Set on the eastern shores of Ohio's largest inland lake, St. Marys is a quiet city of less than 10,000. Initially centered around the Miami-Erie canal in the 1800s, the city was known as an industrial zone, with mills lining its waterways and oil derricks erupting from the lake. In the 20th century, St. Marys reimagined itself, focusing on the area's natural beauty. Since then, the city has attracted residents with promises of the nearby Grand Lake, accessible real estate prices and historic sites. "People come here to work, but the real draw is the lake," says Jeff Bertke, a Realtor with Eiting Real Estate. "There's plenty to do around here."
The top industries in St. Marys are manufacturing and healthcare, including companies like Kosei, Setex, Parker Hannifin and Grand Lake Health. Joint Township District Memorial Hospital is the area’s nearest hospital and has about 120 beds and emergency facilities.
Celina is a quiet residential beach community located on Grand Lake.
Grand Lake St. Marys State Park has a boat dock right on the mouth of the lake in St. Marys.
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Sailing on Grand Lake
According to the Ohio Department of Natural Resources, Grand Lake was the world's largest manufactured lake when it was completed in the early 1800s, and it became the site of the world's first offshore oil drilling in the 1890s. Now repurposed for recreation as part of Grand Lake St. Marys State Park, outdoor activities center around the lake, including boating, swimming, fishing and duck hunting.
St. Marys has over a dozen public parks, including a splash pad, miniature golf course and athletics fields at K.C. Geiger Park. Memorial Park has local landmarks, including its covered bridge, clock tower and the Belle of St. Marys, a replica of the boat used to transport residents on the Miami-Erie canal in the 19th century.
The city of Celina is surrounded by rural farmlands.
The Belle of St. Marys is housed at the Veteran's Memorial Park in St. Marys.
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Victorian homes downtown
The median price for real estate in St. Marys is under $200,000, less than half the national median price. The town center has several historic Victorian homes, while midcentury split levels and ranch-style houses line the streets surrounding West Oak Park.
Beautiful Victorian homes line the streets near downtown St. Marys.
Cape Cod homes are a popular option for those looking to make the move to St. Marys.
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Renovations on the Grand Opera House
Built in 1895, the Grand Opera House is going through a rebirth, updating and renovating for a new generation of theatergoers. A cultural symbol of St. Marys, the venue hosts live musical performances, classic films and traveling comedians. The Fountain Hotel and Dr. Issac Elmer Williams House and Office are on the National Register of Historic Places. They are considered excellent examples of Queen Anne architecture in the city's downtown.
The Grand Opera House serves the community of St. Marys with live performances as well as educational experiences.
The historic Fountain Hotel in St. Marys is a landmark in the downtown area.
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Locally owned grocery store at Pantry Pride
Locally owned stores, chain restaurants and mom and pop eateries fill the downtown historic district. " The downtown's in the process of a revitalization," says Bertke. "It's really been picking up in the past five years." Family-run establishments like Pantry Pride and familiar franchises like Kroger cover groceries. Retail shopping is off the highways on the northern edge of town.
The Beer Barrel Pizza and Grill in St. Marys is a popular chain where locals love to join for dinner and drinks.
Pantry Pride is a locally owned grocery store in the city of St. Marys.
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Low traffic on State Route 66
the city center but rarely see any congestion. However, St. Marys is surrounded by agricultural zones that affect travel in the area. "The worst traffic out here is if you're driving in the country and get caught behind a tractor," says Bertke. "Harvest time, be prepared to be courteous to your local farmers." The nearest commercial airport is Dayton International Airport, just over 50 miles south.
One of Auglaize County's best elementary schools
Niche rates St. Marys City School District a B- minus. The district has four schools in the area, including St. Marys West Intermediate School, which Niche recognizes as one of the top five public elementary schools in Auglaize County.
St. Marys West Intermediate School houses students grades 2-5 with a student-teacher ratio of 20 to 1.
St. Marys Memorial High School serves students grades 9-12 with a student teacher ration of 14 to 1.
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Important to know
According to the FBI, violent and property crimes have declined in St. Marys since 2020. Flooding can be a minor issue in northern sections of the city surrounding St. Marys River, and flood insurance might be required for homes most affected.
Written By
Phil Keeling
Photography Contributed By
Jennifer Rehkopf
Video By
Matt Ferguson
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Cassandra Bell,
an experienced agent in this area.
GreatSchools:
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On average, homes in Saint Marys, OH sell after 68 days on the market compared to the national average of 49 days. The median sale price for homes in Saint Marys, OH over the last 12 months is $181,000, up 10% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Remarkable, two-story home boasting four bedrooms, two and a half baths, two car garage with a fenced in backyard.Beautifully updated within the last five years. Roof was recently replaced and warranty transfers to new owner (workmanship and manufacturing for 15 years). Heat pump was replaced in 2024.
This charming 4-bedroom, 2 full bath cape cod home is situated in West Oaks, offering a prime location near amenities. The property boasts numerous updates, including new paint and flooring throughout, nearly all new windows, and updated lighting fixtures. The kitchen features brand new cabinets from Owens, while the main level bath has been renovated with a new shower, vanity, and toilet.
An exceptional home located in the picturesque Pleasantview Subdivision. Built in 2003, it offers 2,429 sq. ft. living space, including 3 bedrooms and 2.5 bathrooms. The open floor plan features cathedral ceilings in both the living room and kitchen. Formal dining room complements the eat-in kitchen area. The split-bedroom floor plan includes a primary bedroom with tray ceilings, spacious walk-in
Welcome to your new home! This ranch style property is located just outside of town on 0.7 acres. The large picture window in the living room allows for plenty of natural light to flood the space, Inside, you'll find beautiful original hardwood floors, carpet and custom tile. You'll enjoy the flexibility of two family rooms, providing ample space and separation as needed.In the past 8 years,
Customize your dream home with the benefits of new construction, without the hassles of an entire construction project! This brand new, zero-step home allows you to choose your own paint colors and flooring if you act quickly. This beautiful two-bedroom, one-bathroom single-family residence is designed for comfort and low maintenance. The exterior features a modern blue/grey color scheme
Seize the opportunity to own 2 acres of prime, versatile land right off Shipman Road, across from St. Mary's High School. Whether you're looking to build your dream home, or invest in future growth, this strategically located property offers endless potential. No utilities.
Welcome to our cozy , Fully furnished , upstairs apartment, on a quiet side street with awesome neighbors! There is a large yard and plenty of parking! Lock in your dates today! Short term or long term! 6 or 12 mon$1300 rent, we pay internet & you pay utilities! Absolutely NO PETS OR SMOKING OF ANY KIND!
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