the following: 1) Ohio Certificate of Title or Memorandum of Title; 2) Ohio driver’s license, state ID or social security number; 3) Tax ID number for business vehicles; 4) Lease and Power of Attorney documents, if applicable; 5) E-Check certificate, if applicable. Finally, fill out the application and pay fees.

To qualify to vote, you must be:

1. A United States citizen
2. A resident of Ohio for at least 30 days before the election
3. 18 years of age or older on election day
4. Not incarcerated for a felony conviction
5. Not declared incompetent by a probate court
6. Not permanently disenfranchised for violating election laws

Voter registration in the state of Ohio must be completed at least 28 days before election day. The state allows no-excuse early voting, and all Ohio voters are eligible for absentee voting. For more information, visit Ballotpedia’s Voting in Ohio page.

*Note: An Ohio felon has their voting rights restored upon completion of prison sentence.

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Best Places to Live in Ohio

Akron

Population: 198,000
Median Home Value: $69,600
Region: Northern Ohio

We start our tour of Ohio in Akron. Birthplace of NBA basketball superstar Lebron James, the city of nearly 200,000 is the fifth largest in Ohio. It carries the nickname of the “Rubber Capital of the World,” but this fantastic city is so much more than just a center of rubber and tire manufacturing.

As the home of the University of Akron, one of the best universities in the Midwest, and a top place for first-time homebuyers in the United States, Akron is a highly affordable city that offers many educational, cultural, and employment opportunities. Known as an industrial center, the city has been made a Tree City USA by the Arbor Day Foundation. Also, Akron is one of a handful of cities that claim the title of being the birthplace of the hamburger, thanks to the Menches Brothers back in 1885.

• Top public schools: Fort Island Primary Elementary School, Revere Middle School, Copley High School, Revere High School, and Bath Elementary School
• Top private schools: Our Lady of the Elms, Archbishop Hoban High School, St. Vincent-St. Mary High School, St. Sebastian Parish School, and St. Vincent Elementary School
• Top colleges: University of Akron, Herzing University – Akron, Akron School of Practical Nursing, and Gerbers Akron Beauty School
• Top neighborhoods: Highland Square, Northwest, Fairlawn Heights, Wallhaven, Firestone Park, Merriman Valley, Ellet, Goodyear Heights, North Hill, and West Akron

Offering unbelievably low housing prices, even by Ohio standards, and high quality of life, Akron is filled with myriad opportunities for students, young professionals, families, and everyone in between.

Oberlin

Population: 8,300
Median Home Value: $135,200
Region: Northern Ohio

Heading northwest of Akron, we land in Oberlin. The Northern Ohio city is in Lorain County, just south of Lake Erie. As the birthplace of the Hall-Héroult process for smelting aluminum and the Anti-Saloon League which lobbied for prohibition, Oberlin has transformed into a diverse, open-minded college town. 56% of residents own their homes, and the public schools are above average.

Home to Oberlin College, currently ranked #33 in National Liberal Arts Colleges in America by US News, the City of Oberlin offers a charming college-town atmosphere geared toward liberal arts majors and young professionals. The college and town are inseparable, and this has resulted in an appealing collection of stellar entertainment – especially music, cute shops, locally-sourced food, and historic architecture. If you have a progressive mindset, this is the Ohio city for you.

Top public schools serving Oberlin include Oberlin High School, Prospect Elementary School, Langston Middle School, and Eastwood Elementary School. As for higher education, Oberlin is home to Oberlin College and Lorain County Joint Vocational School.

With a decidedly younger, more progressive pulse, Oberlin is a great place to live for those looking for a unique mix of down-to-earth, small-community vibe and cerebral, sophisticated energy.

Columbus

Population: 879,000
Median Home Value: $157,500
Region: Central Ohio

Heading to Central Ohio, we make our first stop in Columbus, smack-dab in the middle of the state in Franklin County. As the most populous city in Ohio, Columbus serves as the state capital. This booming Midwestern metropolis might sometimes be overlooked, especially when comparing “major” cities, but what it has to offer may greatly surprise most outsiders.

If you’re a creative person looking for the ideal city to build your dreams, Columbus may be exactly what you have in mind. Columbus offers a low cost of living, diverse arts and culture, and a thriving job market along with a premier foodie scene, sports teams, shopping, nightlife, and 50+ breweries. The Arch City, named for the many wooden arches that illuminated High Street at the turn of the 20th century, is giving cities like NYC and Los Angeles a run for their money.

• Top public schools: Dublin Coffman High School, New Albany High School, Upper Arlington High School,  Orange High School, and Berkshire Middle School
• Top private schools:  St. Francis de Sales High School, Bishop Hartley High School, Columbus Torah Academy, Bishop Watterson High School, and Tree of Life Christian School
• Top colleges: The Ohio State University, Chamberlain College of Nursing – Columbus, Columbus College of Art & Design, Bradford School – Columbus, and Capital University
• Top neighborhoods: Clintonville, Northwest Columbus, Far North, Olentangy West, Glen Echo, Arena District, Northland, Short North Arts District, Italian Village, Schumacher Place, and German Village

If you’re looking for the most creative city in Ohio, you’ve found it in Columbus. Coupled with a highly reasonable cost of living, you’ll be hard-pressed to find a better big city than this hidden gem.

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Dublin

Population: 47,600
Median Home Value: $399,800
Region: Central Ohio

As a top suburb of Columbus, Dublin is a friendly and lively city of fewer than 50,000 residents situated in Delaware, Franklin, and Union counties. 77% of residents are homeowners, and the public schools are highly rated.

As a welcoming and highly desirable Columbus suburb, Dublin checks a lot of boxes when it comes to amenities, neighborhoods, and more. With a plethora of parks, shops, bars, and restaurants, along with Downtown Dublin and Historic Dublin, Dublin presents a mix of hip and historic. If you’re looking for an excursion outside the community, Easton Town Center and Downtown Columbus are only 20 minutes or so away. Simply put, it’s a perfect place to raise a family or build your career as a young professional.

Top public schools serving Dublin include Dublin Jerome High School, Dublin Coffman High School, Deer Run Elementary School, Wyandot Elementary School, and Henry Karrer Middle School. Looking for private academics? Check out St. Brigid of Kildare Elementary School, Prep Academy Schools Dublin, Joyland Preschool and Childcare, Primrose School of Dublin, and Dublin Learning Academy.

Though housing is more expensive here – it has the highest median home value on our list of top places to live in Ohio – Dublin nonetheless is the #1 place to raise a family in Franklin County and provides a convenient commute to the City of Columbus.

Powell

Population: 13,200
Median Home Value: $378,000
Region: Central Ohio

As the top place to raise a family in the Columbus area, Powell is arguably the best suburb to live in the Columbus area. Possessing small-town values and modern amenities, the city prides itself on being one of Ohio’s best communities. 96% of residents own their homes, and public schools are highly ranked.

From the Columbus Zoo & Aquarium to Zoombezi Bay and the Powell Liberty Antique Mall, there are numerous family-friendly activities. Again, as with Dublin, housing prices are much higher than other parts of the state, but you get what you pay for here. Although it has a reputation for being “stuck up,” the small city offers a close-knit community, substantial amenities, and proximity to everything the Columbus metro area has to offer.

Top public schools are Olentangy Liberty High School, Scioto Ridge Elementary School, Tyler Run Elementary School, Olentangy Liberty Middle School, and Indian Springs Elementary School. In search of private education? Consider Primrose School of Golf Village and Enchanted Care Kids Campus.

Looking for the top suburban area in Columbus, OH? Providing a variety of residential housing choices and excellent K–12 schools, Powell should be at the top of your list.

Cincinnati

Population: 301,000
Median Home Value: $144,600
Region: Southern Ohio

The final leg of our tour takes us to Southern Ohio. As the third-largest in the state, The Queen City, also known as Cincy, The Blue Chip City, and The Nati, among many other nicknames, is considered the fastest-growing economic force in the Midwest. It’s also beautiful to boot!

Offering neighborhoods of every type and a booming job market, Cincinnati is  ranked a top 50 place to live in the United States. Along with its world-famous chili, Cincy is also a foodie and beer lover’s paradise. If you’re looking for a break from urban life, the California Woods Nature Preserve has 113+ acres of forested hiking trails and an assortment of plants and wildlife to explore. If sports are more your thing, you’ll be happy to know the city is home to several college sports teams and three professional sports teams.

• Top public schools: Walnut Hills High School, Mariemont Elementary School, Turpin High School, Anderson High School, and Mercer Elementary School
• Top private schools: The Seven Hills School, The Summit Country Day School, Saint Ursula Academy, Elder High School, and Archbishop McNicholas High School
• Top colleges: The University of Cincinnati, Galen College of Nursing – Cincinnati, The Christ College of Nursing & Health Sciences, Union Institute & University, and Xavier University
• Top neighborhoods: Hyde Park, Columbia Tusculum, Mt. Lookout, Downtown, Oakley, East Walnut Hills, Mt. Adams, East End, Pleasant Ridge, Mt. Auburn, Madisonville, CUF, Mt. Washington, and Clifton

As one of America’s most thriving and affordable cities, Cincinnati is known for its stunning landscape, sports teams – go FC Cincinnati, Bengals, and Reds! – and being an overall great place to call home.

Madeira

Population: 9,100
Median Home Value: $318,600
Region: Southern Ohio

Considered by many Ohioans as the #1 suburb in the Cincinnati area, Madeira is a prime location that has great housing options, exceptional schools, and easy access to everything the Cincinnati metro area has to offer. 87% of residents are homeowners, and the public schools are highly rated.

From the year-round Madeira Farmers’ Market to various events that include the Madeira Art Fair and Fourth of July parade & fireworks, there’s always something fun to do for the whole family. Madeira has a hometown vibe, with a thriving business district, charming downtown, and well-maintained properties. On the downside, housing is relatively high, especially for the southern region of the state. It is also low on ethnic diversity. Over 96% of the population is white.

Top public schools serving the Madeira area include Indian Hill High School, Walnut Hills High School, Indian Hills Elementary School, Indian Hill Middle School, and Madeira High School. As for private schooling, Madeira is home to St. Gertrude School.

As one of Cincinnati’s premier communities, Madeira offers a small-town environment perfect for raising kids and commuting to The Queen City.

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Mason

Population: 32,000
Median Home Value: $279,300
Region: Southern Ohio

We end our tour with one of the top Cincy suburbs and the #1 place to live in Warren County: Mason. The city of 32,000 is less than 25 miles north of Cincinnati. 81% of residents own their homes, and the public schools in the local area are exceptional.

Self-proclaimed “a progressive, innovative community,” Mason is home to the Lindner Tennis Center, one of the world’s biggest tennis stadiums, and Kings Island amusement park. It also has a flourishing business community that continues to draw many companies and corporations. Cost of living is higher than the national average, but the area still offers great value compared to many parts of the country.

Top public schools serving Mason are William Mason High School, Mason Middle School, Western Row Elementary School, Mason Intermediate Elementary School, and Kings High School. Top private schools are Royalmont Academy, Mars Hill Academy, St. Susanna Elementary School, Primrose School of Mason, and Adventures in Learning. Mason is also home to Strayer University – Ohio.

Offering lower housing prices than Madeira and other Ohio suburbs, Mason is a smaller city that provides a high quality of life, low crime, and great housing options ideal for putting down your roots.

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How to Move to Ohio

2–3 Months Before Moving Day

• Give yourself ample time: Procrastination isn’t helpful, especially when moving. To make your Ohio relocation a lot more manageable, start planning at least 2 to 3 months before your desired moving date. Trust us; you’ll be glad you didn’t wait until the last minute.
• Book OH moving company: First, compare a handful of movers. Make sure they’re fully licensed and insured. Hire ASAP. Doing so will ensure the best rates and availability. Great Guys makes it super easy and cheap to select outstanding moving services. Click below for free quotes!
• Consider off-season moving: If you don’t require a specific moving date, you might want to look at moving during the non-peak season. This season is typically between October and March. Enjoy lower rates, better availability, and a host of other benefits.
• Notify important parties: Okay, now that you’ve got the ball rolling, it’s time to alert people of your upcoming move. Rent? Give your landlord a heads up early on. Own? Contact a real estate professional for quick sale or rental. Also, don’t forget to tell family, friends, and neighbors.
• Purge your home: This process will save space and money. First, take inventory of your household. Next, one room at a time, sort through items, and decide what you want to keep or discard. Label or place items in piles. Repeat this process in every space.
• Donate, sell, recycle: Now it’s time to unload your discards. You can sell online, throw a garage sale, donate to charity or thrift shops, or recycle unusable stuff.
• Prep kids: The moving process can be super stressful for little ones. Explain what’s happening through playtime or story. Be kind and patient. Also, maintain a routine as much as possible.
• Tour your new home: If possible, plan a visit to your new city or town. See what it has to offer: work, schools, community events, shops, activities, and so on. Make an adventure out of it!

1 Month to Go

• Start packing: If you’re packing on your own, grab plenty of boxes, tape, and other packing supplies. Carefully wrap fragile and valuable possessions. Try not to mix items from different rooms. If you need help, we can connect you with a low-cost packing service.
• Transfer important records: While you’re at it, make sure vital records (medical, school, prescriptions, and so on) transfer to providers in your new community.
• Change your mailing address: Visit your local post office or go online to USPS.com. This transition is a great opportunity to update info for online services, subscription boxes, etc.
• Disconnect and turn on services: Schedule for utilities (including electric, gas, water, garbage, etc.) to be turned off the day after your move. Also, make sure that your new services (including satellite, internet, etc.) will be active by the time you make it to your new home. Be sure to inform new residents of your old home about the disconnect date.

2–4 Weeks Out

• Safeguard kids and pets: Moving day will be crazy, and it’s easy to be distracted. Keep the little ones out of harm’s way by planning playdates, babysitting, or pet care.
• Schedule cleaning services: Deep cleaning does wonders for house showings or making your landlord happy — schedule for cleaners to arrive after the movers have cleared out.
• Look over insurance: You never know when disaster will strike. To be prepared, contact your insurer and moving company. Ask about insurance coverage and options.
• Service your vehicle: Driving your car to Ohio? If so, make sure it’s in tiptop shape. Have it inspected and serviced. Servicing includes an oil change, tire rotation/change, and air conditioning check.
• Schedule pet transport: If you’re not able to take your pet directly with you, plan special transportation. This step also goes for your prized plants, since moving companies cannot take these on the truck.
• Have a moving sale: You may have already thrown a yard or garage sale, but sometimes there’s still stuff leftover. Make a few extra bucks and free up even more space with a sale.
• Celebrate: During this hectic time, make sure to commemorate your move with loved ones. Throw a BBQ or party, plan a group outing, or have one-on-one time. Spread these activities out over a few days or a few weeks, so you have ample time with everyone.

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Moving Week

• Pack essentials: Also known as a first night box, you should fill your essentials box with everything you’ll need for the first 24 to 48 hours at your new home: meds, prescriptions, clothing, snacks, bedding, toys, and so on. Make sure it is easily accessible in your vehicle or moving truck.
• Confirm with movers: Contact your moving company to double-check arrival time and other important details. Also, take this time to ask any questions you may have.
• Double-check travel plans: Flying? Confirm flight times and luggage restrictions. Driving? Look over the vehicle (oil, tires, air conditioning) and double-check driving route.
• Rest up the night before moving day: This will help ensure a fresh start and smooth move. Stay home, relax, eat healthy, hydrate, and get plenty of sleep.

Moving Day

• Meet up with movers: If you can’t be at your old place to connect with your moving crew, ask a friend or family member to meet the movers. Meeting in-person will allow for easy communication of any last-minute instructions or questions.
• Provide snacks: Not required, but it’s a thoughtful gesture to get your move off on the right foot: offer bottled water and a light snack. The crew will be appreciative.
• Perform walkthrough: One last thing – tour your old place one last time. Look out for any overlooked damages, messes, or belongings.

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Quality Moving Services from Ohio Movers

Great Guys Moving finds you top Ohio moving services at unbeatable rates.

Interstate Moves

Anxious about your long-distance move? With the right help, you can breathe a sigh of relief. Leave the complicated logistics to our seasoned interstate movers. Whether you’re moving from a neighboring state or across the country, we can help make your Ohio move a smooth one.

Intrastate & Local Moves

Headed to a suburb of Cleveland? How about the City of Cincinnati? In any case, we have the perfect fit. Enjoy terrific local moving services from pros who know Ohio inside and out. From tiny towns to big cities, our movers are ready to help you enjoy this new chapter.

Hire Trusted Movers

International Moves

From military moving to family relocation, you need someone in your corner you can trust. Great Guys can connect you with just the right help. International movers will guide you through the entire overseas relocation process, from complex paperwork to customs clearance.

Small Load Moves

Just because you don’t have a lot of stuff to move doesn’t mean you don’t deserve a quality moving service. That’s where we come in. We make it super cheap and simple to book small load movers for your small apartment, studio, or college dorm.

Furniture Shipments

Don’t have the time or capability to move your furniture? No problem. Instead of risking injury or damage, leave it to one of our furniture moving companies. Whether you need to move a single bulky item or an entire household, our movers are ready to lend their capable hands.

Piano Transport

Moving to a new venue or home? Either way, you need someone you can count on to carefully transport your piano or organ. Highly skilled piano movers take every precaution. Rest assured that your cherished instrument will arrive at its new destination unscathed and ready to play.

Art & Antiques

From prized collectibles to art galleries, you shouldn’t have to worry about your collection. That’s why we work with only the best in the business. Our group of highly specialized art handlers provides peace of mind with everything from custom crating to skillful carpentry for fine art displays.

Storage-in-Transit

Traveling the globe? Renovating your house? In between places? In any event, you’ll most likely need clean and secure temporary storage. Contact us today to find the perfect short-term storage solution.

Car Shipping

When it’s not practical to drive your family autos to your new Ohio home, you can depend on professional vehicle transport. Car shipping is surprisingly cheap and extremely convenient.

Packing Services

Don’t have the energy, time, or ability to pack all of your stuff? You’re not alone. Let’s be honest, packing sucks. Instead of worrying whether you’ve properly wrapped your valuable or fragile belongings, leave it to our professional packers. From partial packing to full-service packing, they’ve got it covered.

Residential Moves

First of all, congrats on the new home! Now the fun part. Who are you supposed to hire? Before you start aimlessly searching the internet, not knowing which companies are legit and which are scammers, check out how easy we make it to compare and select vetted, insured residential movers.

Commercial and Office Moves

Moving your office or expanding your business? Don’t leave it in the hands of standard movers. Our network has a topnotch office moving company who will successfully relocate any business. Focus on work while experts execute your commercial relocation.

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Need affordable, quality moving services from licensed, insured companies? Request your free Ohio moving estimates today!

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