Better Know a Cincinnati Neighborhood: Clifton (Updated for 2026)

Overview:

Clifton is one of Cincinnati’s most well-known neighborhoods; it has everything from historic buildings and famous restaurants to ESPN coverage of college football and basketball. There is a lot to love about Clifton, whether you are young and single or raising a family.

Cincinnati Public Schools offers several education options right in Clifton: Fairview-Clifton German Language School (PK-6), William Howard Taft Elementary School (PK-6), which focuses on a STEM curriculum, as well as Hughes STEM High School. Hughes also is well known for its beautiful and historic building. For those interested in religious education, the Annunciation Catholic School (K-8) offers a balance of religious education with technological training. Additionally, Cincinnati Junior Academy provides an alternate Christian educational option. Finally, the Clifton area is home to the University of Cincinnati, a popular choice for postsecondary education. The school has an enrollment over 44,000 students, ranks in the top 75 public universities in the country, and has numerous programs ranked in the top 10 of their fields.

As for food and entertainment, the neighborhood is full of local favorites. Options include:

• Biagio’s Bistro – Classic Italian handmade dishes with gourmet desserts and wine.
• Ambar India Restaurant – One of Cincinnati’s most popular Indian restaurants, also in the Clifton gaslight district.
• Skyline Chili in Clifton – A Cincinnati classic, and perhaps the most famous of its many locations.
• Kiki – Izakaya and sushi bar.
• Adriatico’s Pizza – Popular NY style pizzeria.
• Dewey’s Pizza – Popular local pizzeria in a unique setting.
• Whole Bowl – A Portland food truck company that has set up shop in Clifton’s gaslight district. It is the simplest menu you’ll ever find but healthy, delicious, and a bargain. Carry-out only.
• Sitwell’s Act II – A cozy coffeehouse and diner located in the heart of Clifton.

The Cincinnati Zoo is also a classic Cincinnati destination located nearby. Those who are nature-minded may also enjoy the nearby Burnet Woods, a park with hiking trails and a fishing lake as well as a planetarium and various events and activities.

Quick Facts for Renters:

(Updated 5/27/2026)

Population: 9,680
Median Age: 35.1 years (females), 36 years (males)
Median Home Price: $471,260
Median Rent: $1,238
Cost of Living: The cost of living in Clifton is 15% higher than the Cincinnati average.
Average Commute to Downtown: 10-16 minutes

Sources: Area Vibes, City-Data.com,

Photo credit: Midwest New Media, LLC