Six Ohio cities have been named the best places to live in the United States from 2025 to 2026, according to a recent U.S. News & World Report ranking.
Of the 150 major U.S. cities on the list, six Ohio cities were chosen based on the ranking’s methodology, including the city’s quality of life, affordability, crime rate, and job market. . The publication also used data from sources such as the U.S. Census Bureau, FBI, U.S. Department of Labor, and other internal resources to create the list of best cities.
Here are the rankings for each city in Ohio:
Columbus leads Ohio cities at No. 61
Columbus has a population of 911,836 and is ranked 61st as the best place to live in the United States.
The publication praised the city’s arts and entertainment scene, home of the Ohio State Buckeyes, as well as the city’s love for college football. According to U.S. News, Arch City also ranks 47th among the best places to retire in the United States.
Toledo ranks 98th in the ranking of most livable cities.
Ranked 98th in the ranking, Toledo attracts attention among tourists and residents alike due to its history and charm.
From Toledo’s glassmaking roots to its tourist attractions, the Glass City’s low cost of living and outdoor activities demonstrate just how much this city has to offer. Our 280,528 residents enjoy nearby attractions such as Toledo Museum of Art, Metroparks Toledo, and Toledo Zoo & Aquarium.
Cincinnati ranked #100 as a top city in the United States
Whether you’re indulging in the famous Skyline Chili or rooting for the Cincinnati Bengals, Cincy’s lively scene offers more than 300,000 residents plenty to do.
In addition to Cincinnati’s German heritage, the publication also mentions the local beer scene and live music. Celebrity sightings are not uncommon (Skyline enthusiast Josh Hutcherson is from near Union, Kentucky). U.S. News notes that although home prices are among the highest in the state, Cincinnati is fairly affordable compared to other metropolitan areas (the cost of living is lower than the national average).
Dayton is ranked 101st best city to live in
Following Cincinnati is Dayton, ranked 101st on the list of the best places to live in the United States.
According to U.S. News, the cost of living in Dayton is lower than the national average, meaning residents spend less on things like groceries and health care. Attractions and entertainment options abound, including live music, outdoor activities, and sporting events such as college basketball, making it an attractive place to live. This city has a population of 148,668.
Youngstown ranks 132nd for best place to live.
Filled with restaurants and outdoor attractions, as well as wineries, craft breweries, and live entertainment, Youngstown has undergone considerable change in recent years.
According to U.S. News, Youngstown’s 62,364 residents have a much lower cost of living than the national average, meaning they spend less on housing, utilities, food and health care. The publication states that Youngstown is in the midst of a “cultural and economic renaissance,” as its history of steel production, cultural landscape, and landmarks make it an ideal place to settle. This is the place.
Cleveland ranks 141st in “Best Places to Live”
Cleveland rounds out the list of Ohio cities featured in our roundup of the best cities. Said to be experiencing growth and revitalization, the city’s 373,877 residents enjoy affordable housing costs below the national median.
The Cleveland Cavaliers, Cleveland Browns, and Cleveland Guardians offer sports fans a wealth of events throughout the year. The city also has many live entertainment venues and easy access to outdoor adventures in Cuyahoga Valley National Park and along Lake Erie.
