Why families and commuters like Kingston’s quiet, rural pace
Set among farmland and long stretches of open green space, Kingston is a town of about 2,400 people on the edge of the Columbus metro area. It has a strong rural vibe, with quiet roads and a slower pace of life that a lot of residents appreciate. Families are also drawn to the area’s well-regarded public schools, which add to its appeal. And with easy access to nearby highways, Kingston works well for commuters who like the idea of heading back to a more country setting after a long workday.
Spacious homes on large lots offer privacy and rural appeal
Kingston doesn’t have a lot of traditional subdivisions, and most homes are spaced out with a noticeable amount of room between them. That extra space gives many properties a level of privacy that’s harder to find in the suburbs or the city, which Re/Max Affiliates owner and broker Jeff Gongwer says is a big draw. “It’s for people who want to be out in the country, but not too far from Columbus,” he says. Homes here are mostly midcentury and contemporary Craftsman, split-level and ranch-style houses, with prices generally falling between the mid-$300,000s and the high $600,000s. New Traditional homes built in the 21st century tend to sit in more remote pockets of town, selling anywhere from the low $700,000s up to $1.1 million, often with perks like waterfront views and convenient access to nearby country clubs.
Utilities such as water, electric and internet are available, but service levels can vary depending on the location, since many homes are on larger lots and use private wells and septic systems. Gongwer says that Columbus’ steady expansion will probably affect Kingston with new developments and county sewer systems, but not any time too soon. “You’re going to see a lot of growth around here eventually,” he says. “But for the next 20 years it’ll stay rural.”
Consistently strong public schools with award-winning students
Big Walnut Local School District consistently earns four out of five stars on the Ohio School Report Card, exceeding state standards. In 2026, the district also boasted extracurricular excellence when one of their students was named Ohio Ms. Basketball: the state’s top honor for girls high school basketball.
Country roads and highway access make commuting manageable
The roads in Kingston focus on county and state routes rather than busy city streets, with quick access to Interstate 71 for commuters. Sunbury is about 5 miles away, while Delaware is about 10. The job hubs in downtown Columbus and New Albany are within about half an hour’s drive, depending on traffic.
Nearby Sunbury handles everyday shopping and dining needs
The nearby community of Sunbury provides most of the local shopping, with a Kroger, chain restaurants and an assortment of retailers at places like Big Walnut Plaza. Outlet shopping is just off the crossroads of U.S. Route 36 and I-71, and one of the city’s largest malls is in Polaris North, about 15 miles away.
Outdoor recreation ranges from lakes and trails to golf
In the area surrounding Kingston, locals can find plenty of opportunities to get outside and have fun:
- Alum Creek State Park is popular with boaters and anglers, who come down for fishing and fun on Alum Creek Lake.
- Big Walnut Golf Course is a public course known for its laid-back attitude and nine holes within a rural setting.
- NorthStar Golf Club provides a private, high-end experience, with 18 holes, full-size tennis courts, a zero-entry pool and fine dining.
- Hogback Ridge Park offers hiking trails through over 40 acres of quiet woodlands and scenic overlooks.
