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
Kristina Murphy,
an experienced agent in this area.
GreatSchools:
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On average, homes in Delaware, OH sell after 217 days on the market compared to the national average of 57 days. The median sale price for homes in Delaware, OH over the last 12 months is $445,000, up 6% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
ONLINE AUCTION, the RESERVE (Minimum Bid) is $150,000. The auction ends at 7:00 PM, Tuesday, May 12th, 2026. BUYERS MUST SIGN ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF TERMS to bid. Agents, please see 'A2A'. This 4-bedroom, 2.5-bath home sits on approximately 1.42± acres. Built in 2012, the home offers approximately 2,550 square feet of living space above grade and 800 square feet in the basement. The square footage
ONLINE AUCTION, the RESERVE (Minimum Bid) is $150,000. The auction ends at 7:00 PM, Tuesday, May 20th, 2026. BUYERS MUST SIGN ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF TERMS to bid. Step back in time and appreciate all the unique features this 4 BR, 2 BA, 2,229 sq ft brick home built in 1860 has to offer. What a tremendous opportunity to own a piece of history, in a lovely setting, walking distance to all the downtown
OPEN HOUSE Sunday 5/3/2026 12:00-2:00 PM! Charming renovated century home in the heart of Delaware. Easy access to local shops, dining and parks as well as Ohio Wesleyan University. This home has too many upgrades to mention and offers 3 BR's, 2-1/2 baths and an upstairs loft. New doors, windows, siding, electrical service and panel, pre-wired for CAT6 Ethernet. All new plumbing, HVAC, tankless
ALMOST NEW!!! Barely lived in, built in 2023, seller paid the ''new build expenses'' - window blinds, new washer/dryer/upgraded dishwasher, alarm system, (3) tall pantry/storage cabinets (may stay -negotiable). Pad is poured for Shed. Builder is building this floor plan for $25k more. Not prepared to buy the custom new build? This is the best of all worlds. Super nice complex - very well
Escape the hustle and bustle without sacrificing convenience. This newly remodeled colonial sits on over 6 gorgeous acres less than ten minutes from Polaris Parkway, offering the a rare lifestyle of rural serenity and suburban accessibility. Step inside to discover four bedrooms, three beautifully updated bathrooms, and new flooring throughout. The kitchen shines with granite countertops, a large
The Brentwood, a Homestead Collection floor plan, boasts a spacious 2,783 sq. ft. 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
Welcome to the Brentwood, a stunning new-construction home offering 2,697 square feet of luxurious living space. This two-story home is perfect for a modern family, featuring four bedrooms, two and a half baths, and a spacious, open-concept design. The main level is an entertainer's dream, with a gourmet kitchen that flows seamlessly into the breakfast area and great room. You'll also find a
ONLINE AUCTION, the RESERVE (Minimum Bid) is $150,000. The auction ends at 7:00 PM, Tuesday, May 12th, 2026. BUYERS MUST SIGN ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF TERMS to bid. Agents, please see 'A2A'. This 4-bedroom, 2.5-bath home sits on approximately 1.42± acres. Built in 2012, the home offers approximately 2,550 square feet of living space above grade and 800 square feet in the basement. The square footage
This 2,045 sq. ft. Charleston offers a distinct architectural Craftsman style with three bedrooms and 2.5 baths. The bright, open floor plan features a huge great room, a large eat-in kitchen, and a luxurious owner's suite with a massive walk-in closet. Included Features: Poured Wall Full Basement, Spacious Dinette/Breakfast Area, 2-Car Garage, Private Den with Double Doors, Aristokraft Kitchen
Discover the perfect canvas for your dream home on this heavily wooded 5 acre parcel of land. Tucked away in a private setting, natural setting, the property offers the peace and tranquility of country living while remaining close to all Dublin and Powell have to offer. You have the freedom to bring your own builder and design the home you've always dreamed of. Property has an old cabin with
The 1,980+ sq. ft. Charleston offers a choice of four distinct architectural styles each with a minimum of three bedrooms and 2.5 baths. The bright, open floor plan features a huge great room, a large eat-in kitchen, and a luxurious owner's suite with massive walk-in closet. Charleston floor plan options include a breakfast extension, three-car garage, and so much more.
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 walk out lower level has a prep kitchen, room for additional living area, 2 car garage and workshop area. The yard is
The Barclay, a Homestead Series new home design offers square footage of 2,340+, utilizing ample space in this well designed 2-story home that features 4 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, and an open kitchen/dining area that connects to the great room. The Barclay's upstairs has a conveniently located 2nd floor laundry room and the owner's bedroom has its own private bath with separate walk-in closet. You’ll
The Barclay, a Homestead Series new home design offers square footage of 2,340+, utilizing ample space in this well designed 2-story home that features 4 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, and an open kitchen/dining area that connects to the great room. The Barclay's upstairs has a conveniently located 2nd floor laundry room and the owner's bedroom has its own private bath with separate walk-in closet. You’ll
Charming, thoughtfully updated home ideally situated in the heart of Delaware, offering 3 bedrooms and 2 full bathrooms. The open-concept living area seamlessly connects to a modern kitchen featuring quality finishes, while the main-level bedroom provides added flexibility for a variety of living arrangements. The upper level includes additional bedrooms and versatile bonus space, complemented by
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
Located in the all ages manufactured home community of Delaware MHP, this recently renovated apartment has 2 bedrooms and 1 bathrooms. This apartment comes with a full kitchen, carpet and linoleum flooring, washer/dryer hook-ups, and a driveway. Plus, it has a spacious layout, great location and much more! Delaware MHP offers a friendly atmosphere and streets made for strolls around the
Redwood Delaware Addison Farms is where you'll find the single-story apartment you've been looking for. Live in a two-bedroom, two-bathroom, pet-friendly apartment rental home with an attached garage. Enjoy being surrounded by charming greenery, with all the amenities you could need just a stone's throw away. Plus, you can get to the arts, entertainment, dining and attractions of downtown
Located in the all ages manufactured home community of Delaware MHP, this recently renovated apartment has 2 bedrooms and 1 bathrooms. This apartment comes with a full kitchen, carpet and linoleum flooring, washer/dryer hook-ups, and a driveway. Plus, it has a spacious layout, great location and much more! Delaware MHP offers a friendly atmosphere and streets made for strolls around the
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
5 Bedrooms, Office, 3 full baths and loft!!! This is a gorgeous new construction home located in the desirable Park View community. This home is very spacious --offering plenty of space for living, working, and entertaining.Everything feels new in this move-in-ready home. The kitchen showcases dark brown cabinetry, quartz countertops, and opens to a bright living area with a cozy fireplace.
Greenwood Commons offers comfortable and convenient apartments for rent in Delaware designed for residents who want a balance of quiet suburban living and access to nearby city amenities. This community provides practical layouts and a welcoming environment suited for anyone. Some of these apartments are part of a workforce housing program with the City of Delaware. That means rents are reduced,
Furnished or unfurnished! Sprawling ranch on 3 wooded acres. A private park in your very own back yard. 1,000 sq ft in patio/decking looks out into a huge fenced backyard. Woods surrounding this home are part of the property. Vaulted ceilings as you enter into a giant dining/kitchen. Spacious pantry. Abundant cabinets & one of the largest kitchen islands you've ever seen. Viking gas
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
No Pets. Located in the center of Delaware's Downtown District. Walk to the Courthouse, Downtown, restaurants, shops, Ohio Wesleyan and more. Close to Highways and Hospital. Originally built in 1880, this elegant 3+ bedroom home has been remodeled to preserve its original charm but add modern conveniences such as Granite Counters in the remodeled kitchen, first floor 1/2 bath, two full baths up
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
Move-in ready townhouse-style rental featuring 2 bedrooms and 1 bathroom with approximately 1,000 sq ft of fully renovated living space. This unit offers a spacious, modern kitchen, an open living room layout, and large bedrooms. In-unit washer and dryer included for added convenience, plus two off-street parking spaces. Pet-friendly and perfectly located next to a beautiful 5-acre city park,
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
Rental Home Trends
Number of Homes for Rent
42
Median Rent
$2,500
Median Single Family Home Rent
$2,575
Median 4 Bedroom Single Family Home Rent
$2,740
Median Townhouse Rent
$2,199
Median 3 Bedroom Townhouse Rent
$2,199
Median Condo Rent
$1,250
Median 2 Bedroom Condo Rent
$1,390
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
$79,597
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.
