Madeira, OH
- About the City
- Geography
- Climate and Weather
- Landmarks
- Transport
- Sport and Sports Legends
- Museums
- Universities and Educational Institutions
- Medical Institutions and Healthcare
Madeira is a residential suburb of Cincinnati, Ohio, offering a quiet small-town atmosphere with excellent schools and convenient access to the city's urban amenities.
About the City
Official Status and Administrative Affiliation
- Full Official Name: City of Madeira, Ohio .
- Administrative Role: Madeira is a city in Hamilton County and is not a county seat. It is a residential suburb of Cincinnati .
- Country and Region: Located in the United States, in the state of Ohio (known as the "Buckeye State"), specifically in Hamilton County. Hamilton County is a major economic and cultural hub in southwestern Ohio, anchored by the city of Cincinnati.
Founding Date and Age
The area was known as a post town and named for John Madeira, who owned a large tract of land in the vicinity . The town was largely laid out in 1871. Madeira was incorporated as a village in 1910 and gained city status in August 1959 . As of 2026, the city is 116 years old since its incorporation.
Geographical Position and Coordinates
- Geographic Coordinates: 39°11′18″N 84°22′6″W (39.188310, -84.368366) .
- Location Relative to Natural Features: Madeira is located in southwestern Ohio, approximately 15 miles (24 km) northeast of downtown Cincinnati. It is situated in a region of rolling hills and is near the Little Miami River, a designated State and National Scenic River .
- Elevation: The city's elevation is approximately 758 feet (231 meters) above sea level .
- Settlement Type: Madeira is a suburban city and a bedroom community of Cincinnati.
City Type and Economic Specialization
Madeira is primarily a residential suburb with a small, walkable downtown area and some light industry . Its economy is locally focused, with small businesses, shops, and restaurants serving the community. Many residents commute to Cincinnati or other parts of Hamilton County for work . In 2007, BusinessWeek ranked it as one of the "Best Places to Raise Kids--For Less" .
Population and Demographics
- Population: According to the 2020 census, the population was 9,487 .
- Population Class: Based on its population, Madeira is classified as a small city.
- Demographic Features: Madeira is characterized by its high median income ($142,917) and educational attainment levels, with nearly 72% of residents holding a bachelor's degree or higher . It is a predominantly residential community with a family-oriented atmosphere.
"Visiting Card" (Briefly)
Madeira, Ohio, is a charming and safe residential suburb of Cincinnati, offering a quintessential small-town American feel with a tight-knit community, highly-ranked schools, and a quaint downtown. It provides a peaceful retreat with easy access to the vibrant cultural and economic opportunities of the Greater Cincinnati region .
Geography
Water Bodies (Rivers, Lakes, Waterfalls)
- Little Miami River (Little Miami River): This National and State Scenic River is located near Madeira. It provides opportunities for various outdoor activities like fishing, kayaking, canoeing, and nature walks along its riparian zone .
- Lake (Miller Park): Miller Park, a local green space, features a small lake, offering a peaceful setting for picnics and relaxation within the city .
National and Nature Parks
- Cincinnati Nature Center: Located near Madeira, this is a forest paradise that spans over 300 hectares and offers numerous hiking trails, such as the "River Trail" .
- Little Miami Scenic Trail: A must-visit for cyclists and hikers, this well-developed trail follows the Little Miami River and connects several small villages, offering panoramic river views .
- Spring Grove Cemetery and Arboretum: This cemetery is designed more like a botanical garden, with artful monuments, centuries-old trees, and a tranquil atmosphere, making it a unique place to escape the city noise .
- Stanley Rowe Arboretum: An arboretum located nearby, listed on the Madeira USGS topo map .
- Mariemont Historic District: A charming, planned village located near Madeira, known for its beautiful architecture, brick-paved streets, and a weekly farmers market. It's a perfect place for a walk .
Climate and Weather
Climate Type and General Characteristics
Madeira has a humid continental climate, characterized by warm to hot, humid summers and cold winters . Precipitation is evenly distributed throughout the year, with slightly higher amounts during the summer months .
Average Monthly Temperatures
- Warmest Month: July, with an average daily high of 31°C (88°F) and an average low of 19°C (66°F) .
- Coldest Month: January, with an average daily high of 3°C (37°F) and an average low of -6°C (21°F) .
- Annual Average Temperature: The average temperature over the entire day is about 13°C (55°F) .
| Month | Avg. High (°C / °F) | Avg. Low (°C / °F) |
|---|---|---|
| January | 3°C (37°F) | -6°C (21°F) |
| February | 6°C (43°F) | -4°C (25°F) |
| March | 12°C (54°F) | 1°C (34°F) |
| April | 18°C (64°F) | 6°C (43°F) |
| May | 24°C (75°F) | 13°C (55°F) |
| June | 28°C (82°F) | 17°C (63°F) |
| July | 31°C (88°F) | 19°C (66°F) |
| August | 31°C (88°F) | 18°C (64°F) |
| September | 28°C (82°F) | 14°C (57°F) |
| October | 21°C (70°F) | 8°C (46°F) |
| November | 12°C (54°F) | 1°C (34°F) |
| December | 6°C (43°F) | -2°C (28°F) |
*Source: Meteoatlas.de *
Precipitation and Humidity
- Average Annual Precipitation: The area receives a significant amount of precipitation, with one source citing approximately 1124 mm (44.3 inches) per year , and another citing a higher figure of 1425 mm (56.1 inches) .
- Wettest Month: May, with an average of 168.5 mm (6.63 inches) of precipitation .
- Driest Month: August, with an average of 76.4 mm (3.00 inches) of precipitation .
- Humidity: The average humidity level is around 81% .
- Snow: Snow is most common in January and February, making up 19% and 23% of monthly precipitation, respectively .
Seasonality and Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Madeira for pleasant weather is during the spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) when temperatures are mild and the scenery is at its best.
- Spring (April-May): Temperatures warm up from mild to warm (12°C to 24°C / 54°F to 75°F). This is a beautiful time with blooming flowers, but it is also the wettest period of the year .
- Summer (June-August): Summers are hot and humid, with average highs peaking at 31°C (88°F) in July and August. This is a great time for outdoor activities like visiting the pool or the Cincinnati Nature Center, though it can be quite warm .
- Autumn (September-October): The weather cools down to warm and mild temperatures (21-28°C / 70-82°F in September, dropping to 15°C / 59°F in October). The fall foliage is a major attraction, and rainfall begins to decrease .
- Winter (November-March): Winters are cold, with average highs in January around 3°C (37°F). Snowfall is common but not extreme. This is a quiet time to visit and experience the local indoor attractions in nearby Cincinnati .
Landmarks
[Madeira Historical Society Museum]
- Full Name: Madeira Historical Society Museum.
- Location: Housed in the former Old Town Hall in the heart of the city .
- Description: This local museum showcases the history of Madeira, from its days as an agricultural settlement to its development into a suburb. It features a collection of historical photographs and artifacts, including items like a yellowed newspaper from 1912 reporting on the installation of the first electric street lights .
[St. Michael’s Catholic Church]
- Full Name: St. Michael’s Catholic Church.
- Year Built/Opened: The building dates from the 1920s .
- Description: This historic church has a beautiful yet understated interior. The parish is known for its active community and stands as a landmark of the city's heritage .
[Madeira City Park and Miller Park]
- Full Name: Madeira City Park and Miller Park.
- Description: Madeira offers several parks for recreation. Madeira City Park provides facilities for sports such as baseball, basketball, and tennis . Miller Park is another community hub, featuring a small lake, a playground, and a path perfect for a 30-minute jog or a family picnic .
- Madeira Municipal Pool: Located within the city, the pool is a popular spot for swimming and relaxing during the hot summer months .
[Madeira Public Library]
- Full Name: Madeira Public Library.
- Description: Though not huge, this library serves as a cornerstone of the community. It has an impressive selection of local history books, and the staff are known for their friendly, personalized service .
Transport
Main Highways and Roads
Madeira is a suburban community well-connected by a network of county roads . Its location in Hamilton County provides residents with easy access to the interstate highway system serving the Greater Cincinnati area, though no major interstates pass directly through the city itself.
Public Transportation System (Bus)
Public transportation in Madeira is provided by the Southwest Ohio Regional Transit Authority (SORTA), which operates the MetroBus system .
- MetroBus: This is the most popular public transport option for locals, offering multiple routes throughout the city and connecting it with other nearby cities and neighborhoods in the Greater Cincinnati area .
- Cincinnati Bell Connector: This streetcar provides fast and efficient service between Downtown Cincinnati and other stops in Madeira .
- SORTA Accessible Transportation: This system provides transportation services to disabled riders at no cost .
Commuting Patterns
The average one-way commute time for Madeira residents is 23.2 minutes, which is shorter than the U.S. average of 26.4 minutes. The vast majority of residents commute by car :
- Drive Alone: 83.8%
- Work From Home: 8.0%
- Carpool: 4.4%
- Take Mass Transit: 0.4%
Sport and Sports Legends
Madeira, a small city in Ohio, has a strong high school sports culture, with its teams, the Madeira Mustangs, achieving significant success at the state level.
The Madeira High School Mustangs are the heart of the community's sports scene. The school's athletic programs have a history of excellence, competing in the Ohio High School Athletic Association (OHSAA) state tournaments.
The Madeira Mustangs girls soccer team is a powerhouse in the state. They won the OHSAA Division V state championship in 2024 and successfully defended their title by winning it again in 2025, defeating Doylestown Chippewa 3-0. This marked the program's third state title overall, with their first coming in 2010 in Division II. The 2025 championship was particularly notable as the team relied on its defensive strength after graduating 10 seniors from the previous year's squad .
The Madeira Mustangs boys basketball team also has a rich history. The 1999 team, led by senior guard and state co-Player of the Year Todd Schlensker, had a historic season. Ranked No. 2 in the state, the team averaged over 80 points per game and made an unforgettable run to the Division III state semifinals, marking the first time in program history they advanced that far. Their high-powered offense led them to win every tournament game by at least 15 points before their journey ended in Columbus .
Museums
Madeira is home to a local historical museum that preserves the city's heritage.
- Miller House Museum: Operated by the Madeira Historical Society, this museum is located on Miami Avenue. It is a local history museum dedicated to preserving the story of Madeira and the surrounding area. The museum is open on weekends, offering residents and visitors a glimpse into the city's past .
Universities and Educational Institutions
While Madeira itself does not host a university campus, it is strategically located within the Greater Cincinnati area, offering residents easy access to over 50 colleges and universities within a 50-mile radius .
Several notable institutions are a short drive away:
- UC Blue Ash College: Located just 4 miles from Madeira, this is a regional campus of the University of Cincinnati, offering a wide range of associate and bachelor's degree programs .
- Xavier University: A prominent private Jesuit university located about 6 miles away in Cincinnati, known for its strong liberal arts, business, and pharmacy programs .
- University of Cincinnati Main Campus: One of the largest employers and educational institutions in the region, located roughly 8 miles from Madeira. It is a major public research university with an enrollment of over 43,000 students .
- Athenaeum of Ohio: A seminary and graduate school of theology situated about 7 miles from Madeira, serving as the major seminary for the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Cincinnati .
Other specialized schools in the vicinity include the Cincinnati College of Mortuary Science, the Art Academy of Cincinnati, and several technical and community colleges, providing a wide array of educational opportunities for Madeira residents .
Medical Institutions and Healthcare
While Madeira has its own skilled nursing and rehabilitation facility, residents also have access to a vast network of hospitals and medical centers in the Greater Cincinnati area.
Local Skilled Nursing and Rehabilitation
- Ayden Healthcare of Madeira (also known as Madeira Healthcare or Madeira Healthcare Center): Located at 5970 Kenwood Road in Cincinnati (with a Madeira address), this is the primary long-term care facility in the immediate area. It is a for-profit skilled nursing facility that accepts Medicare and Medicaid and provides a range of services .
- Services Offered: The facility provides 24-hour skilled nursing care, short-term rehabilitation (including physical, occupational, and speech therapy), long-term residential care, and a secured memory care unit for residents with Alzheimer's and other dementias. They also offer hospice care, respite stays, and specialized services like wound care and dialysis care .
- Facility Details: The center has 115-122 certified beds and offers amenities such as a rehabilitation gym, a beauty salon/barber shop, and private suite options .
- Performance and Ratings: The facility has a mixed performance record. The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) gives it an overall rating of 2 out of 5 stars. This rating is comprised of a 1-star rating for Health Inspections, a 1-star rating for Staffing, and a 5-star rating for Quality Measures . Nursing staff hours are below both the state and national averages . Public reviews are polarized, with some families praising individual staff members while others cite serious concerns about inconsistent care, communication, staffing shortages, and safety issues .
Nearby Hospitals
Madeira is within a short distance of several major hospitals in the northern Cincinnati suburbs. The closest include:
- Mercy Health - The Jewish Hospital: Located approximately 2 miles away .
- TriHealth Evendale Hospital: Situated about 5.6 miles from Madeira .
- Mercy Health Kings Mills Hospital: Found in Mason, Ohio, about 13 miles away, and has received Patient Safety Excellence Awards .
- University Pointe Surgical Hospital: A surgical hospital in West Chester, approximately 12 miles away .
Residents also have access to the larger medical centers in downtown Cincinnati and the northern Kentucky region, including the renowned Christ Hospital and the St. Elizabeth Healthcare system .