Top 14 Pros and Cons of Living in Toledo, OH

Toledo, OH, often referred to as "The Glass City," is a place full of charm and potential. Known for its rich history, diverse neighborhoods, and vibrant cultural scene, it’s no wonder that many people dream of calling Toledo home. However, life in this Midwestern gem comes with its own set of challenges. So whether you’re searching for a trendy apartment in Downtown Toledo or a cozy apartment in Old Orchard, you’ve come to the right place.

In this ApartmentGuide article, we’ll explore the various pros and cons of living in Toledo, helping you decide if this welcoming city on the banks of the Maumee River is the right place for you.

Fast facts about living in Toledo

• Known for: Glass manufacturing, Toledo Zoo, and the Mud Hens baseball team
• Fun fact: Toledo is home to the largest collection of public murals in Ohio
• Population: Over 270,000 residents
• Average rent: $802 per month for a one-bedroom apartment
• Median home sale price: $125,000
• Public parks: Over 140, including Ottawa Park and Swan Creek Preserve Metropark
• Proximity to Detroit: About 60 miles north
• Transportation: Toledo Express Airport and Amtrak services
• Languages spoken: Predominantly English and Spanish

1. Pro: Affordable cost of living

The cost of living in Toledo is 5% lower than the national average, making it an appealing option for those seeking budget-friendly living. Housing costs, in particular, are much lower, with median sale price for a home in Toledo at $125,000 and the average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Toledo at $802. This affordability extends to everyday expenses like groceries, dining out, and transportation, allowing residents to stretch their budgets further.

Additionally, utility bills and healthcare costs are generally on par with or slightly below the national average, further contributing to Toledo’s cost-effectiveness. While salaries in Toledo may not match those of larger cities, the reduced expenses make it easier for residents to manage their finances, save for the future, and enjoy discretionary spending without breaking the bank.

2. Con: Limited job opportunities in some industries

While Toledo has a robust economy centered around healthcare, education, and manufacturing, opportunities in industries like technology and finance are more limited. Residents may need to commute to nearby cities like Detroit for specialized job markets or work remotely for companies based elsewhere.

3. Pro: Thriving arts and cultural scene

Toledo is home to a vibrant arts and cultural community. The Toledo Museum of Art, with its world-renowned glass pavilion, draws visitors from across the country. The Valentine Theatre and Toledo Symphony Orchestra provide year-round entertainment. Additionally, the city hosts several festivals and events, such as the Glass City Film Festival and the Art Loop, celebrating Toledo’s creative spirit.

4. Con: Harsh winters

Toledo experiences cold and snowy winters, with average temperatures often dropping below freezing. Snowfall and icy roads can make commuting and outdoor activities challenging during the winter months. While the city is well-prepared for snow removal, residents should be ready to deal with long, cold winters.

5. Pro: Access to outdoor recreation

Toledo’s location along Lake Erie and its extensive park system make it a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Residents can enjoy hiking, fishing, kayaking, and bird-watching in the area’s many parks and nature preserves. Popular spots like Maumee Bay State Park and Oak Openings Preserve Metropark offer beautiful landscapes and year-round activities.

Popular outdoor recreation areas in Toledo

• Ottawa Park
• Swan Creek Preserve Metropark
• Maumee Bay State Park
• Oak Openings Preserve Metropark
• Side Cut Metropark

6. Con: Public transportation limitations

While Toledo offers public transportation through the TARTA bus system, it is not as comprehensive as in larger cities. Many residents rely on personal vehicles for commuting, which can be inconvenient for those without access to a car.

Toledo transportation scores

• Walk Score: 46
• Bike Score: 46

7. Pro: Strong sense of community

Toledo’s residents take pride in their city’s history and culture, creating a welcoming and tight-knit community. Local events like the Polish Festival and the Toledo Jeep Fest celebrate the city’s diverse heritage. Neighborhood associations and community programs further foster a sense of connection among residents.

8. Con: Economic challenges

Toledo has experienced economic challenges that have affected infrastructure quality and job opportunities in certain areas. While revitalization efforts are underway, some parts of the city continue to see slower economic growth.

9. Pro: Proximity to major cities

Toledo’s location makes it a convenient hub for travel to nearby cities. Residents can easily visit Detroit, Cleveland, or Columbus for work or leisure. The city’s access to major highways and transportation hubs like the Toledo Express Airport ensures connectivity.

Popular destinations and commute times

• Detroit, MI: 1 hour
• Cleveland, OH: 2 hours
• Columbus, OH: 2.5 hours
• Ann Arbor, MI: 1 hour
• Maumee, OH: 15–20 minutes

10. Con: Aging infrastructure

Some parts of Toledo, including roads and public facilities, suffer from aging infrastructure. The city has ongoing plans for updates and maintenance, but residents may encounter areas in need of repair or redevelopment.

11. Pro: Excellent educational institutions

Toledo is home to several reputable schools and higher education institutions. The University of Toledo offers a range of undergraduate and graduate programs, while Owens Community College provides accessible options for career training and education. The city also has a mix of public, private, and charter schools.

12. Con: Air quality concerns

Toledo’s industrial history and location in the Midwest contribute to occasional air quality issues, particularly during the summer months. Residents with respiratory conditions may need to take precautions during periods of poor air quality.

13. Pro: Affordable entertainment options

Toledo offers a variety of budget-friendly entertainment options, from the Toledo Zoo and Aquarium to Mud Hens baseball games. The city’s cost-effective attractions make it easy for residents to enjoy local activities without breaking the bank.

14. Con: Limited nightlife options

Toledo’s nightlife scene is modest compared to larger cities. While there are bars, live music venues, and restaurants, residents seeking a bustling nightlife may need to travel to nearby cities like Detroit or Cleveland for more variety.

Pros & cons of living in Toledo, OH (Summary)

• Pro: Affordable cost of living
• Con: Limited job opportunities in some industries
• Pro: Thriving arts and cultural scene
• Con: Harsh winters
• Pro: Access to outdoor recreation
• Con: Public transportation limitations
• Pro: Strong sense of community
• Con: Economic challenges
• Pro: Proximity to major cities
• Con: Aging infrastructure
• Pro: Excellent educational institutions
• Con: Air quality concerns
• Pro: Affordable entertainment options
• Con: Limited nightlife options

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