Let the numbers do the talking.
Cincinnati, OH vs Hilliard, OH
Cincinnati, OH vs Hilliard, OH: What the data shows
Cincinnati, OH is in Cincinnati, OH while Hilliard, OH is in Hilliard, OH — both in the same state. On home prices, Hilliard, OH is the more affordable option at $299,300 median — $88,600 less than Cincinnati, OH's $387,900. WYLT rates Cincinnati, OH as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing — and Hilliard, OH as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing.
Both neighborhoods have similar safety profiles. Cincinnati, OH has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. Hilliard, OH has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Cincinnati, OH has Low flood risk and Hilliard, OH has Low flood risk.
Hilliard, OH is the more walkable neighborhood. Cincinnati, OH scores 15/100 (car-dependent) versus Hilliard, OH's 38/100 (mostly car-dependent). For families weighing school quality, Hilliard, OH has the higher school rating — Cincinnati, OH rates 6/10 and Hilliard, OH rates 6.7/10.
| Category | Cincinnati, OH | Hilliard, OH |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Think twice | Think twice |
| Median Price | $388K | $299K ✓ Lower price |
| Median Rent | $1K ✓ Lower rent | $1K |
| Median Income | $102K | $104K ✓ Higher income |
| Price Volatility | Moderate | Low ✓ More stable |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 15/100 | 38/100 ✓ More walkable |
| Transit Score | Minimal transit | 26/100 ✓ Better transit |
| Bike Score | N/A | 25/100 ✓ More bikeable |
| Commute | 12 min ✓ Shorter commute | 30 min |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | D+ | D+ |
| Violent Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| Property Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| Flood Risk | Low | Low |
| Air Quality | Good ✓ Cleaner air | Moderate |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 6/10 | 6.7/10 ✓ Better schools |
| Best for | FamiliesCommuters to downtownRemote workers with higher income | Families with kidsHigh‑earning commuters to ColumbusHomebuyers seeking solid schools |
Bottom line
Cincinnati offers higher incomes, a short 12‑minute commute to downtown, and solid schools, but it comes with a high home‑price and almost no walkability. Hilliard is cheaper, has slightly better walkability, yet the 30‑minute drive to Columbus and limited amenities make it less convenient for commuters. If you’re a family that can afford the price and value proximity to city work, Cincinnati is the better choice; if you prioritize lower cost and are willing to drive a longer commute, Hilliard provides better value.
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