Better Know a Cincinnati Neighborhood: OTR (Over the Rhine)

Overview

Over the Rhine (OTR) is a small neighborhood just north of downtown Cincinnati.  Famous for its architecture (featured in several movies), artisan shops, restaurants, and bars, it is widely considered one of the most desirable neighborhoods in Cincinnati. Areavibes gives OTR an A+ rating both for amenities and housing.

Education

OTR is adjacent to Downtown Cincinnati and shares all of the same educational opportunities.  In short, OTR is part of the Cincinnati Public School (CPS) system, which grants access to some of the finest schools throughout the city.  Walnut Hills High School is recognized as one of the top schools in the state of Ohio and even ranks nationally.   A variety of educational models are offered within CPS including a virtual school, Montessori, and a German language school. Within OTR is the School for Creative and Performing Arts which is also part of CPS.  It is an award-winning magnet school that was even featured for a season on MTV’s reality series Taking the Stage.  For more on public education in OTR, see Niche’s list.

Recreation

OTR is home to Cincinnati Music Hall which opened in 1878 and is still home to the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra, Cincinnati Ballet, and the Cincinnati Pops Orchestra.  It is a U.S. National Historic Landmark and on the U.S. National Register of Historic Places.  Just behind Music Hall is the small but eventful Washington Park.  You can also find Ohio’s oldest continuously operated public market at Findlay Market.  Findlay has shops and restaurants that can be explored for hours.  Plus, with easy access to the streetcar, all the amenities of downtown are available without needing a car or cab.

Dining

The Eagle – A popular choice for fried chicken and other southern classics.

Pepp & Dolores – Housemade pasta and other Italian dishes with a large selection of wine.

Jack Brown’s – A burger joint with a large selection of craft beer.

Losanti – A steakhouse with, “an unparalleled selection of perfectly charred steaks and chops.”

Boomtown Biscuits and Whiskey – An American eatery famous for its elevated comfort food and whiskey cocktails.

Che – Argentinian cuisine with a wide variety of empanadas.

Bakersfield – Upscale tacos, entrees, and cocktails.

Nicola’s – Italian cuisine in a warm and trendy setting.

Senate – An award-winning pub with gourmet hot dogs that span a variety of genres.

Rhinegeist – One of Cincinnati’s rising stars in the brewery world.  A large variety of award-winning beer with a rooftop patio and a great view.

Quick Facts for Renters:

Median Age: 27

Population: 9,829

Median Home Price: $309,091

Median Rent: $587

Average Commute to Downtown: 2 – 5 minutes

Ready to move in?

View our OTR listings for apartments, homes, condos, and townhomes for rent.

 

Sources: Area Vibes, City-Data