3 Most Affordable and Safe Neighborhoods to Live in Ohio

Research identifies Ada, Seven Hills, and Minerva as standout neighborhoods in Ohio for their exceptional affordability and safety. These communities offer median home prices of $230,000, $180,000, and $160,000 respectively, making them accessible housing options in the Buckeye State. Each neighborhood provides residents with a high quality of life characterized by strong community bonds, convenient access to amenities, and quality educational institutions. 

These factors make these locations particularly attractive to families and retirees seeking a balance of affordability and community connection. Analysis confirms these areas maintain a cost of living below or near the national average, though potential residents should note that housing prices may fluctuate based on local market demand.

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Neighborhood Overview

Ohio, known for its diverse landscapes and active communities, offers several neighborhoods that balance affordability and safety. Below, we explore three notable areas—Ada, Seven Hills, and Minerva—each providing a unique living experience with low crime rates and reasonable housing costs.

• Ada, Ohio: Ada is a small village located in Hardin County with a population of about 5,300, known for its tight-knit community and charming downtown.

• Seven Hills, Ohio: Seven Hills is a suburb of Cleveland with around 11,700 residents, offering a peaceful residential environment.
• Minerva, Ohio: Minerva, the county seat of Stark County, has a population of about 3,700 and is known for its historic downtown and welcoming atmosphere.

Detailed Analysis of Affordable and Safe Neighborhoods in Ohio

Ohio,  the heart of the Midwest, is rich in history and presents a variety of neighborhoods that cater to those seeking affordability and safety. This survey takes a closer look into three neighborhoods—Ada, Seven Hills, and Minerva—selected based on comprehensive research into housing costs, crime statistics, and quality of life indicators. These areas, identified through data from sources like Zillow, Redfin, and local government reports, offer a blend of economic accessibility and security, making them ideal for families, retirees, and young professionals.

Methodology: The selection process involved analyzing median home prices, rental rates, crime rates, and cost of living indices, ensuring a balance between affordability (below or near the state median of $231,100) and safety (crime rates below state and national averages). Data was sourced from reputable platforms, including real estate market reports and FBI crime statistics, to provide a holistic view.

1. Seven Hills, Ohio: Suburban Convenience

A. Neighborhood Overview and History
Seven Hills, a suburb of Cleveland in Cuyahoga County, has a population of about 11,700. Incorporated as a village in 1927 and as a city in 1961, it has grown into a thriving community known for its safety and family-friendly atmosphere. It offers a blend of residential and commercial areas, with a median age of 50 years, indicating a mature population.

B. Affordability Metrics

• Median Home Price: Approximately $180,000, which is below the state median, making it affordable.
• Cost of Living: While specific indices vary, the median household income in 2000 was $54,413, suggesting a reasonable cost of living for the area, supported by local economic opportunities.

C. Safety and Security

• Crime Rate: With a crime rate of 8 per 1,000 residents, Seven Hills is 87% safer than other cities in Ohio. 
• Police Presence: The Seven Hills Police Department is noted for its efficiency, with community engagement programs enhancing safety, as seen in local government reports.

D. Amenities and Attractions

• Parks and Recreation: West Creek Reservation and several other parks in the area are available, providing green spaces for residents.
• Shopping and Dining: Access to a variety of shopping options and eateries, benefiting from its proximity to Cleveland.
• Education: Served by the Seven Hills City School District, known for its quality education, though specific school ratings were not detailed in the data.

E. Lifestyle and Suitability
Seven Hills is a great fit for families and professionals looking for a peaceful suburban vibe with easy access to the city. With a solid safety record and just a 15-minute drive to Cleveland, it’s perfect for raising kids while keeping your commute manageable.

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2. Ada, Ohio: A Small-Town Gem

A. Neighborhood Overview and History
Ada, located in Hardin County, is a quaint city with a population of approximately 5,300. Established in 1853, The city is home to Ohio Northern University, founded in 1871, which adds a vibrant educational and cultural element to the community. Notable visits include President William Howard Taft in 1910 and Martin Luther King Jr. in January 1968.

B. Affordability Metrics

• Median Home Price: Around $230,000, based on recent real estate market trends.
• Average Rent: Data from Realtor.com indicates an average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment at $700, adding to the appeal of affordability for renters.
• Cost of Living Index: At 85% of the national average, Ada’s cost of living is notably lower, allowing residents to enjoy a higher disposable income.

C. Safety and Security

• Crime Rate: In 2019, only 27 crimes were reported, or490 per 100,000 people, which is 92% lower than the national average and well below Ohio’s average of 2,349 per 100,000. Violent crimes are exceedingly low, with property crimes accounting for about 89% of all offenses.
• Police Presence: The Ada Police Department maintains a visible and responsive presence, contributing to the city’s safety.

D. Amenities and Attractions

• Outdoor Recreation: Van Buren State Park offers ample opportunities for hiking, fishing, and picnicking, enhancing the quality of life.
• Community Events: The Ada Community Festival and Holiday Lights Parade, as mentioned on the city’s official website, foster community engagement and provide cultural enrichment.
• Education: The Ada Exempted Village School District is highly rated, with above average scores in the curriculum. Ohio Northern University also provides higher education options, attracting young professionals and students.

E. Lifestyle and Suitability
Ada is ideal for those seeking a peaceful environment, with a strong emphasis on community involvement. It’s particularly appealing to retirees and families, offering a safe, affordable, and friendly environment. The 20-minute commute to Ohio State University at Lima also benefits young professionals and students.

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3. Minerva, Ohio: Historic and Affordable

A. Neighborhood Overview and History
Minerva, the county seat of Stark County, has a population of about 3,700. This quaint village, established in 1833, by John Whitacre, was named after his niece, Minerva Ann Taylor. Its early economy was driven by the Sandy and Beaver Canal and later the Pennsylvania Railroad in the 1840s, with the first steel railroad car patented by Willard and Isaac Pennock in the 19th century.

B. Affordability Metrics

• Median Home Price: Around $160,000, which is below the state median, making it highly affordable.
• Average Rent: Estimated at $700 for a 1-bedroom apartment, as per local listings on Zillow, it’s budget-friendly for renters.
• Cost of Living Index: At 80% of the national average, Minerva offers significant savings on everyday expenses.

C. Safety and Security

• Crime Rate: With a crime rate of 8 per 1,000 residents, Minerva is 45% safer than other Ohio communities of similar size.  Violent crimes are 33% lower than the national average.
• Police Presence: There are 14 police officers serving the community, ensuring a proactive approach to safety.

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D. Amenities and Attractions

• Historic Sites: featuring The Haas Museum and historical landmarks, provides a cultural hub, as per the city’s tourism site.
• Parks and Recreation: Minerva Park and other local parks offer recreational opportunities, as listed on the city’s recreation page.
• Education: Served by the Minerva Local School District, with schools like Minerva Elementary, Middle, and High School providing quality education.

E. Lifestyle and Suitability
Minerva is perfect for those who value history and community, suitable for retirees, families, and anyone seeking an affordable, safe small-town life.  Being just about 30 minutes from Canton, Minerva offers easy access to city amenities whenever you need them.

Conclusion

Ada, Seven Hills, and Minerva stand out as Ohio’s most affordable and safe neighborhoods, offering diverse lifestyles from small-town charm to suburban convenience. Each provides a high quality of life, with low crime rates, reasonable housing costs, and easy access to amenities, making them excellent choices for prospective residents