Ohio’s Smaller Cities Shine in National Comparisons

Several Ohio communities received positive publicity this week thanks to two national studies that compare smaller cities across America.

Heartland Forward — a non-partisan institute for economic renewal — released its “Most Dynamic Micropolitan Regions” report, which ranks 515 micropolitan regions by economic performance. Top 150 cities include Wapakoneta, Wilmington, Celina, Findlay, Port Clinton, and Van Wert. Marietta and Wooster also had strong showings.

WalletHub.com published its “Best Small Cities in America” report, which compares more than 1,200 smaller cities by examining 43 factors, including local economy, affordability, and school quality. Mason and Dublin made the study’s 99th percentile, representing the top 1% of smaller cities. Other Ohio cities in the top 20% were Hilliard, Beavercreek, Upper Arlington, Mentor, Strongsville, North Royalton, North Ridgeville, Delaware, Medina, Westerville, Stow, and Westlake. 10/21/2020