Former steel town on the banks of the Little Miami River
Middletown, Ohio, has plenty of ghost stories. And the majority date back to this city's earliest days. A factory town along the Little Miami River, Middletown thrived on its paper, tobacco — and by1900, steel — industries. Today's residents, many of which are descendants of the city's founders, continue to pass down local lore. "We've had some paranormal investigators come in over the years," says Erin Allen, assistant manager at the Swire Inn, a downtown restaurant built shortly after the Civil War. Tunnels in the basement, she says, once led to the Sorg Mansion, and she's even had a supernatural experience or two in the attic. Still, Middletown is more than its ghosts and secret passageways; it's also a midway point between commercial hubs like Dayton and Cincinnati. "We're right off a major highway, Interstate 75, which gives that convenience of being able to get to either of those bigger cities pretty quickly," says Re/MAx Victory + Affiliates Realtor Donna Deaton, who has nearly 20 years of experience selling in the area. Today, Middletown's population hovers around 51,000, a substantial increase since a period of instability in the 1980s and another after the 2008 financial crisis. Revitalization efforts by nonprofits like Downtown Middletown, Inc. have resulted in business development in the city's historic downtown area and recent years have also seen the addition of subdivisions on the city's outskirts. Although times are changing in Middletown, some stories are likely to stick around for another century or two.
Downtown Middletown is full of mom and pop retails and restaurants.
Middletown is located in Butler and Warren County.
Middletown is home to the historic Sorg Opera House.
Middletown's historic downtown district has experienced recent revitalization.
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Competitive housing prices and architecture that spans decades
Housing in Middletown spans several decades, from the early 20th-century cottages in neighborhoods like Church and Avalon to mid-century ranch-style houses in the Euclid Heights-Runnymede neighborhood. Prospective buyers will also find New Traditional designs in outlying cul-de-sac subdivisions like Sawyers Mill, where two-car garages are the standard and newly planted trees promise shade for future generations. "People also move [to Middletown] because it's affordable," explains Deaton. Single-family homes, which sit on gridded streets closer to downtown, typically fall between $150,000 and $350,000, while investment properties can start at $70,000. The median sale price in Middletown is $200,000, significantly less than half the national average of $420,000.
Middletown has homes that date back to the 1800's such as the Sorg Mansion.
Many homes in Middletown are single story Cape Cod's and Bungalows.
Colonial homes are scattered throughout Middletown.
Middletown has build many New Traditional homes to keep up with the housing market.
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St. Patrick's Day, twinkle lights in the park and hot air balloons
Middletown has an active events calendar, from winter markets to summer movie nights in the park. "Next year is our second annual St. Patrick's Parade," says Jeri Lewis, the city's community project coordinator. "We had our first one last year, and it was huge," families typically attend decked out in all green. Lewis also highlights Middletown's Sunday morning farmers market, which starts in June and finishes up for the season in October. Businesses on Main and Central keep their doors open late for First Fridays. "This is also our fourth year of the Holiday Whopla," says Lewis, adding that festivities include a downtown ice rink, a Santa Parade and an event called Light up Middletown. "It's basically a Christmas Light show in Smith Park. It's all donation-based, and you drive through a lighted tunnel with your radio station switched to a particular station to listen to Christmas music." Summer in the city also means The Ohio Challenge, a weekend-long hot air balloon showcase in Smith Park that also includes a vintage car show and fireworks. For other events, there's live theater at the historic Sorg Opera House, which is just down the street from the Sorg Manion's iconic turrets.
Downtown mom-and-pops and big-box shopping in outlying neighborhoods
Some storefronts in Middletown's downtown business district date back to the mid-19th century, and the iconic seven-story Goetz Tower is set to undergo renovations thanks to recent tax credits. Eateries include a mix of sit-down American restaurants, cozy Irish Pubs like the Swire Inn, new-age breweries and quaint cafes; and there's even a small-town candy shop with old-fashioned black-and-white tiled floors too. Central Pastry Shop, which first opened in the 1940s, is a favorite of former Middletown resident and Vice President-Elect JD Vance, who stopped by on the campaign trail in 2024. "When I moved here, my husband told me the history of Middletown and how Central Pastry makes the best cakes, even better than the ones in New York," says co-owner Vera Slamka. "I said, 'That's impossible. How can a bakery make it better than in New York?' But he was right." Residents will also find big-box stores and chain restaurants in strip malls like Eastgate Plaza Shopping Center and Towne Mall, plus more options all along North Verity Parkway.
Take a walk throughout Downtown Middletown and discover a mom and pop retail or restaurant.
Downtown Middletown is where many locals go for entertainment options.
Mz Jades restaurant serves delicious fresh dinner in Middletown.
Milton donuts has unique homemade sweets to shop in Middletown.
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Fishing, walking trails and four golf courses
There are over 30 public parks throughout Middletown, where residents will find hiking trails, athletic facilities and community centers. At nearly 100 acres, Smith Park is the city's largest, and licensed fishermen can cast their lines out for channel catfish in the central pond. From Smith Park, walkers and bikers can also access the Great Miami River Trail, a multi-use paved path along the western and northern edges of the community. It spans a total of 93 miles and connects Middletown to surrounding communities like Hamilton and Fairfield. The U.S. Forest Service and National Association of State Foresters partnered with the Arbor Day Foundation to recognize Middletown as a Tree City USA in 2007, and the city is also home to two nature preserves: Bull's Run and Armbruster. Forest Hills Country Club, Brown's Run Country Club and Wildwood are private golf courses within the city, and Green Crest is open to the public.
Play a round at Forest Hills Country Club in Middletown.
Take the kids to Sunset Park in Middletown and enjoy the playground.
Smith Park in Middletown has public amenities perfect for enjoying an afternoon.
Goldman Park in Middletown is beloved by the community.
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The Middletown City School District and library services
The Middletown City School District serves approximately 6,100 students in prekindergarten through 12th grade, and it earns an overall C-minus grade from Niche. There are 10 schools within the district, and the Middletown Mighty Middies kick off at Barnitz Stadium during football and soccer seasons. Institutions of higher education within the city include Miami University Middletown, a satellite campus for Miami University and also one of the city's largest employers. MidPointe Library Middletown offers everything from weekly yoga classes to in-library case managers who are also trained in mental healthcare.
MidPointe Library in Middletown offers educational services to the community.
Middletown Middle School educates grades 6-8 in Middletown.
Miller Ridge Elementary School in Middletown is a great education option for your kids.
The Middletown High School football team plays at Barnitz Stadium.
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Decreasing crime rates since 2020
According to recent FBI data, Middletown's violent crime and property crime rates have both decreased since 2020. The chances of falling victim to a violent crime in Middletown are 1 in 413, which is less than both the Ohio and national average. Residents can view interactive crime maps on Middletown's official website, a resource showing where crimes were committed in the city. There's also a forum where citizens can submit complaints of police misconduct.
A midway point between Dayton and Cincinnati
Middletown's name is derived from its position as a midway point between Dayton and Cincinnati, both of which are accessible via Interstate 75. Cincinnati is approximately 40 miles south, a trip that typically takes around 50 minutes. There's also the CincyLink Express Bus, part of the larger Butler County Regional Transit Authority System, which departs several times a day from the Middletown Meijer. Dayton is 25 miles—or just over 30 minutes—north, and residents can use either city's international airport, although Cincinnati's provides far more direct flight options. Middletown Transit Services, or MTS, offers four routes within Middletown: the Red Line, Blue Line, Green Line and Gold Line. The Red Line travels from downtown to Atrium Medical Center, the nearest hospital and one of the city's leading employers.
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On average, homes in Middletown, OH sell after 37 days on the market compared to the national average of 53 days. The median sale price for homes in Middletown, OH over the last 12 months is $233,000, up 9% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Welcome to 1100 Hughes St, where historic 1899 architecture meets a complete 2025 transformation. Boasting nearly 1,900 sq. ft. of pristine living space, this 3-bedroom, 2-full bath residence has been reimagined from top to bottom. Step inside to discover an open and airy layout highlighted by soaring 9ft+ ceilings and gorgeous new flooring that flows throughout the main level. The heart of the
New Construction by Fischer Homes in the beautiful Renaissance community with the Amelia plan, featuring a stunning kitchen with pantry, lots of cabinet space and quartz countertops. Spacious family room expands to light-filled morning room. Private study with double doors. Primary Suite with private bath and walk-in closet. Additional bedroom and hall bath. Two car garage.
Welcome to your dream 3 bedroom brick ranch! This home is ideal for first-time buyers or those looking to downsize. Carport parking, fenced-in yard and space to enjoy the outdoors. Low-maintenance brick exterior and a practical layout make this home a great fit for everyday living.
You won't want to miss out on this spacious Middletown home! A mix of updates with original beauty, this home has clearly been loved by its owners and is ready to loved by new ones! Walk in the front door to a classic wooden staircase with stain glass windows and original woodwork! Lots of large windows give the entire home tons of natural light! Tall ceilings, a spacious living room (the piano
Beautifully maintained ranch featuring 4 bedrooms and 2 full baths. Enjoy a spacious living room with a cozy wood-burning fireplace, a dining room with built-ins, and a large kitchen offering plenty of cabinet space. The full finished basement provides a generous family room and recreation area, perfect for entertaining. Relax on the enclosed patio or covered front porch. Property includes a
Great rental or flip opportunity for an investor looking for their next project, or great home for a DIY homeowner at a great price with plenty of room to earn lots of sweat equity! Prime location within Madison School District! Spacious rooms for a 900 sq ft house! Deck off the back and large storage shed! Bonus room upstairs perfect for storage or opportunity for a makeshift third bedroom!
Welcome to 1100 Hughes St, where historic 1899 architecture meets a complete 2025 transformation. Boasting nearly 1,900 sq. ft. of pristine living space, this 3-bedroom, 2-full bath residence has been reimagined from top to bottom. Step inside to discover an open and airy layout highlighted by soaring 9ft+ ceilings and gorgeous new flooring that flows throughout the main level. The heart of the
Is it the sensible layout that speaks volumes to how families live today? Or could it be the variety of options to make it even more your own? The Buchanan offers a light-filled study with optional French doors as well as an elegant dining room with a dramatic tray ceiling option which also connects to the open kitchen through an optional butler's pantry. The expansive great room can have an
Open space and clean, modern lines characterize the Quentin floor plan, giving you that refreshed, rejuvenated feeling that home is supposed to. The home office just off the main foyer is perfect for working from home. Step up the elegance in the dining room with the tray ceiling option, if you like. The spacious family room offers a comfy optional corner fireplace. The breakfast room and kitchen
Drees is excited to present the Shelburn, a new home design offering convenient one-level living. From the welcoming foyer and gallery with optional tray ceilings, you'll view an impressive central living space showcasing a large family room with optional fireplace, well-equipped kitchen and open, airy dining area. You can choose to add a relaxing covered rear porch. The secluded primary suite
The Mitchell by Fischer Homes offers an impressive and versatile design, highlighted by a stunning two-story family room with soaring ceilings and a rear window wall that fills the space with natural light. The open-concept kitchen features an expansive island with seating, perfect for entertaining or casual gatherings. Enjoy the flexibility of an included casual living space, or customize with
The Grayson by Fischer Homes offers a distinctive design that blends style and functionality. The home features a unique light-filled corner staircase at the front entry, paired with 9-foot ceilings on the first floor for an open and airy feel. The family room and kitchen layout create a seamless flow, with options for a hearth room expansion or a prep kitchen or pocket office in place of the
The Amelia by Fischer Homes offers a spacious and versatile design, featuring an extra-large family room that opens to the kitchen for seamless living. Customize your home with options for a basement or loft, a private study, or a third bedroom. Enhance your living space with an optional sunroom, expanded patio, or deck. The owners suite includes the option for direct access to the laundry room
The Saxon presents a compact plan with lots of style. Step inside and discover a formal dining room or home office off the inviting foyer. You'll enjoy relaxing in the open family room, breakfast room and kitchen with optional serving island. Expand your living space on the first floor with an optional sunroom which lends an even more open feel to this home. Upstairs, you'll find a private
Step into modern luxury at Echo Ridge, where our brand-new one, two, and three-bedroom apartments in Middletown, Ohio include white shaker-style cabinetry, quartz countertops, stainless-steel appliances, and a full-sized in-unit washer & dryer. Our bright, open concept layouts and chef-inspired kitchens reverberate with the cheerful ambiance of shared moments. With decorative transom windows,
Great opportunity to lease this beautifully updated home located on a quiet cul-de-sac. Enjoy a spacious, open floor plan with new flooring in the main living areas and updated hardware throughout. The flexible layout offers excellent privacy, with a generous primary suite on one side of the home featuring an attached bath with oversized walk-in shower and a large walk-in closet. Two additional
Welcome home to Williamsburg Place Apartments, conveniently located near I-75, Miami University and the Cincinnati Premium Outlets. Our location also provides an easy commute to Dayton and Cincinnati. The spacious apartment homes feature large walk-in closets, fully equipped kitchens, central air, ceiling fans, carpet, ceramic tiles and brick accent walls in select apartments. All of the
Beautifully updated 3-bedroom, 1.5-bath home located in a remodeled duplex on a quiet street in Middletown! Features include a bright white remodeled kitchen, low-maintenance plank flooring throughout, and spacious living and dining rooms. The first-floor half bath and second-floor full bath have both been updated. All 3 bedrooms are located on the second level for privacy. Enjoy a covered front
Experience luxury living in the prestigious Lebanon School District. Conveniently located right off I-75 and only 20 minutes North of Cincinnati, and 25 minutes South of Dayton, Nicholas Place Apartments will offer the residents of Lebanon and other surrounding areas a great place to call home. Your new home is desirably located on Towne Boulevard near an abundance of shops, dining, the new
Great home in a sought after neighborhood and school system. This home is equipped with 3 bedrooms, two full and 1 half baths. Kitchen walks out to a large deck and a private fenced backyard. Spacious unfinished basement can be setup for entertainment. Refrigerator, oven range, microwave, dishwasher, washer & dryer provided
Village East Apartments in Franklin, OH offers a variety of apartment and community amenities, including a swimming pool, a playground, a community clubhouse, a 24-hour fitness center, a business center, a private patio/balcony, and walk-in closets.
Step into style and comfort at 3048 Canvasback Court! This standout lease opportunity brings together modern updates, generous space, and vibrant living areas designed for today's lifestyle. The sunroom radiates natural light and creates an inspiring place to unwind, while the dedicated office offers a flexible spot for work, creativity, or organization. The refreshed kitchen opens into bright,
Trinity Place Apartments are located in the heart of downtown Middletown, putting us at the epicenter of shopping and community attractions, including Smith Park which holds the Annual Ohio Hot Air Balloon Challenge and Light Up Middletown! In addition to the local flavor you’ll love our large one and two bedroom flats and town homes that were all designed for space and comfort. Call us today to
Brand-new, move-in ready ranch. 0 steps, cathedral ceilings, island kitchen, and zero-entry walk-in shower. Low-maintenance-HOA grass cutting and snow removal. Quiet cul-de-sac near university, hospital, shopping, and parks. Luxury awaits!
Townhome-Style Apartments in Middletown, OhioStep up to urban bliss at Maple Oaks in the heart of Middletown, Ohio. Our trend-forward apartment community is designed to suit your on-the-go lifestyle. Choose from modern 2 and 3 bedroom floor plans boasting an array of charming features. And with our range of community amenities, you can connect or unplug, depending on your mood.
Brand-new, move-in ready ranch. 0 steps, cathedral ceilings, island kitchen, and zero-entry walk-in shower. Low-maintenance-HOA grass cutting and snow removal. Quiet cul-de-sac near university, hospital, shopping, and parks. Luxury awaits!
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