Housing Programs
Our housing is concentrated in scattered sites around Washington Park (from 12th Street and Vine Street to Elm Street); on East Clifton Avenue, Peete Street, McMicken Avenue and surround alleys in Over-the-Rhine. Many apartments are in historic three to four story buildings with high ceilings and large windows.
All apartments have fully equipped kitchens and private bathrooms with secure entrances; some have off-street parking. We have a mixed of housing - efficiency, 1 to 4-bedroom apartments. Call (513) 381-1171 for availability.
Over-the-Rhine Community Housing provides affordable housing. Affordable housing means that our rent rates are significantly below market rates - efficiency apartment rents for ~ $125 to $175 and a 4-bedroom rents at ~ $500 a month (1 bedroom market rate = $500 a month rent.) The rents range varying with the apartment size and utilities. With the subsidized units, rent would be 30 percent of the individuals income. For most apartments, the tenant pays the gas, electric, and heat.
To apply for housing at OTRCH, go to the APPLY page or feel free to call the office, 513.381.1171.
General History
Over-the-Rhine lost most of its income and population in the 1960s, before much subsidized housing existed in the area. Like many inner city neighborhoods all across the country, this exodus was mostly middle and working class people and families leaving for the suburbs.
For decades, policies favoring suburban over urban development set the stage for shrinking land values in the urban core. Declining land values led to declining tax revenues, which in turn stressed the budgets for city services in the area. This cycle continued the neighborhood's decline, and drove out many of the families who could not afford to leave.
Over the past 20 years, Over-the-Rhine Community Housing has developed over 300 units of affordable housing and currently manages approximately 200 units. We have saved 45 historical buildings from the wrecking ball. We also provide referrals to other housing agencies and shelters.
Consistent with our mission and guiding purpose, we work to ensure that existing, low-wealth residents benefit from our neighborhood revitalization initiatives. Our developments contribute to the local economy through employment opportunities, supporting community businesses by purchasing materials and supplies locally, and by infusing the income tax base of the neighborhood.
Recent studies of community controlled, non-profit housing developments have concluded that the value of property near these developments typically increases. By rehabbing formerly abandoned buildings, and occupying them with a stable tenant base, we increase local property values, improve the social and economic climate of the community, and make a better neighborhood for all.
Subsidized / Supportive Housing
Recovery Hotel
Recovery Hotel is a collaboration of Over-the-Rhine Community Housing and Drop Inn Center. It consists of 20 furnished apartments of transitional housing for men and women in recovery from drug and alcohol abuse. There is on-site case management with 24-hour door monitoring. Rent is subsidized through Cincinnati Metropolitan Housing Authority (CMHA). Narcotics Anonymous and Alcoholics Anonymous meetings occur on-site.
Buddy's Place
Buddy's Place consists of 20 furnished apartments of permanent housing for homeless women and men. To qualify you must be single, homeless, and low-income. The rent is subsidized through CMHA and all utilities are included. We provide off-site case management, and tenants have access to off-street parking.
Housing for the Homeless
A scattered site development on Vine Street and 13th Street is reserved for homeless individuals who need permanent housing. There are no supportive services provided on site, however, many residents referred by the Drop Inn Center have been successful in gaining permanent housing.