Hamilton, OH vs. Cincinnati, OH: Cost of Living Comparison (2025)
Which city gives you more for your money – Hamilton or Cincinnati? This article provides a cost of living comparison to help families relocating, professionals choosing between job offers, or anyone comparing the real costs of living in these two Ohio cities in 2025.
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1. Housing Costs
Housing is typically the biggest factor in cost of living. Here’s how Hamilton and Cincinnati compare for common housing options:
| Housing Type | Hamilton | Cincinnati |
|---|---|---|
| Median 2BR Apartment Rent | $950 | $1,250 |
| Median 3BR House Price | $220,000 | $325,000 |
🏆 Winner: Hamilton. Housing costs are significantly lower in Hamilton compared to Cincinnati, with potential savings of $300+ per month on rent and over $100K on home prices.
2. Utilities and Energy Costs
Utility costs also impact monthly budgets. In Ohio cities of similar size, expect to pay around:
- Electricity: $120-150/month
- Water/Sewer/Trash: $60-90/month
- Natural Gas: $40-80/month (higher in winter)
🏆 Winner: Tie. Utility rates are regulated and fairly consistent across the region.
3. Groceries and Daily Expenses
For groceries and everyday items, costs are comparable between Hamilton and Cincinnati. Budget around $300-400 per person monthly for food. Restaurant prices are also similar.
🏆 Winner: Tie. No major cost differences for groceries and daily spending.
4. Taxes and Fees
Ohio’s state income tax ranges from 2.85% to 3.99%. Property taxes and city-specific fees can vary:
- Hamilton property tax rate: 1.2% (lower)
- Cincinnati property tax rate: 1.6% (higher)
- Cincinnati charges a 2.1% city income tax
🏆 Winner: Hamilton. Lower property taxes and no additional city income tax give Hamilton the edge.
5. Cost Summary Table
| Category | Hamilton | Cincinnati |
|---|---|---|
| Housing (3BR home) | $1,100 | $1,625 |
| Utilities | $250 | $250 |
| Groceries (2 people) | $600 | $600 |
| Transportation | $200 | $200 |
| Taxes (3.5% effective) | $350 | $450 |
| Miscellaneous | $400 | $400 |
| Estimated Monthly Total | $2,900 | $3,525 |
6. Lifestyle Fit
Cost is just one factor when choosing where to live. Also consider:
- Hamilton offers more affordable space and a small-town feel
- Cincinnati has more amenities, jobs, and public transit
Cincinnati averages 5°F colder in January than Hamilton, but summer temps are similar.
7. FAQ
Q: Is Hamilton more affordable than Cincinnati?
A: Yes, the cost of living is about 18% lower in Hamilton, mainly due to cheaper housing.
Q: Which city has lower rent?
A: Hamilton has lower apartment rents on average, by roughly $200-300 per month.
Q: Where is it cheaper to buy a home?
A: Buying a home is more affordable in Hamilton, with median prices over $100K less than Cincinnati.
8. Conclusion
While both great Ohio cities, Hamilton offers a meaningfully lower cost of living than Cincinnati, especially for housing. A household moving from Cincinnati to Hamilton might save $400/month on housing alone.
Budget-conscious families, remote workers, and those seeking more space for their dollar may prefer Hamilton. Cincinnati remains appealing for its amenities, jobs, and transit, for those able to afford the premium.
Considering other Ohio cities? Check out our guide to the best moving options to get there.