About 15 miles from Columbus, Lake Darby is an unincorporated community within Galloway. Bordered by Big Darby Creek to the west and the farmlands of Central Ohio to the east, the area is valued by many for its rustic surroundings. “It’s rural with access to the city,” says Lynn Cook, a real estate agent with NextHome Experience who’s served the area since 1989. “It’s not like the hustle and bustle you’ll see in bigger cities.” A younger element has been drawn to the area in recent years, says Cook. “The Hilliard school district and the area’s affordability bring a lot of families,” she says. “Plus, you’re still connected to the shopping in Hilliard and New Rome. Everything’s close by.”
Jefferson Township Community Park offers Lake Darby residents a walking path and shelter houses.
Lake Darby is a suburb of Columbus and has a population of approximately 4,000.
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Traditional and midcentury styles dominate local housing
Homes in the northern Westpoint neighborhood were typically built between the 1970s and 1990s, with various midcentury and traditional styles available. The area has generally suburban features like driveways, attached garages, fenced-in backyards and cul-de-sacs. “It’s a huge, popular subdivision,” says Cook. “That’s where most people coming to the area end up.” Homes are typically priced between $250,000 and $450,000, depending on size and amenities. Styles are similar in the southern Lake Darby Estates, though prices are lower, generally falling between $150,000 and $310,000. This price discrepancy is usually attributed to the difference in school districts.
Ranch homes with large garages provide Lake Darby residents a space they can relax.
Split level homes are a great option for families looking to move to Lake Darby.
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Subdivisions are split between two public school districts
“The Hilliard school district is in a lot of demand,” says Cook. Covering the northern half of Lake Darby, Hilliard City Schools has an A-minus from Niche. In addition to its opportunities for career mentorship and active extracurriculars in the arts, Hilliard Bradley High School can boast a prolific athletic department, with its football team making the playoffs in 2024. The southern half of the community is served by the South-Western City School District, which has a B-minus from Niche. Westland High School’s football team also made the playoffs in 2024. Ohio offers open enrollment for students interested in pursuing an education outside of their assigned district.
Norwood Elementary School is in Lake Darby and teaches students in K-5.
Ranked #1 in Ohio for Value-Added growth, Hilliard Memorial Middle School sets the bar for student success.
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Dining includes biker bars and sports pubs
While the area has a few locally owned stores, most residents shop in nearby communities like Hilliard, which has big-box stores like Walmart and grocery stores like Aldi. Hoffman’s Farm Market has been selling locally grown produce and meats for five generations, with a history that dates back to the early 1800s. Ike’s Pub is a classic local watering hole with Ohio State Games on the TV and outdoor seating. The Ten Mile Inn is a biker bar serving no-frills chow and hosting bike nights, karaoke and live music.
Ike's Pub is the go to place in Lake Darby to grab a drink with friends.
Ten Mile Inn is located outside of Lake Darby and offers bikers a place to gather.
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Outdoor lovers enjoy trails, canoeing and winter sports
The Darby Creek Trail is nearly 5 miles long and passes various scenic sites, including the Darby House and the Darby Dan Farm. With about 7,400 acres of restored prairies, wetlands and forests, the Battelle Darby Creek Metro Park is a hub for nature lovers. In addition to canoeing, sledding and cross-country skiing spaces, the park has over a dozen trails, hunting grounds and picnic areas.
Prairie Oaks Metro Park
Beautiful walking paths can be found throughout Lake Darby.
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Major highways connect to nearby cities
With Interstate 70 to the north and U.S. Route 40 to the south, commuting anywhere in the surrounding area is straightforward. Columbus is about 15 miles east, and the OhioHealth Doctors Hospital is about 6 miles away.
Written By
Phil Keeling
Photography Contributed By
Kayleigh Ulrich
Video By
Houston Knight
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Theresa Barron,
an experienced agent in this area.
GreatSchools:
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This property will be sold at an in-person auction on Saturday, May 9, 2026 at 10:00 AM. All prospective buyers must register prior to bidding. The property is being sold as-is. Welcome to 8992 Canoe Drive, Galloway, Ohio--a 3-bedroom, 1.5-bath home located in the desirable Hilliard City School District. This home features an updated kitchen with modern finishes, renovated bathrooms, and newer
This property will be sold at an in-person auction on Saturday, May 9, 2026 at 10:00 AM. All prospective buyers must register prior to bidding. The property is being sold as-is. Welcome to 8992 Canoe Drive, Galloway, Ohio--a 3-bedroom, 1.5-bath home located in the desirable Hilliard City School District. This home features an updated kitchen with modern finishes, renovated bathrooms, and newer
Completely renovated home in the highly desirable Hilliard School District. Renovation includes all-new windows, new kitchen including appliances, new bathrooms, and new flooring throughout. Roof, siding, and gutters were all replaced last year, offering major exterior updates and added peace of mind. Also includes an enclosed front porch with additional square footage, a 2-car garage, large
Welcome Home to 8541 Leader Dr!Looking for that ''newly remodeled'' feel without the wait? This stunning 3-bedroom, 2.5-bath home in the heart of Galloway with almost 2000sf of finished living space has been beautifully refreshed and is ready for you to move right in. What You'll Love Inside:Fresh & Modern: Step into a bright, airy space featuring brand-new entry flooring throughout and a
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Welcome to this beautifully completely remodeled home in desirable Lake Darby Estates -- a stunning blend of modern upgrades and classic comfort! This 3-bed, 1-bath residence has been thoughtfully updated from top to bottom, making it a truly move-in ready opportunity. Step inside to discover brand new luxury-grade flooring, fresh trim, doors, and lighting that create a bright, clean, and stylish
Welcome home to this beautiful four-bedroom residence in the highly desirable Westpoint subdivision, located within the sought-after Hilliard School District! This inviting home features a spacious great room that flows seamlessly into the eat-in kitchen--perfect for everyday living and entertaining. The main level also offers a formal dining room that could easily serve as an additional living
Welcome to this charming, 3-bedroom ranch home nestled in the desirable Lake Darby neighborhood! You'll love the natural lighting the skylight provides in the living room and the fresh paint throughout the home. The functional layout provides a welcoming living space, eat in kitchen, and well-sized bedrooms, ideal for everyday living.Enjoy the newer carpet and peace of mind with a newer water
Please note, our homes are available on a first-come, first-serve basis and are not reserved until the holding fee agreement is signed and the holding fee is paid by the primary applicant.Coming soon! This home is currently being enjoyed by another resident but will be available soon. Please respect their privacy and do not disturb. You can complete the application process and reserve
Property Id: 1175129Welcome to your dream home at 8677 Canyon Cove Road! This charming single-family property in Galloway, OH offers 3-4 spacious bedrooms and 1.5 modern bathrooms, perfect for comfortable living. Built in 1975, this well-maintained home features amenities like a dishwasher, dryer, freezer, oven, garbage disposal, and refrigerator. With its central air & heat, you'll stay
Welcome to your dream home at 8677 Canyon Cove Road! This charming single-family property in Galloway, OH offers 3-4 spacious bedrooms and 1.5 modern bathrooms, perfect for comfortable living. Built in 1975, this well-maintained home features amenities like a dishwasher, dryer, freezer, oven, garbage disposal, and refrigerator. With its central air & heat, you'll stay comfortable year-round.
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