Set within the farms and woodlands that fill the landscape north of Columbus, the city of Delaware started as a hard-scrabble settlement in the early 1800s. Like many of the towns surrounding Ohio's capital, it saw an industrial boom that began in the middle of the 20th century and has continued steadily since. But even as the city grows, locals hope to maintain a level of rural hospitality they see as part of their roots. "We're a suburban community that's close to the amenities of Columbus, but we're set aside enough that you have that smaller town feel," says Catlin Frazier, a councilwoman for the city.
Delaware is set within the farms and woodlands that fill the landscape north of Columbus.
The city of Delaware started as a hard-scrabble settlement in the early 1800s.
Relax at Henmick Farm & Brewery, a full-service taproom for gather outdoors.
Delaware Skatepark is a great place to spend time with friends.
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An industrial hub that continues to grow
The automotive industry has been Delaware's professional backbone for decades, with leading employers like Advance Auto, Jegs and PPG Industries maintaining distribution centers in the area. Other top job creators include Ohio Wesleyan University, OhioHealth and the local government and public school system. As tech giants like Intel put the final touches on microchip factories in the area, local leaders expect to see a concentrated boom in population. "Like many communities in Central Ohio, we're going to see that 'Intel effect,'" says Frazier. "Anywhere within 40 miles of the company should expect a lot of growth." This growth has made Delaware the fastest-growing county in Ohio and among the top 25 fastest in the nation. As a result, local and state governments plan to expand area infrastructure and renovate nearby highways.
OhioHealth Grady Memorial Hospital delivers high-level care to our Delaware community.
The automotive industry has been Delaware's professional backbone for decades.
PPG Industries maintains distribution centers in Delaware.
Delaware the fastest-growing county in Ohio and among the top 25 fastest in the nation.
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Award-winning school districts and historic homes
The Historic Northwestern Neighborhood is the site of some of Delaware's oldest and most admired homes, including beautifully renovated Victorians and Tudors. Midcentury Cape Cods and ranch-style houses are common near Mingo Park, and the latest contemporary construction fills newer communities like Springer Woods. The average value for a home in Delaware is in the mid-$400,000s, lower than the national average in the mid-$500,000s. Existing homes range in price from the low $200,000s to the low $800,000s. New construction starts in the low $300,000s and maxes out in the low $800,000s.
Delaware contains two school districts: Delaware City Schools, which covers the majority of the city, and Olentangy Local School District, which takes care of expanding regions in the southeast. Delaware City Schools has a B-rating from Niche and received the Ohio Department of Education and Workforce's "Exceeds School Standards" rating. "We're particularly proud of our partnerships with Ohio Wesleyan University and Columbus State University," says Director of Communications for Delaware City Schools, Jennifer Ruhes. "We offer several post-secondary options to students that reduce the cost of college courses."
The Olentangy Local School District has an A-plus from Niche, which lists it as one of the ten best school districts in Ohio and the fifth best for athletics. In 2024, the district received a five-star rating from the state of Ohio for the second year in a row. It was only one of two districts with over 10,000 students to achieve this honor.
Ohio Wesleyan University was founded in 1844 and serves over 1,500 students a year with over 70 undergraduate majors and 24 varsity sports.
New construction in Delaware starts in the low $300,000s and maxes out in the low $800,000s.
New contemporary construction in Delaware fills newer communities like Springer Woods.
The Historic Northwestern Neighborhood is the site of some of Delaware's oldest and most adm
Midcentury Cape Cods and ranch-style houses in Delaware are common near Mingo Park.
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Harness Racing and one of the oldest restaurants in Ohio
Local attractions include The Strand Theatre, Arena Fair Theatre, Meeker Homestead Museum and Ross Art Museum. The city's historic downtown is home to Bun's Restaurant, one of the oldest restaurants in Ohio. Established in 1864, this Delaware landmark offers laid-back diner fare in a family-friendly atmosphere.
Mingo Park's athletic fields are some of the area's most popular spots on Saturday mornings when the youth soccer league season is in session. The 50-acre green space is also home to canoe launch points into the Olentangy River, a skate park and recent expansions for pickleball. Smith Park features multiple playgrounds, a stocked fishing pond and multiple baseball and softball fields.
The Little Brown Jug is the area's largest annual event, regularly attracting as many as 45,000 attendees. Founded in 1946, the Triple Crown harness horse racing event is held in the Delaware County Fairgrounds every third Thursday after Labor Day. "It brings in some of the biggest crowds in Central Ohio," says Frazier.
Delaware's Ohio Wesleyan University was founded in 1844 and serves over 1,500 students.
Bun's Restaurant in Delaware, is one of the oldest restaurants in Ohio.
The Strand Theatre, is a movie theater located in downtown Delaware.
Harness racing happens year round at the Delaware Fairgrounds track.
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Improvements on the way for Columbus commute
The city is intersected by U.S. Routes 23, 36 and 42, along with Ohio Route 37, creating convenient commutes. Columbus and John Glenn Columbus International Airport are 30 miles south—a fact relevant to the majority of the city's locals. "Eighty percent of our residents actually work outside of the city, so we've got that usual traffic and rush hour during peak times of the day," says Catlin Frazier. "But we're working with the county and state levels on infrastructure progress to increase traffic in areas where there's a lot of movement." John Glenn International sees over 150 flights daily, providing access to cities like Atlanta, Paris and Las Vegas. Delaware County Transit offers scheduled ride services throughout the week but does not offer a fixed route bussing system.
Important to know
According to the Federal Bureau of Investigations, Delaware's property crime instances in 2023 were 53 percent lower than Ohio's and 58 percent lower than the United States overall. In the same year, violent crime in Delaware was 51 percent lower than Ohio's and 47 percent lower than the nation's.
Locals refer to Delaware as a "four-season city," with warm summers, snowfall, and rainfall on par with other areas in Ohio.
Written By
Phil Keeling
Photography Contributed By
Sam Blythe
Video By
Max Gilmore
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Carlton Shaffer,
an experienced agent in this area.
GreatSchools:
The GreatSchools Rating helps parents compare schools within a state based on a variety of school quality indicators and provides a helpful picture of how effectively each school serves all of its students. Ratings are on a scale of 1 (below average) to 10 (above average) and can include test scores, college readiness, academic progress, advanced courses, equity, discipline and attendance data. We also advise parents to visit schools, consider other information on school performance and programs, and consider family needs as part of the school selection process.
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On average, homes in Delaware, OH sell after 222 days on the market compared to the national average of 55 days. The median sale price for homes in Delaware, OH over the last 12 months is $436,990, up 4% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
You'll enjoy plenty of multifunctional space in this well designed 2-story home featuring 5 bedrooms, 3 baths, and an open kitchen/breakfast area open to the great room. The second floor has a conveniently located laundry room and the owner's bedroom has its own private bath with a large walk-in closet. You'll love the curb appeal of the exterior architectural designs create for this floor plan.
Discover this stunning new construction home at 634 Alicia Kelton Drive in a prime location in Delaware. This impressive 3,084 square foot home offers exceptional design quality and thoughtful details throughout. The thoughtful floorplan design makes excellent use of the generous square footage, creating distinct areas for various activities while maintaining the home's open feel. This home
Step into the Henley--a spacious 5-bedroom, 3-bath home designed for modern living. This new construction home in Central Ohio offers energy efficiency, Smart Home℠ Technology, and a builder warranty for peace of mind. The main level includes a great room, dining area, and modern kitchen with stainless steel appliances, an oversized island, and a walk-in pantry. A home office or flex room,
CALLING FOR OFFERS between now and 5:00 pm March 16, 2026. Seller reserves the right to accept any offer at any time. Don't miss your opportunity to own this retreat within the City of Delaware. Situated on approximately 1.19 acres and also ZONED COMMERCIAL! This two-level raised ranch offers 3 bedrooms, remodeled kitchen and full bath, newer windows / roof, updated deck and swimming pool. The
Welcome to 529 Rochdale Run, a well maintained home in a desirable Delaware neighborhood. This 3 bed 2.5 bath home single family home is only two years old! The functional layout is filled with natural light and offers comfortable living spaces throughout. Enjoy a large backyard with patio perfect for relaxing and entertaining. Close to shopping, dining, as well as several parks and trails. This
Lot #2 is beautiful 2.6 acre wooded lot in Olentangy School District with a private driveway! This parcel is tucked away from all roads and surrounded by tall trees. Utilities that are available are AEP, Suburban Natural Gas, and Del-co water. Conveniently located minutes from shops, restaurants, schools, and the Alum Creek Marina!
Discover practical comfort in this well-laid-out manufactured home located in the friendly Crystal Lake Community - Lot 139 This 3-bedroom, 2-bath double-wide offers approximately 1,324 square feet of thoughtfully designed living space, making it an excellent option for those who want both functionality and affordability. Inside, the home features a smart layout that makes the most of every
Property DescriptionDon't miss out on this opportunity to own your own home in The Ravine in Delaware. Build to suit with many options available at all price points for any budget.
🏡 Featured Home: The Sunrise... Discover this brand new home with 3-bedrooms, 2-bath homes offering almost 1,000 square feet of beautifully designed living space on a desirable lot that backs to the river. This model showcases modern craftsmanship, quality materials, and thoughtful details that make daily living both comfortable and stylish. Centrally located in Delaware, Ohio, Shroyer
Discover practical comfort in this well-laid-out manufactured home located in the friendly Crystal Lake Community - Lot 8 This 3-bedroom, 2-bath double-wide offers approximately 1,404 square feet of thoughtfully designed living space, making it an excellent option for those who want both functionality and affordability. Inside, the home features a smart layout that makes the most of every square
Most people don't realize indoor air can be 2-3× more polluted than the air outside — but this high-performance home is designed to change that. With an exceptionally airtight structure and an advanced ventilation system that delivers a steady supply of fresh, filtered air, this home helps reduce indoor pollutants, humidity, and allergens. Cleaner indoor air can support a stronger immune system,
Discover practical comfort in this well-laid-out manufactured home located in the friendly Crystal Lake Community - Lot 74. This 3-bedroom, 2-bath single-wide offers approximately 1,140 square feet of thoughtfully designed living space, making it an excellent option for those who want both functionality and affordability. Inside, the home features a smart layout that makes the most of every
An opportunity to build a custom high-performance home on 2.2 scenic acres on quiet Ford Road in Delaware. This 5-bedroom, 4.5-bath residence blends modern farmhouse character with intentional design, offering expansive living spaces in a peaceful country setting just minutes from Dublin, Powell, and downtown Delaware. At the heart of the home, a dramatic two-story great room creates an open,
🏡 Featured Home: The Cedar Cove Discover The Cedar Cove, a brand-new 3-bedroom, 2-bath home offering over 1,200 square feet of beautifully designed living space on a desirable corner lot. This model showcases modern craftsmanship, quality materials, and thoughtful details that make daily living both comfortable and stylish. Centrally located in Delaware, Ohio, Shroyer Homes offers the
Discover this brand new home with 3-bedrooms, 2-bath homes offering almost 1,200 square feet of beautifully designed living space on a desirable lot that backs to the river. This model showcases modern craftsmanship, quality materials, and thoughtful details that make daily living both comfortable and stylish. Centrally located in Delaware, Ohio, Shroyer Homes offers the ideal blend of comfort,
Troy Farms offers spacious one and two bedroom apartments along with two bedroom townhomes in Delaware, OH. Our community is pet friendly and offers highly desired amenities such as a fitness center, sparkling pool with outdoor picnic area and a grilling station, a community clubhouse, scenic walking trails, and so much more. Our apartments and townhomes feature beautiful finishes like vinyl wood
Welcome to Maple Court Apartments, a small apartment complex in the heart of Delaware.This is an upstairs apartment featuring 2 bedrooms 1 Bath. New Paint, New Appliances, New Carpet, lots of upgrades. We are close to the laundry, shopping, restaurants and on the bus line. Serious inquiries only. Check us out!
Welcome Home to Seattle House, a beautiful Ardent Community! Located along State Route 36, just east of Downtown Delaware, Seattle House offers the perfect blend of convenience and comfort. With easy access to major routes like I-71, Route 23, and 315, youre never far from everything you need. Plus, youll find great shopping at the new Glenwood Commons Shopping Center, as well as plenty of dining
Looking for a move-in ready apartment within walking distance to all downtown Delaware has to offer? Look no further! Featuring wood floors and many original deatils, this 2 bedroom charmer has been lovingly updated. One bedroom on the 1st floor and 2nd bedroom upstairs. Washer and dryer hook up, fully applianced and light, bright airy rooms! Private entrance, front porch and backyard to play in!
Welcome to The Flats on Houk, where elevated living meets luxury needs and modern sensibilities! Located in the reputable city of Delaware, our property features innovative amenities like Amazon lockers, electric car charging stations and a pet washing space paired with eco-friendly designs and exquisite designer finishes. Come home to one of our newly built floorplans with gourmet kitchens and
Nice 2 story, 2 bedroom 1.5 bathroom property with a 1 car attached garage. Living room has sliding door access to the large back yard (backs to Olentangy River). Also the main bedroom balcony overlooking the back yard.
Welcome to Village Gates of Delaware, a pet-friendly, gated community offering spacious one, two, and three-bedroom ranch-style and townhome apartments designed for your comfort. Our residences feature modern amenities such as air conditioning, oversized closets, washer and dryer connections, and high-speed internet access. Residents can enjoy a range of community amenities, including a fitness
Welcome to your Lehner Woods home! Enjoy open-concept living in this freestanding condominium with updated finishes. The main level features luxury vinyl plank flooring throughout and includes a great room with fireplace, kitchen with granite counters and stainless steel appliances, half bathroom, and a laundry room with included washer and dryer. Also on the main level is an owner's suite with
Welcome to The Flats at Sugar Run, where luxury meets purpose in Delaware, Ohio. Our new apartments in Delaware, Ohio, offer refined one, two, and three-bedroom floor plans plus townhomes designed for modern living with natural serenity. Each home features luxury vinyl plank flooring, quartz countertops, and stainless-steel appliances in open-concept layouts perfect for young professionals.
Welcome to this nearly new ranch home in one of Delaware's most desirable communities. Offering 1,740 sq ft of single-level living, this home features an open floor plan, abundant natural light, and neutral finishes throughout. The kitchen includes stainless steel appliances, ample cabinetry, and generous counter space, opening to the dining and living areas. The primary suite offers a walk-in
Welcome to Burr Oak Commons, where you'll enjoy maintenance-free living in a socially engaged community. Enjoy all the perks of a spacious, modern home, without the constraints of homeownership. Our single-story homes are designed with open layouts, 13' ceilings and abundant windows, creating bright and airy interiors. Whether you choose a one or two-bedroom home, you'll find ample space and
This beautifully finished end-unit Terra Alta townhome, built in 2024, is located in the highly desirable Terra Alta neighborhood in Delaware, residents enjoy access to a state-of-the-art clubhouse with a common room, fitness center, and resort-style pool.Inside, the home features three levels of light-filled living with an open floor plan, high ceilings and a seamless feel connecting the
With miles of open, undeveloped green space and some farm animals as neighbors, Troy Township, just north of the city of Delaware, about 40 miles north of Columbus, is an area that’s gaining increased appeal. “Old and young find rural areas attractive for different reasons,” says Janelle Blue, a Realtor with knowledge of the Delaware area who’s been selling homes for nearly 10 years. “Older folks like it for the slower pace, and younger families like it for the affordability and the access to a better school district.” Route 23 is a central north-south corridor running through the township, but the goal is to preserve the rural aspect of the area.
On the eastern side of Route 23, Delaware Lake spills into the northern part of the Olentangy River, meaning some homes feature waterfront property, whether the lake or river. The majority will have between 2 and 10 acres of land with Cape Cod, ranch-style and split-level architecture styles. Southern portions of the township closer to the city of Delaware could have pockets of more contemporary homes that are closer together but still on large parcels of land. The price ranges from $300,000 to $600,000, with the price per square foot just above $200. “Another attractive piece for younger people is that often they’re priced out of the homes closer to the city, and the property taxes here are lower,” Blue says. The typical home in Troy Township will have three to four bedrooms, a three-car garage, at least a partial basement and between 1,500 and 3,000 square feet of living space.
Students in the southern half of the township closer to the city of Delaware could attend schools in the Delaware City School District, with a B overall grade on Niche. David Smith Elementary School also gets a B and has a 19-to-1 student-to-teacher ratio. Students at the B-minus John Dempsey Middle School can be introduced to foreign language classes and extra-curricular activities like band or chorus. Rutherford B. Hayes High School has a B rating on Niche and has a graduation rate of 94%. Buckeye Valley East Elementary Buckeye Valley Middle and High Schools are all part of the Buckeye Valley Local School District. The middle and high schools get B overall Niche grades, while Buckeye Valley East Elementary has a B-minus. Buckeye Valley High School is in Troy Township, and the four-year graduation rate is 92%.
The parks in Delaware County, including Troy Township, are unique because their focus is preservation, whether it be wildlife or history. Gallant Farm Preservation Park is a Depression-era farm with period furnishings, an 1890s barn and costumed interpreters completing the day's chores. Special events during the year include an antique tractor show and special winter activities. Across Buttermilk Hill Road is Gallant Woods, also part of the county’s Preservation system. Owls are typical in the woods, and bodies of water in the park attract shorebirds, like sandpipers.
It’s a short drive south to the city of Delaware, where Opa Grill & Tavern is located. With the word Opa, a common celebratory term in Greece, it’s no wonder this restaurant features Greek staples like gyros and lamb. Still, they also have burgers, pasta and vegetarian options. Kroger and ALDI are two grocery stores on the northern end of Delaware.
Delaware County Transit offers rides to people in the county to destinations within Delaware County from 6 am to 6 pm. Rides can be scheduled in advance by calling or scheduling the pickup online. The Delaware County Transit Board operates the service. It’s a 45-minute trip to downtown Columbus and 40 minutes to John Glenn Columbus International Airport.
Property Mix - Square Feet
Delaware Has More Owners
Demographics
Total Population
48,568
Median Age
39
Population under 18
25.3%
On par with the national average
23.8%
Population over 65
15.7%
On par with the national average
19.1%
Finances
Median Household Income
$82,106
On par with the national average
$79,601
Average Household Income
$98,160
Education and Workforce
High School Graduates
95.4%
College Graduates
42.1%
Above the national average
34.1%
Advanced Degrees
16.4%
% Population in Labor Force
72.3%
Above the national average
64.9%
Weather
Annual Precipitation
38''
Average Winter Low Temperature
19°F
Average Summer High Temperature
85°F
Annual Snowfall
28''
Area Factors
Somewhat friendly
Bike Score®®
30/ 100
Fairly friendly
Walk Score®®
40/ 100
Source: Local Logic
Sources: Local Logic
Local Logic measures the walkability, access to public transit and bikeability of any address. CAP Index provides objective, accurate, and consistent data to help measure, compare, and mitigate crime risks.
Disclaimer: Certain information contained herein is derived from information provided by parties other than Homes.com. Our sources include: Accuweather, Public Records and Neustar. All information provided is deemed reliable, but is not guaranteed to be accurate and should be independently verified.
