The city's rails-to-trails trajectory sparked major growth
Nicknamed the "City of Hospitality" for its Greek translation, Xenia lives up to its name by openly welcoming new opportunities and residents. The city's economy once thrived due to the railroad industry, and its prosperity continues after the railroads have transformed into a regional biking trail network. The trails now attract thousands to the city each year, and many visitors stay permanently because of Xenia’s combined focus on outdoor recreation and commercial growth. The city is actively restructuring key districts to support growing industries, start-up businesses and pedestrian-friendly infrastructure.
Xenia also puts its nearly 26,000 residents at the center of a transportation triangle between Dayton, Columbus and Cincinnati. Within 20 miles, people can reach major employers like Wright-Patterson Air Force Base and the Kettering Health Network.
Xenia Celebrates its robust history of Railroads, now sprawling bike paths.
The Creekside Trail in Xenia allows residents to easily navigate the city.
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Xenia Station is a worldwide trail center
Mixed-use bike trails are the focal point of the city. In 2014, the city became an official Buckeye and North Country Trail Town because of its four major long-distance bike trails. The Little Miami Scenic Trail, the Ohio-Erie Trail, the Creekside Trail and the Jamestown Connector Trail converge at Xenia Station, the city's recreational crown jewel. "We have people from all over the world who specifically come to Xenia Station to ride their bicycles on our trails," says Kathleen Lewis, secretary and event coordinator at The Friends of Xenia Station nonprofit organization. The station's historic bright red caboose is an iconic city symbol, acting as a beacon for incoming travelers.
Among Xenia's parks, Shawnee Park is a particular standout. It offers diverse sports facilities, and its fishing lake hosts the Annual Youth Fishing Derby. The city is also home to the county's expo center and fairgrounds, where the Greene County Fair takes place every July.
This horse is off to the races at the Green County Expo Center in Xenia.
Xenia Station is a replica of Xenia's 1880s brick railroad station.
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Infill construction and housing rehabilitation are the new focus
Xenia's housing is diverse, from historic homes concentrated around downtown to growing contemporary neighborhoods. Older homes display architectural styles from the early to mid-20th century, featuring large front porches and flourishing gardens. Newer developments include single-family homes on large lots along the city's edge. The city has recently shifted its focus toward infill housing and rehabilitating established neighborhoods. Townhome, duplex and small-scale apartment developments are in the works around Xenia Downtown Historic District. Prices are just as diverse as housing styles, but the city's median home price falls around $235,000. This is lower than the national median of roughly $406,000.
Xenia offers an array of different styles of architecture such as these new traditionals.
Xenia is flush with historical homes with grand entrances.
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Bright future for The Market District
The city heavily promoted commercial growth after tornadoes caused significant destruction downtown in 1974. Today’s retail scene includes small businesses downtown and larger shopping centers along West Main Street. However, all of Xenia's commercial areas are undergoing redevelopment. Downtown is being reimagined into The Market District, a walkable center full of small businesses, active event spaces and collaborative workplaces. The mixed-use space is meant to blend seamlessly with the remaining historic architecture that surrounds it. A mile away, Xenia Station is developing into the Hub District, a colorful, nature-focused space with public art and recreation.
Stop by for a fresh pint at Devil Wind Brewing in Xenia.
Roosters in Xenia is a local hotspot for those craving delicious BBQ.
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Xenia is at the center of a transportation triangle
While biking and walking trails are some of the city's greatest strengths, commuting by car is very efficient, with Highways 35, 42 and 68 passing through the city. In about 10 miles, Highway 35 leads to Interstate 675, which opens connections with Interstates 70 and 75 and larger cities. Buses run through the Greene County CATS Public Transit system, and the closest airport is The Dayton International Airport, located about 28 miles away.
Vocational skill-building starts in high school
Xenia Community City School District operates eight schools and a preschool. Niche gives it an overall grade of C and ranks it the third-most diverse school district out of seven in Greene County. The city is also home to The Greene County Career Center. The vocational school offers two adult programs and over 30 high school programs to help students jump-start their careers.
The Green County Career Center in Xenia offers an expansive campus for its students.
Xenia High School offers a student to teacher ratio of 21 to 1.
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The Red, White and Blue Block Party keeps the patriotic spirit going
Xenia has a few major events throughout the year, each attracting large crowds to the city's downtown area. Spring Fling closes off Main and Detroit streets for a half-day carnival. Kids and adults alike enjoy a petting zoo, live music and local food trucks. The day after Independence Day, the city keeps the patriotic spirit going with a Red, White and Blue Block Party. Oktoberfest coincides with Harvest on Main, a fall-themed event featuring a farmers market, free pumpkin painting and a one-of-a-kind antique tractor cruise-in.
Xenia's crime rates and climate
The Federal Bureau of Investigations reports that Xenia's violent crime rates are higher than the national rate, but property crime rates are about even. The Xenia Police Department's crime prevention unit identifies crime trends and plans community outreach opportunities to address them.
Xenia sees four distinct seasons, but long summers usually lead to short winters. Floodplain regulations and improved stormwater systems prevent substantial flooding from Shawnee Creek and the Little Miami River, although heavy rain events can occasionally lead to road closures.
Disclaimer: Certain information contained herein is derived from information provided by parties other than Homes.com. Our sources include: Accuweather, Public Records and Neustar. All information provided is deemed reliable, but is not guaranteed to be accurate and should be independently verified.
