Louise Lopez expertly guides queer individuals to vibrant, inclusive U.S. and North American neighborhoods with 15+ years of dedicated experience, ensuring they find not just a home, but a community where their authenticity is celebrated and protected.
One of the most common thoughts you might have before relocating anywhere is how accepting the locals are towards the LGBTQ+ lifestyle. It is a very valid concern and something that sadly still needs to be considered in this day and age.
To help queer folx who are considering moving to Gay Ohio, we have put together this guide from experts on the ground, considering the pros and cons of life here, discussing LGBT rights in Ohio and whether Ohio embraces our community.
We also take a look at the most gay-friendly cities in Ohio, and LGBT community organizations in Ohio that you should be aware of!
Midwestern Ohio, the 7th most populous state in the US, is one of the country’s best states for business. What’s more, living here will accord you plenty of benefits, such as a low cost of living, endless opportunities for recreation, and access to excellent schools.
Ohio is fueled by the financial and manufacturing industries, and the city itself is the country’s largest producer of fabricated metal and plastics. Ohio is undoubtedly an excellent place to call home with its small towns, greenery, and water sources.
Whatever you’re looking for, whether it’s an ideal location to raise a family, find a sense of community, or an education, Ohio could be the right choice for you. However, for those of us in the queer community, such things don’t matter if we don’t feel welcome and embraced.
This is why we have to go further and ask important questions, such as whether the state loves its gay residents, and whether there are inclusive neighborhoods here. If you don’t know much about the state, you should know that Ohio has a mixed attitude, especially where the queer community is concerned.
Social attitudes towards gay people are still very assorted even though the state has made plenty of advancements to become LGBTQ+- welcoming over the years. There have been struggles over the years to improve LGBTQ+ acceptance and the rights of the queer community in the state, but it’s clear that Ohio isn’t quite there yet.
Regardless of all this, the truth is that if you make the choice to move to Ohio, you will find a number of cities and neighborhoods that may appeal to your taste and preferences because they are LGBTQ+- friendly, like Columbus, Cincinnati, and Cleveland. Even here, you might experience discrimination – but sadly, there are very (very) few places in the world where discrimination against queer people would be unheard of.
To reduce the stress of your relocation, we recommend engaging a gay realtor in Ohio early in the process to help you find your new perfect home there. They will have up-to-the-minute information on the best cities and areas for LGBT people, and be able to match your needs to a neighborhood most suited to you.
You can just start with a no-obligation conversation, and if you decide to continue with your move to Ohio – they will not only have your best interests at heart but also ensure you are treated with dignity and respect throughout the entire process.
In this article we will cover...
Highlights Of Moving To Gay Ohio
It’s hard not to get enthusiastic about the unique and tempting proposition that moving to Ohio presents – especially once you get chatting with residents and long-time locals in the know about all their state’s hidden gems and best-kept secrets. After all, this is why many chose to live here.
Once you move here, you should quickly befriend locals, let them ‘spill the tea’ and then spend your free time discovering the best sights, food, nature and culture Ohio has to offer. On top of this, thanks to an offbeat yet deeply engaged LGBT community – which congregates at a few fabulous queer hot spots – securing a relocation to Ohio should allow you to meet local queer people with similar interests.
We are certain locals will have many more to add, but to get you excited, here are just a few highlights to look forward to as you become Ohio’s newest denizen.
You’ve Got Friendly Neighbors
Ohio comes with its own amount of Midwestern charm. Expect to make plenty of friends here, from your neighbors to the people you meet at the park and even the cashier at the grocery store. People here are quite friendly and will not hesitate to give a helping hand whenever it’s needed.
You Will Love the Scenery
In case you didn’t know, the state of Ohio has quite a few islands. The state is also home to a couple of beaches, mountains, waterfalls, and parks, so you can be sure that there’s a lot of scenery for you to take in here.
Some of the most notable places to visit in Ohio include Hocking Hills, Lake Erie, and the southeastern part of the state towards the Appalachian Mountains.
Delicious Food, Yum!
Ohio is the home of delicious cuisine. If you’re a foodie, you will love the growing and thriving culinary scene that’s present almost everywhere in the state. Whether it’s the state’s metros or the rural areas, there’s always new food for you to explore.
Whether it’s the Amish breakfasts you’re after, or more of the new-age foods of Cleveland, Columbus, or Cincinnati, there’s something for everyone here.
LGBTQ+ Rights In The USA
The laws governing lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender people have altered considerably over time in the United States and vary from state to state. In many ways, LGBT rights are some of the best in the world – but the devil is in the detail, and some places are much more hostile to queer life than others.
While same-sex marriage has been legal in every state since the landmark Obergefell v. Hodges ruling on June 26, 2015 (before Obergefell v. Hodges, same-sex marriage was legal in 36 states and Washington, D.C. ), LGBT people are still treated differently in different states – both societally and as inequality under the law.
Over half of all states still allow discrimination on the grounds of sexual orientation and gender identity/expression, while counties and cities within states often have distinct laws as well. While some states permit adoption by all couples, others forbid it for all unmarried couples.
This is all to say what most of us already know is that LGBT rights and equality differ greatly across the USA, and the specifics of family, marriage and anti-discrimination laws are different in every state.
Thus, while it is comforting to know that you can choose to marry whoever you love across the USA (and have it recognized as such) and are protected against hate crimes based on sexual orientation or gender identity (which can be punished under Matthew Shepard and James Byrd, Jr. Hate Crimes Prevention Act of 2009), there are still many questions you will likely have about moving to Ohio and what you can expect of LGBT life there.
Does Ohio Embrace The LGBTQ Community?
The truth is that not everyone thinks about the state of Ohio when it comes to ranking the most LGBT-friendly states in the country. Ohio is mostly a conservative community, but it also has much in store for the gay community and LGBT families.
Unfortunately, the state of Ohio doesn’t have laws protecting the LGBTQ+ community from discrimination. It isn’t unheard of for people in the state to be refused service or get fired simply because of their sexual orientation or gender identity.
Despite all this, by 2021, there were 32 cities in the state that adopted ordinances that banned discrimination in housing, public accommodations, and services on the basis of gender identity and sexual orientation.
The state also has multiple resources, organizations, and programs that aim to support the LGBTQ community when it comes to their legal and health rights.
Unfortunately, the state doesn’t offer any legal protections when it comes to discrimination in health insurance and services on the basis of sexual orientation and gender identity so this has had a major impact on the LGBTQ community.
Even so, where you choose to live in the state has a major impact on how welcome and included you will feel. The bigger cities in the state tend to have more significant populations of LGBTQ people, perhaps thanks to the presence of institutions of higher learning that encourage progressive thinking, or interaction with visitors.
Is Ohio An Expensive State To Move To?
When considering a move to Ohio, it’s reassuring to note that the state’s overall cost of living is 11.6% lower than the national average. However, to truly grasp what life in Ohio entails financially, it’s important to delve into specific cities and how their living costs compare. For instance, Akron, known for its rich industrial history, offers a cost-effective living experience, reflecting Ohio’s affordability.
Other cities like Columbus, Cleveland, and Cincinnati each have their unique economic profiles, with some variance in expenses like housing, utilities, and groceries. Understanding these differences across Ohio’s diverse cities can provide a clearer picture of how your income will align with your lifestyle and expenses in the state.
Housing
The average home in the state is valued at $140,000, which is $64,800 less than the average national home value. Homes built in 1939 and earlier cost on average $95,000, while those built in 2014 and later are worth on average $295,500. In Ohio, the average renter pays $780 per month for housing, which is $230 less than the $1,020 median monthly rent nationwide.
Transportation
You should anticipate spending $917 on gas each year, with an average price of $2.17 per gallon. T the average cost of auto insurance in the state is $1,556, which is higher than the $1,515 nationwide average. Additionally, you should anticipate spending around $9,853 on transportation annually, according to statistics from the EPI.
Healthcare
The average annual cost of healthcare in Ohio for a single adult is $3,720, which is lower than the $4,265 national average.
Food Costs
A single adult in the state of Ohio should anticipate spending around $2,980 each year on food, while a family of four should expect to spend around $8,620. A single adult should expect to spend around $3,230 each year.
LGBTQ+ Community Organizations In Ohio
Wherever you live, it is essential that you support LGBT organizations in any way you can so that they can keep reaching out to and assisting other more vulnerable members of the community. After all, we are stronger when we work together, and each of us will likely have a time in our lives when we require a little extra support.
Thankfully, Ohio has a supportive and diverse LGBTQ community, which has helped the state become more gay-friendly in recent years.
As a result, there are a variety of LGBT resources available to community members, their allies, friends, and families – and you ought to feel free to utilize them or consider giving your support as needed to keep your new home state moving forwards! They are also great places to meet new people and find your queer chosen family in Gay Ohio.
Equality Ohio seeks to ensure there are equal opportunities and fair treatment for all Ohioans, irrespective of their gender identity and sexual orientation. It is the only organization fighting exclusively for the civil rights of LGBTQ Ohioans.
The organization also collaborates with various partners across the expansive social justice movement in the state and strives to ensure that local laws protect LGBTQ citizens and communities.
The organization has become the voice that all LGBTQ people in the state are required to represent their interests. Equality Ohio also aims to hold local leaders accountable for the decisions they make that have an impact on the LGBT community while working on policies with corporations, healthcare facilities, and service providers.
Stonewall Columbus is an organization that was founded with the vision to enhance the acceptance and visibility of the LGBT community in the state. The organization has contributed to many of the changes witnessed in the LGBTQ+ community in the city. It is also noteworthy that Columbus is the 14th largest city in the U.S and the city is recognized as one of the friendliest in the country.
Most Gay-Friendly Cities In Ohio
In Ohio, there are many wonderful areas to live in, but when relocating to LGBTQ Ohio, you should be cognizant that there are a few cities and gaybourhoods that are nearer to the queer hubs of life. Knowing them will allow you to pull your U-Haul up to your new house in a gay-friendly neighborhood or town that is best suited to your needs.
If you’re a lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, or otherwise queer person seeking a welcoming neighborhood with facilities you’ll cherish, start with these top gay and gay-friendly Ohio cities to discover your perfect new home, each with its distinct personality.
Give yourself enough time to acquaint yourself with Ohio’s diverse personalities, and remember that there is no one perfect answer when it comes to the most gay-friendly places in Ohio…and just because it does not make our list doesn’t necessarily make it a bad option.
We recommend speaking to a local LGBT real estate agent for a more detailed understanding of the best options today. Now, let’s take a look at where these fabulously gay-friendly cities in Ohio are and why you might want to consider them!
Columbus
There are numerous LGBTQ+-friendly areas in the city, most notably the German Village and the Ohio State University area. Columbus also has an abundance of nightclubs and clubs that serve as evidence of the city’s reputation as an open and progressive location.
As the state capital, the city is also home to a variety of fantastic neighborhoods that serve as hotspots for a range of cuisines, young professionals, artists, college students, and so much more.
Other smaller communities in the wider Columbus area can be tailored to your preferences, and have costs of living similar to those in the rest of the state Columbus Pride, one of the biggest gay events in the city, welcomes more than 700,000 people to the city each year.
The city also has Lavender Listings, which is a listing of regional goods and services from LGBTQ-friendly businesses. The city is home to three professional sports teams that are based in the Arena District.
Nationwide Arena is where you can see a Blue Jackets game throughout the winter. As a diverse and vibrant city, Columbus is the home of a variety of distinctive districts, including some that are renowned for their welcoming mindsets, fashionable sense, and independence.
As you begin to discover the city, you’ll learn that while each area has its own personality and way of life, one thing is constant: they all extend a cordial invitation to transplants and guests alike.
No matter where you choose to live in Columbus, you will find a lifestyle that will match yours and a lively community that’s ready to welcome you to your new home.
Dayton
The city of Dayton is recognized nationally when it comes to promoting equality based on sexual orientation and gender identity. Dayton has more than 27,000 LGBTQ+ individuals of all ages and has previously recorded the highest ratings on the Municipal Equality Index. The Greater Dayton LGBT Center located in the city seeks to improve the quality of life for sexual minorities in the region.
It is a non-profit organization that is wholly operated by volunteers and is supported by annual membership fees, local businesses, other non-profit organizations, and private donors. The Dayton LGBT Film Festival is one of the most popular events in the city and has brought some of the best LGBT films to the city for decades.
Dayton is a diverse city and is home to a diverse community with people from all walks of life. It is also the center for a vibrant arts scene, and has a gay population that is higher than the national average. Most of the LGBTQ population in the city is located on North Jefferson and 3rd Street in downtown. If you’re one for nightlife, Dayton will not disappoint. The city is home to a good number of h
Cleveland
If you’re looking for a city that will surprise you, Cleveland might be the best choice. The city is home to plenty of restaurants, brew pubs, and wineries that any foodie will be happy to visit. Cleveland also has much to offer in terms of outdoor activities with quite an array to choose from.
The city is an excellent blend of the arts and cultures. It is also a small city with metro amenities so you can be sure that you will lack nothing here. Cleveland is also a very welcoming city and whether you identify as lesbian, gay, heterosexual, bisexual, transgender or questioning, the city will welcome you with open arms.
The truth is that when you live here, you will not be worried about your gender identity or your sexual orientation because the city is welcoming to all. And, that’s not all. Cleveland hosts Pride in the CLE each June, which celebrates the LGBTQ community with entertainment, food, and so much more with the intention of enhancing acceptance and unity in the community.
The best thing about Cleveland doesn’t end in its ability to welcome all. It’s also a city that can offer world-class cuisines, lots of cultural amenities, and attractions that attract lots of tourists each year.
The gay community here is centered on Detroit Avenue. If you’re looking to have the perfect night out, you’re welcome to sample any of the lesbian and gay bars and clubs that will ensure you have the time of your life.
Finding Gay Realtors In Ohio
When looking for the ideal realtor, why would you consider someone’s sexuality? This may seem strange at first, but there are several reasons why contacting a gay realtor in Ohio is a great way to find your dream house.
After all, when it relates to one of life’s most significant transactions, it’s not unreasonable to expect fair, equal, and honest representation from someone who understands the queer community’s particular needs and wishes.
Furthermore, unfortunately, many people (up to a third of Americans) believe that our community does not deserve protection and dignity in housing, adoption, employment, and other areas of life.
So it’s no surprise that LGBT people who use mainstream realtors often describe feelings of discomfort, unnecessary trouble, unenthusiastic representation, or even antagonism or outright contempt.
Everyone deserves a pleasant, stress-free home buying or selling experience while being adequately represented, and this is why we feel you should hire a gay realtor to assist you in finding your future home.
LGBTQ realtors are more likely to be familiar with the diverse communities in their area and know which ones may be best suited to you when looking for a home.
That’s not to say a heterosexual realtor isn’t capable, but they’ve probably never had to address many of the issues LGBT people face.
Rather than just being concerned with how bustling, fashionable, or up-and-coming a neighborhood is (or what it may appear like), gay realtors conduct extensive research into the neighborhoods in which they sell homes to ensure that clients are safe.
It used to be challenging to locate professional LGBT-friendly real estate agents in Ohio, and it was virtually impossible to find one if you were relocating here from out of state and didn’t have access to a local referral.
You no longer have to search for a realtor without knowing whether or not they are accepting of others because you can use a list of gay, lesbian, and gay-friendly agents in Ohio to do all of your homework for you.
Simply go to the page, and you’ll be presented with a free list of gay, lesbian, and gay-friendly agents who can help you with your relocation as well as other useful information like LGBT+friendly schools, shopping, storage firms, tradespeople, and more.
Read the biographies of LGBT real estate agents, then choose the one who is right for you. It’s critical that you find someone who will be by your side and support you and your family during one of life’s most exciting occasions.
Even better, there is no hidden motive, cost, or obligation whatsoever!
