Best Hometowns 2026 27: Loveland, Marietta, Marion, Massillon, Tiffin (photos by Rachael Jirousek, Kelly Larson and Doug Hinebaugh)
Ohio Life

Ohio Magazine’s Best Hometowns 2026-27

Each fall, we celebrate communities that embody what makes life across our state great. This year, we honor Loveland, Marietta, Marion, Massillon and Tiffin. 

Ohio Magazine’s Best Hometowns 2026–27 celebrates five communities where local character, history and new investment shape everyday life.

In Loveland, the Little Miami River, a lively downtown and enduring traditions bring residents together. Marietta, the first permanent settlement in the Northwest Territory, blends riverfront heritage with fresh energy, while Marion is building on its industrial legacy and presidential history through downtown redevelopment. In Massillon, football pride, industrial ingenuity and historic streets reflect a sense of identity, while Tiffin pairs a revitalized downtown with two universities and a rich history that add up to a distinctive community. 

Each city offers its own reasons to visit, from outdoor recreation and great local businesses to cultural landmarks and welcoming public spaces. Discover what makes these five Best Hometowns stand out and how their residents are carrying each community forward.

Family window-shopping at Loveland Trail Books (photo by Matthew Allen)

Loveland: Riverfront recreation, a thriving downtown district and cherished local traditions create an inviting place to call home in suburban Cincinnati.

People shopping in downtown Marietta (photo by Michelle Waters)

Marietta: The first permanent settlement in the Northwest Territory honors its groundbreaking past while embracing new energy along its historic streets and riverfront.

Women walking outside the Palace Theatre in downtown Marion (photo by Doug Hinebaugh)

Marion: Downtown investment and redevelopment, industrial strength and presidential history are helping this community build on its proud heritage.

People eating at Chloe’s Diner in Massillon (photo by Jeani Brechbill)

Massillon: Deep football roots, industrial ingenuity and historic streets define a proud community shaped by its past and focused on the future.

Family walking on bridge in Tiffin (photo by Doug Hinebaugh)

Tiffin: A revitalized downtown, two universities and rich history give this Seneca County city a distinctive energy and a strong sense of community.

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Ohio Magazine is available in a beautifully designed print issue that is published 7 times a year, along with Spring-Summer and Fall-Winter editions of LongWeekends magazine. Subscribe to Ohio Magazine and stay connected to beauty, adventure and fun across our state.

 

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