Why Live in Van Wert
Van Wert, Ohio, is a small rural city working to modernize through a growing downtown scene. The city is heavily car-dependent, with access to U.S. Routes 30 and 127, but lacks public transportation. The nearest commercial airport is Fort Wayne International Airport, 40 miles west. Van Wert is focusing on job growth in agriculture, manufacturing, and insurance sectors. The downtown area features new restaurants and coffee shops, including The Well Nutrition and Winans Chocolate Shop, alongside historic spots like Collins Fine Foods and 133 Bistro. For things to do, residents can visit Smiley Park, Jubilee Park, and Franklin Park, which includes a skate park funded by the Tony Hawk Foundation. YMCA Camp Clay offers summer activities with water attractions and a zipline. Annual events like the Van Wert County Fair and Peony Festival draw crowds for carnival food, truck shows, and local celebrations. The Niswonger Performing Arts Center hosts weekly performances. Housing includes single-family homes and new apartment developments, with two-story brick ranch-style and Craftsman homes on the city's eastern side. Van Wert City Schools serve 2,000 students and have a high rating, offering free dental services through Dental Outreach. Crime rates are lower than the national average, though larceny has increased recently. Environmental concerns include a history of severe weather events and high flood risk near downtown due to Town Creek.
