West Jefferson is a family oriented community outside Columbus
Stretching through the farmlands of Madison County, West Jefferson is a village of 4,100. Founded in the early 19th century, locals say the area retains a quiet community spirit, even as Columbus steadily grows about 15 miles away. “It’s a great place to live,” says Kirstin Montoya, a Realtor with the Buckeye Realty Group who’s lived in the village for 8 years. “It’s a small town, but you’ve got easy access to where the excitement is – that’s a big draw for people.” She says local events and new public parks are particularly interesting for homeowners with children or grandchildren. “They’re very family-oriented,” says Montoya. “The community is safe and fun and very welcoming.” West Jefferson’s CAP Index Crime Score is 2 out of 10, compared to the national average of 4 out of 10.
Walkable neighborhoods feature midcentury homes
Homes are mostly clustered around the middle of the neighborhood, expanding out from the village center. Midcentury Cape Cods, split-levels and ranch-style homes line the streets in snug lots that are typically less than a quarter-acre in size. Narrow sidewalks create walkability, particularly downtown, where residential zones are connected to public parks and shopping. Homes are generally priced to sell between $160,000 and $450,000, depending on size, condition and amenities like pools and acreage. The median price for a single-family home is in the $260,000s, comparable to the Madison County median.
Students attend B-rated schools with sports recognition
Students in West Jefferson will begin at Norwood Elementary, which has a B from Niche. From there, they’ll attend West Jefferson Middle School, which has a B-minus. Finally, they’ll enroll at B-rated West Jefferson High School. Two high school baseball and softball athletes were nominated for the Central Ohio High School Sports Athlete of the Year Award for the 2024 – 2025 season.
Parks offer playgrounds, pickleball and seasonal events
Westwood Memorial Park’s woodland-themed playground features rubber surfaces for youth safety and an obstacle course for older kids. Adults can enjoy a game of pickleball or meet friends and family in the picnic pavilion. Opened in 2022, Garrette Park’s playground features a gravity rail, a toddler area and handicap-accessible see-saws and merry-go-round. The Community Center is another go-to spot for families, hosting regular events like the Fall Fest and Winter Formal. “They’ve always got something going on,” says Montoya. “In the summer, they’ll almost have daily events for kids.” The National Road Golf Course offers a public 18 holes, golfing simulators, a driving range and a pro shop.
Pizza places dominate the local dining scene
Locally owned stores and services are available along National Pike, along with a Dollar General for groceries. The same strip is home to several restaurants, with particular attention paid to one Columbus-area favorite. “We have a lot of pizza places,” says Montoya. “A lot. I mean it: there are so many, considering what a small town we have.” The selection runs from laid-back brick oven style at Mike’s Pizza to the full-service bar and tavern atmosphere at Pat’s Pizza and Pub. West Jefferson is home to the original Flyers Pizza, which has grown into a regional chain with 10 locations. Overall, the village features about half a dozen pizza places, the best of which comes down to personal taste.
The Ox Roast draws crowds with games, music and tons of meat
First held in 1951, the West Jefferson Ox Roast is an annual event that involves a parade, live music and about two-and-a-half tons of meat. Every Labor Day weekend, the West Jefferson Community Association buries 5,000 pounds of seasoned round roast in a coal-filled pit, slowly cooking it until Monday morning, when it’s sliced, made into sandwiches and served. While lunch cooks underground, the public can compete in a cornhole tournament, visit craft vendors or attend the coronation of the year’s Miss Ox Roast.
State Route 40 connects the village to Columbus
State Route 40 passes through the village, leading to Columbus, about 15 miles east. The Madison Medical Center offers an emergency room, primary care and sports medicine facilities.
