If you’re thinking about moving to Ohio, bustling cities like Cleveland and Columbus might come to mind, but the Buckeye State has much more to offer. From quaint downtowns filled with local shops and cafes to festivals that bring everyone together, Ohio’s small towns are a perfect escape for anyone looking to experience the heart and soul of the state. In this Redfin article, we’ll discuss 10 charming small towns in Ohio—each with its own unique character and plenty of reasons to visit or even call home.
1. Pataskala, OH
Median sale price: $375,000 | Average rent for 1-bedroom apartment: $1,595
Homes for sale in Pataskala | Apartments for rent in Pataskala
Pataskala is a growing town with a close-knit community. The town’s downtown area features local shops and eateries, like the popular Nutcracker Family Restaurant. If you’re into outdoor activities, you’ll love the town’s proximity to the scenic Lobdell Reserve, offering miles of trails for hiking and birdwatching. Living in Pataskala means enjoying the best of small-town life while still being within a short drive of Columbus for more urban amenities.
2. Baltimore, OH
Median sale price: $310,950 | Average rent for 1-bedroom apartment: N/A
Homes for sale in Baltimore | Apartments for rent in Baltimore
Baltimore may be small, but it’s packed with character and history. The town is best known for the Baltimore Festival, a beloved annual event in August featuring parades, live music, and local crafts. Locals take pride in their community, with well-maintained parks like Johnson Park serving as a central hub for outdoor activities. Located in the heart of Fairfield County, Baltimore offers a peaceful lifestyle, with easy access to larger cities like Lancaster and Columbus.
3. Circleville, OH
Median sale price: $213,000 | Average rent for 1-bedroom apartment: $870
Homes for sale in Circleville | Apartments for rent in Circleville
If Circleville sounds familiar, then you know about the town’s annual Pumpkin Show, one of the largest festivals in the region. The town transforms into a pumpkin lover’s paradise, complete with giant pumpkin displays, parades, and delicious pumpkin-flavored treats. Beyond the festival, Circleville has a quaint downtown with historic buildings, charming boutiques, and friendly locals. Living here offers a true sense of community, where neighbors know each other by name, and there’s always something new to experience.
4. Geneva, OH
Median sale price: $179,000 | Average rent for 1-bedroom apartment: $675
Homes for sale in Geneva | Apartments for rent in Geneva
Located along the shores of Lake Erie, Geneva is a perfect place for those looking to live in a beautiful lake town in Ohio. Additionally, the town is home to several award-winning wineries, including Ferrante Winery & Ristorante, where locals and tourists enjoy tasting the region’s finest wines. Looking for more to do? Spend the afternoon strolling through Geneva’s charming downtown featuring historic buildings and boutique shops.
5. Logan, OH
Median sale price: $170,000 | Average rent for 1-bedroom apartment: N/A
Homes for sale in Logan | Apartments for rent in Logan
Logan is the kind of town where you instantly feel at home. With its location in the heart of Hocking Hills, it’s an outdoor lover’s paradise. Whether you’re hiking through Old Man’s Cave or cooling off in the natural pools of Cedar Falls, there’s always an adventure waiting just outside your door. And if you love small-town festivals, don’t miss the Logan’s Washboard Music Festival which celebrates the town’s unique history with washboard manufacturing.
6. New Lexington, OH
Median sale price: $132,000 | Average rent for 1-bedroom apartment: N/A
Homes for sale in New Lexington | Apartments for rent in New Lexington
In New Lexington, life moves at a comfortable pace, perfect for those who appreciate a tight-knit community. Walking through downtown, you’ll find mom-and-pop shops and local eateries where everyone knows each other. The annual Perry County Fair is the highlight of the year, offering everything from livestock shows to demolition derbies. It’s small-town living at its best, where tradition and community are at the core of daily life.
7. Wapakoneta, OH
Median sale price: $160,000 | Average rent for 1-bedroom apartment: $750
Homes for sale in Wapakoneta | Apartments for rent in Wapakoneta
Wapakoneta might be best known as the birthplace of Neil Armstrong, but there’s so much more to this town than its famous astronaut. The Armstrong Air & Space Museum is a must-visit, but what really makes Wapak special is the strong sense of community you feel everywhere you go. While you’re here, be sure to check out the annual Summer Moon Festival for parades, concerts, and moon pie-eating contests,
8. Delphos, OH
Median sale price: $158,000 | Average rent for 1-bedroom apartment: N/A
Homes for sale in Delphos | Apartments for rent in Delphos
Delphos’ historic downtown area is filled with beautifully preserved buildings that house a mix of local shops, restaurants, and businesses, giving the town its classic Midwestern feel. The Canal Days Festival is a big deal around here, celebrating the town’s rich canal history with parades, live music, and plenty of good food. Whether you’re catching up with friends at a local diner or enjoying a quiet evening by the canal, life in Delphos is all about enjoying the simple pleasures.
9. Columbus Grove, OH
Median sale price: $128,500 | Average rent for 1-bedroom apartment: N/A
Homes for sale in Columbus Grove | Apartments for rent in Columbus Grove
Columbus Grove is a small, close-knit village located in Putnam County. With a population of just over 2,000 residents, this town has a strong community and friendly atmosphere. Life here revolves around local traditions, with the annual Firemen’s Festival being one of the biggest events of the year. The village is also passionate about its local sports teams, particularly the Columbus Grove Bulldogs. You can find the whole town cheering on their home team during football season.
10. Louisville, OH
Median sale price: $226,500 | Average rent for 1-bedroom apartment: N/A
Homes for sale in Louisville | Apartments for rent in Louisville
Often referred to as the “Constitution Town,” Louisville has a deep sense of pride in its patriotic roots. This nickname comes from the town’s history of initiating Constitution Day, which is still celebrated each year. The annual Constitution Festival is a highlight, featuring parades, fireworks, and educational activities that honor the town’s heritage. The town also offers plenty of outdoor spaces, like Metzger Park, where locals enjoy walking, biking, and picnicking.
Methodology: The median home sale price and average monthly rental data is from the Redfin Data Center.
