Ohio is a state of the US Midwest and the 34th largest in terms of surface area. There are almost 12 million residents, making it one of the most populated states in the country. The capital is Columbus, but other densely populated areas include Cincinnati and Cleveland. The state is one of the main areas in the country for manufacturing and each city offers different opportunities. For example, Cleveland is known for auto parts while Toledo is a major producer of glass. The state has a large agricultural industry ranging from the production of corn to grapes.

There is much to see and do in Ohio. The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame attracts many visitors each year, as do the homes of some of the former presidents of the USA such as Grant, Garfield and Taft. Expats are beginning to be drawn to the region as there are many good areas in which to set up home and the school and college systems have an excellent reputation.

The state has a humid continental climate, which means that summers are hot while the winters range from mild to cold. There is a moderate rainfall all year round and the area is prone to rain and snow storms.

Ohio – Employment

There are some opportunities for expats in the state, but in recent years there have been high levels of unemployment and many young people have left to look for work elsewhere, although the unemployment rate is now dropping.

For those looking for work in the area there are a number of large international companies with a presence in the region. Proctor and Gamble is a household name and employs many people within the state, so there are opportunities there in a range of departments. Goodyear, the tyre manufacturers also have a base there, as does the designer clothes label Abercrombie & Fitch. Manufacturing is a major part of the state’s economy and there are always opportunities for unskilled workers. Businesses in the region produce plastics, electrical equipment and metal.

The utility and transportation sectors are among the largest employers in the state, for both skilled professionals and unskilled workers. The healthcare sector employs large numbers of people but there are many opportunities for trained doctors and nurses in Ohio. Agriculture is another major contributor to the Ohio economy with crop farms and dairy farms in abundance.

There are also opportunities for workers in the tourism sector, as thousands of people visit the state each year. Jobs in the hospitality and retail sectors are always available and if you are experienced in one of these fields then it may work in your favour.

Ohio – Property

Columbus has a number of districts that are desirable in terms of housing. For example, the German Village – founded by German expats in the 1800s – is now a much sought after area and has everything that the residents need for day to day living, including shops and restaurants. The property on offer is mainly single family homes, usually with large gardens, although there are some apartments too. As a sought after location it is not cheap but is not the most expensive area of the state.

Cincinnati also has several districts that are sought after by residents. The Downtown District is a busy area and very popular with young professionals. There are cafes, bars, cinemas and theatres. In contrast the Coryville district is the university area, boasting cheap rental accommodation and shops. Another contrast is the Hyde Park district which is in the eastern part of the city and caters mainly for the luxury home market. The shops here are expensive clothing stores and restaurants and the homes are luxury apartments and large detached family homes.

The Mount Adams district of Cincinnati is close to the Downtown district and is the period part of town, with narrow streets and old fashioned houses. It is known for a friendly social atmosphere with many pubs and the houses on the market here are mainly period properties with character, rather than new developments. Indian Hill is another district reserved for the wealthy and is home to a few local celebrities. The area is filled with big houses set in their own grounds and the price tags on the properties are high to match.