Moving from New York to Ohio

1. Take Advantage of Ohio’s Cost of Living

Ohio has a cost of living index of 82.6, which is lower than the national average of 100 and much lower than New York’s 120.5. Ohio’s median home price is $140,700, which is also far below the nation’s average of $231.200. However, the state’s low cost of living is balanced out by its high taxes, although they are still slightly lower than New York’s. Ohio ranks 44th in the country in income tax, 39th in property tax, and 32nd in sales and excise taxes. You can save money on your car, though, as Ohio is first in the nation for vehicle tax.

2. Ohio has a Steady Economy

As the 10th most densely populated state in the U.S. with one of the lowest growth rates, the Buckeye State ranks near the middle of the country in terms of poverty and unemployment. Its rate of 4.7% has been on the decline for the last decade and is well under the national rate of 6%. Employment prospects are looking solid for the future, with several Fortune 500 companies are based in Ohio, including Procter & Gamble, Marathon Petroleum, Nationwide Insurance, Macy’s, and Progressive Insurance.

3. Experience Four Seasons

If you’re leaving New York in search of a warmer climate, Ohio is likely to disappoint you. Winters can be bitter, with fierce blizzards and major snow events, particularly if you are close to Lake Erie. On the opposite end of the calendar, summers are often hot and humid with a great deal of rain and frequent storms. You will still experience all four seasons, though, with mild springs and colorful winters across the state.

5. Ohio is Roller Coaster Heaven

Adrenaline junkies rejoice: Ohio is home to two major theme parks with some killer thrill rides. Kings Island’s 364 acres in Mason house more than 80 rides, including The Beast, which the “Guinness Book of World Records” lists as the world’s longest wooden roller coaster. Sandusky’s Cedar Point opened in 1870 on the banks of Lake Erie, making it the second oldest amusement park in the country. Known as the “Roller Coaster Capital of the World,” the park boasts eighteen world-class roller coasters and a larger assortment of rides than anywhere else.

6. You’ll Find Lots of Rabid Sports Fans

Sports are big in Ohio, and Cleveland Browns supporters in particular are notorious for their crazy behavior. A special section in the stadium is designated as the “Dawg Pound,” reserved for the most energetic (and traditionally most intoxicated) fans. Much to the dismay of visiting teams, these rowdy fans have been known to throw eggs, batteries and dog food at their opponents. Fortunately the fan behavior has improved over the years, but their diehard support has remained intense, as has support for the other NFL franchise, the Cincinnati Bengals. Other notable sports in the state include professional baseball, basketball, hockey, and soccer.

9. Ohio has a Large Amish Population

There are approximately 70,000 members of the Amish community living in Ohio, making up the largest in the world. Visitors traveling the 160 miles of Amish Country Byway are charmed by the simple culture as horses and buggies drive by. Stop for a homemade meal at a local restaurant, or visit one of the many Amish markets known for their handmade treasures, including artisan cheese and chocolate and high-quality woodcraft.

10. Ohio has a Lack of Diversity

Coming from the cultural and ethnic diversity of New York, Ohio will seem very homogenous. Recently ranked as one of the ten least diverse states in the country, the racial makeup is 80% white. Six percent of Ohioans speak a language other than English in the home. The state encourages the growth of diverse populations, and is proud to have one of the highest concentrations of Somali immigrants in the country and a 40% increase in Hispanic residents over the last twenty years.