L.W.
OH GOD..I just typed a bible and accidently X'd out. Anyway East side is not too great. VERY blue collar.
I live in Northern KY. Hubby and I are not natives(Im from Chicago, Hubby from Fargo ND) we have lived here for 8 years but sadly have to say goodbye...moving to Cleveland next spring.
Anyway I LOVE Northern KY. you get big bang for your buck and the property taxes are VERY reasonable. For your friends since they can afford it...tell them to check out Triple Crown. (I think Nick Lashey has a house there)
Otherwise since he will be commuting to IN...what about moving to IN? THey have some nice places...but as far as I know the nice places in Cincinnati are Anderson township or Blue Ash...but DEFINATLY no to the East side for your friends. Anderson and Blue Ash would be too far of a commute...
Before moving, I called the City of Cinncinnati and then sent me a bunch of stuff about the City, School Districts etc. Your friends can start there... But they will need to decide what fits their familys needs. I dont think they would have a hard time adapting to the City...shouldnt matter if they live on the north side, east, west, south..we are all Cincinnatians.
Good luck