Plain City offers rural living near metro areas
About 25 miles northwest of Columbus, Plain City is a village of 4300. Surrounded by farmlands, the area attracts residents looking for country living without abandoning the modern comforts of nearby communities like Marysville and Dublin. “We have a little bit of distance from the city,” says Village Administrator Haley Lupton. “I think people enjoy driving to those amenities while seeing farm fields in their backyards.” A combination of highly ranked schools and low cost of living also draws families. “Parents love that it’s a high achieving district with lower taxes,” Lupton says. “It’s got great sports and academic programs, and they get a little more bang for their buck.” Annual events, local businesses and green spaces are also major factors.
The newest homes are further east and west
2010 brought a 50% increase in the population, leading to the development of many new subdivisions, particularly on the far west and east sides. Most of these homes are ranch-style or two-story New Traditional on lots rarely larger than a quarter acre. These houses typically sell between the $340,000s and $760,000s, depending on size and amenities like full basements and community clubhouses. Older homes are typically closer to the center of the village, with early 20th-century Craftsman and Traditional properties generally priced between $220,000 and $340,000.
Jonathan Alder High is known for athletics and the arts
Jonathan Alder Local Schools serves the area with five schools and a B-plus from Niche. Jonathan Alder High School takes pride in its athletics programs, with regular state accolades for its baseball, basketball, softball and volleyball teams. In 2025, the high school’s theatre department won several awards from the Columbus Association for the Performing Arts.
Local eateries have everything from barbecue to traditional Amish
Local storefronts line Main Street, including massage therapists, dental services and barbers. “We have a lot of local businesses here – our uptown district is growing quickly,” says Lupton. “We’re getting more restaurants, and those are doing well, so more businesses are popping up around them.” Groceries are available at Dollar General and Aldi. Der Dutchman serves a menu inspired by Amish and Mennonite culture, including their “Barnraiser Buffet,” which has everything from roast beef to homemade dressing. In addition to in-house smoked meats and locally brewed beer, The Grainery serves as one of the area’s top venues. Every month brings musicians from the worlds of country, folk and Americana to its outdoor stage.
Pastime Park features sports facilities and a campground
Pastime Park is a community hub, inviting locals to enjoy its aquatic center, playground and sports facilities. The park also has a campground with dozens of RV and tent camping spots. “It’s where we hold baseball tournaments, our fall festival and a Christmas light show,” says Lupton. “We use it all throughout the year.” The Heritage Trail is a paved route for hikers and bicyclists that begins in Plain City and continues to Old Hilliard, some 6 miles away.
The Miami Steam Threshers Show brings vintage tractors to the area
The annual Miami Valley Steam Threshers Show has introduced Ohioans to vintage tractors and farming equipment since 1949. The weekend event is held every summer and includes a parade, tractor pulls and a variety of exhibitions.
Columbus is about a half hour drive away
U.S. Route 42 and State Route 161 cut through the village, connecting to nearby interstates. “We’re pretty close to Interstates 70 and 270,” says Lupton. “So that’s pretty convenient.” Commuters can drive to Columbus in about half an hour via I-70. The nearest hospital is OhioHealth Dublin Methodist Hospital, which has a trauma center and maternity, cancer and behavioral care facilities.
