In the heart of the Midwest lies a treasure trove of idyllic small towns, each with its unique charm and appeal, making Ohio a prime destination for families seeking a perfect place to call home. From the vibrant community of Dublin to the serene landscapes of Granville, and the family-friendly atmosphere of Upper Arlington, Ohio boasts an array of towns that stand out for their family-oriented living. Let’s embark on a journey to explore some of the best small towns in Ohio.
Best Small Towns in Ohio to Raise a Family
1. Dublin
Nestled in the northwest part of Columbus, Dublin is a picturesque town known for seamlessly blending modern amenities with a touch of historic charm. Boasting a metro area population of around 1,270,000 residents, Dublin offers a welcoming atmosphere with top-notch schools and parks.
The median home value is approximately $465,000, and the average household income is around $182,700, making it an economically stable community. It is also known as a perfect blend of modernity and tradition. Raising a family in Dublin, Ohio, offers the perfect blend of modern amenities, top-notch schools, and a thriving community, creating an ideal environment for children to flourish.
With its strategic location near Columbus, families in Dublin enjoy a harmonious balance of suburban tranquility and urban opportunities, making it a compelling choice for those seeking an enriching and family-friendly lifestyle.
Beyond its appealing aesthetics, Dublin’s strategic location near Columbus provides job opportunities, excellent schools, and a thriving cultural scene, making it an ideal choice for families looking for a well-rounded living experience.
Fun Fact
Dublin hosts the annual Dublin Irish Festival, one of the largest celebrations of Irish culture in the United States, attracting visitors from near and far.
Neighborhoods
Best Neighborhoods: Muirfield Village and Ballantrae showcase the town’s commitment to providing family-friendly environments with excellent schools and recreational facilities.
2. Powell
Situated just north of Columbus, Powell is a quaint town with a population of around 15,000. Powell’s median home value is approximately $500,000, and the median household income hovers around $168,000, contributing to its reputation as a prosperous and family-oriented community.
Raising children in Powell, Ohio, offers families a harmonious blend of community values, top-rated schools, and a quaint atmosphere. With a strong emphasis on family-friendly events and an abundance of green spaces, Powell provides an ideal environment where children can thrive, and families can build lasting connections.
Powell’s emphasis on community values, combined with its proximity to major urban centers, makes it an appealing choice for families seeking a close-knit environment without sacrificing access to amenities.
Fun Fact
Powell hosts a vibrant local farmers’ market, fostering a sense of community and providing residents with fresh, locally sourced produce.
Parks: Liberty Park stands out with its sports fields and nature trails.
Hospitals: Mount Carmel St. Ann’s Hospital is nearby, offering a range of medical services.
Schools: Olentangy Local School District is highly rated for its quality education.
Other Amenities: The town center features unique shops and local eateries, enhancing community life.
Neighborhoods
Liberty Township and Olentangy Liberty High School District are highly sought after for their excellent schools and family-friendly atmosphere.
In addition to these charming small towns, if you’re considering living in a larger city, don’t forget to explore the ‘Best Places to Live in Dayton Ohio‘ for more options.
3. Solon
Nestled in the northeastern part of Ohio, Solon is a suburban gem with a population of around 23,000. It boasts a median home value of approximately $400,000 and a median household income of around $114,214, making it an affordable yet affluent option for families.
Solon, Ohio, offers families an idyllic suburban oasis with top-notch schools, a focus on safety, and a strong sense of community, providing an ideal environment for children to thrive and grow. With affordable yet affluent living, Solon strikes the perfect balance between suburban tranquility and urban convenience, ensuring families enjoy a high quality of life.
Beyond its safety and affordability, Solon provides access to excellent schools, parks, and recre Granville’s rich history, coupled with its emphasis on education and natural beauty, makes it an ideal haven for families seeking a small-town atmosphere with a touch of sophistication.
Fun Fact
Solon consistently ranks as one of the safest cities in Ohio, offering peace of mind to families raising children.
Parks: Solon Community Park is a highlight with its play areas and sports facilities.
Hospitals: Cleveland Clinic Family Health and Surgery Center provides accessible healthcare.
Schools: Solon City School District is consistently ranked among the best in the state.
Other Amenities: Solon offers a variety of shopping centers and cultural venues, adding to its appeal.
Neighborhoods
Signature of Solon and Chagrin Highlands are renowned for their family-friendly ambiance and top-rated schools.
4. Granville
Nestled in the rolling hills of central Ohio, Granville is a charming town with a population of around 5,700. Known for its historic architecture and scenic landscapes, Granville boasts a median home value of approximately $632,000 and a average household income of around $154,563.
Raising children in Granville, Ohio, offers a harmonious blend of rich history, top-notch education from institutions like Denison University, and a serene environment, providing families with a nurturing community that values academic excellence and natural beauty. Moving to Granville promises a quaint yet sophisticated lifestyle, fostering a well-rounded upbringing for your children.
Granville’s rich history, coupled with its emphasis on education and natural beauty, makes it an ideal haven for families seeking a small-town atmosphere with a touch of sophistication.
Fun Fact
Granville is home to Denison University, adding a lively and intellectual atmosphere to the town.
Parks: Wildwood Park offers scenic trails and picnic areas in a serene setting.
Hospitals: Licking Memorial Hospital serves the community with comprehensive healthcare services.
Schools: Granville Exempted Village School District is known for its strong academic programs.
Other Amenities: The historic downtown area features quaint shops, art galleries, and annual cultural events.
Neighborhoods
Bryn Du Woods and Wildwood provide a perfect blend of historic charm and modern amenities.
5. Upper Arlington
Located just northwest of downtown Columbus, Upper Arlington is a well-established community with a population of around 35,000. With a median home value of approximately $572,000 and a average household income of around $190,000, Upper Arlington offers a balance of affordability and prosperity.
Moving to Upper Arlington, Ohio, ensures families a nurturing environment with excellent schools, a strong sense of community, and easy access to downtown Columbus, providing a perfect blend of suburban tranquility and urban convenience for an optimal upbringing.
With its proximity to downtown Columbus, excellent schools, and a strong sense of community, Upper Arlington provides families with a suburban sanctuary while maintaining easy access to urban amenities.
Fun Fact
The Upper Arlington Labor Day Arts Festival is a beloved annual event, showcasing the town’s commitment to the arts and community engagement.
Parks: Fancyburg Park is popular for its sports facilities and green spaces.
Hospitals: Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center is renowned for its medical care.
Schools: Upper Arlington City School District boasts high-quality education and diverse programs.
Other Amenities: The community has a rich array of local businesses and community events, fostering a strong sense of belonging.
Neighborhoods
Canterbury and South of Lane are known for their family-friendly ambiance and proximity to top-rated schools.
6. South Russell
Population: 3,962
South Russell, a charming suburb of Cleveland with a population of 3,962, offers a semi-rural living experience that appeals to families seeking a peaceful yet connected lifestyle. One of the town’s standout amenities is Bell Street Park, a family-friendly park that provides the perfect setting for picnics and outdoor fun. It’s a hub for local gatherings and community events, fostering a strong sense of belonging.
For education, the Chagrin Falls Exempted Village School District serves the South Russell area and is well-known for its commitment to strong academic programs. Parents can be confident that their children will receive a quality education.
In terms of healthcare, the nearby University Hospitals Chagrin Highlands Health Center ensures that residents have access to comprehensive medical services, guaranteeing their well-being.
South Russell’s close proximity to Chagrin Falls adds to its charm. Residents can easily explore the neighboring town’s additional shopping, dining, and cultural events, enhancing the overall living experience.
7. Madeira
Population: 9,397
Madeira, a welcoming community near Cincinnati with a population of 9,397, is ideal for families seeking a family-oriented lifestyle. The town places a strong emphasis on community spaces and one of the most cherished is Sellman Park. This park, complete with playgrounds and sports fields, is a favorite local spot for families. It provides a perfect backdrop for picnics, sports activities, and outdoor enjoyment.
Madeira City Schools are highly rated, offering strong academic programs that prioritize student success. Parents can trust in the quality of education their children receive in this community.
For healthcare needs, facilities like the Jewish Hospital – Mercy Health are readily available, ensuring that medical services are accessible to residents.
Madeira’s small-town charm is complemented by its friendly street festivals and a variety of local businesses. These events and businesses contribute to a vibrant community spirit, making residents feel right at home.
8. Oakwood
Population: 9,470
Oakwood, a suburb of Dayton with a population of 9,470, is known for its historic homes and tight-knit community. The town’s sense of belonging is palpable, where neighbors become friends, and everyone feels like family.
Families in Oakwood can take advantage of Orchardly Park, a popular destination known for its playgrounds and splash pad. Children have a blast playing here, especially during the summer months.
Oakwood City School District is one of the best in the area, recognized for its strong academic and extracurricular programs. Students receive a well-rounded education that prepares them for future success.
Kettering Health Network serves as the primary healthcare provider for Oakwood residents, ensuring that healthcare needs are met with quality care and convenience.
Oakwood’s community events, including local festivals and gatherings, add to its appeal as a family-friendly town. These events bring residents together and foster a strong sense of community. Additionally, the town features a variety of local shops and businesses, making it easy for families to find everything they need within their own neighborhood.
These towns, including South Russell, Madeira, and Oakwood, offer a wide range of amenities and a welcoming atmosphere, making them ideal choices for families looking for a high quality of life and a strong sense of community.
Conclusion
In conclusion, these small towns in Ohio stand out not only for their impressive statistics but for the intangible qualities that make them exceptional places to raise a family. Whether it’s the rich history of Granville, the community values of Powell, the suburban oasis of Solon, the perfect blend of modernity and tradition in Dublin, or the suburban sanctuary of Upper Arlington, each town offers a unique experience. Moving to these towns isn’t just a change of address; it’s a decision to embrace a lifestyle that prioritizes family, community, and a high quality of life.
