Why Southwest Ohio might just be the coziest corner of the Midwest

According to the “Coziest Cities in the U.S.” analysis by PrivacyJournal.net, cities that rank high in comfort often share one thing — places such as coffee shops, libraries and bakeries where community naturally happens.

Cincinnati, which placed solidly in the top 20 nationally, checks all those boxes. The Queen City boasts more than 150 independent coffee shops and roasters, from neighborhood gems like Coffee Emporium and Urbana Café to cozy corners such as Deeper Roots and Mom ‘n ’Em Coffee.

The Madison Place in Mariemont positions itself as “a coffeeshop for our neighbors,” stating its commitment to offering the neighborhood a place to connect and “grow into a stronger community.” Online: themadisonplace.com

Dayton holds its own with beloved local spots including Ghostlight Coffee, Winans and Third Perk, which double as creative gathering spaces.

Add in independent bookstores such as Smith & Hannon in Cincinnati — the city’s only Black-owned bookstore — and Bonnett’s Books in Dayton, and it’s clear the region thrives on creating places that invite connection.

Dayton, known as the “Outdoor Adventure Capital of the Midwest,” is home to the nation’s largest paved trail network. The Dayton-Springfield region (Ohio’s Miami Valley) boasts more than 350 miles of bikeways and walkways connecting schools, parks, historic landmarks and area attractions.

Add in the charm of the city’s walkable, village-like feel of the Oregon District, and Southwest Ohio offers the kind of lived-in coziness that’s both urban and intimate.

Cincinnati’s abundance of boutique Airbnbs in repurposed rowhouses and Dayton’s charming historic homes-turned-inns make it easy to find a snug weekend retreat without leaving town. Fauver Suite B — a cozy townhome in the heart of Dayton — is listed as “one of the most loved homes on Airbnb.”

The “Coziest Cities” report found that creative activities — such as painting and pottery — are among the strongest community connectors. That’s especially true in Southwest Ohio, where art spaces double as havens for self-expression and social warmth.

From pottery studios in Hamilton’s revitalized Main Street to hands-on cooking classes in Dayton’s 2nd Street Market, the creative side of coziness is alive and well here. The 2nd Street Market offers residents a unique farmer’s market experience year-round – where local growers, bakers and artisans fill a historical freight house reminiscent of European markets.

Downtown Cincinnati features a thriving cultural hub in Over-the-Rhine, known for having the largest collection of well-preserved Italianate architecture in the country.