5 Reasons to Move to Licking County, OH, Right Now

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Located in the heart of Ohio just east of Columbus, Licking County has a lot to offer its residents, including affordability, quality of life and incredible education and career opportunities. For those seeking a place to raise a family and put down roots, here are five reasons to consider making a move to Licking County:

1. Score an Excellent Education 

Licking County boasts access to top-notch educational institutions, making it an ideal place for those seeking to broaden their minds, especially when it comes to higher education. The city is proud to host the largest Ohio State satellite campus in Newark, offering a wide array of academic programs. 

Central Ohio Technical College further enhances the educational landscape, providing a pathway to valuable skills and careers. Then, there’s Denison University, a picturesque liberal arts campus in Granville, offering some 60 academic programs to 2,200 students. Whether you’re a lifelong learner or working toward a specific educational goal, Licking County is sure to provide an environment that primes you for success. 

2. Enjoy a Great Quality of Life 

This region seamlessly blends small-town charm with big-city amenities, offering a quality of life that is hard to match. Imagine strolling through weekly farmers markets, savoring delicious food at locally owned restaurants and indulging in retail therapy at unique shops.

The cultural scene is equally vibrant, with the Weathervane Playhouse putting on captivating theater shows and the Midland Theatre hosting engaging concerts, films and orchestra performances. In Licking County, you can relish metropolitan experiences without the overcrowded hassle of an urban area – or the hefty price tag that comes with it. 

3. Land Great Career Opportunities 

When you move to Licking County, you’ll not only find a great place to call home, you’ll discover a place to build professional growth and success. With major employers like Licking Memorial Health Systems, Park National Bank, The Boeing Company and others, the career landscape here is buzzing with opportunities in multiple areas.

Whether you’re delving into the tech sector, manufacturing, health care or exploring other industries, Licking County offers ample opportunity for tangible career advancement – a definite plus when considering where to live. 

4. Find Versatile Housing Options 

People are spoiled for choice when it comes to where to live in Licking County. The region caters to diverse housing preferences, whether you fancy waterfront tranquility, rural serenity or the fast pace of urban living. Newark Station, a former warehouse that’s been renovated and sectioned into both private and public areas, offers a cafe, lounge and industrial loft apartments for renting. 

5. Give Your Wallet a Break 

One of Licking County’s most appealing features is its affordability. Compared to the neighboring city of Columbus, living here is a much more budget-friendly choice. The cost of living is 10% lower than the national average and 9% lower than Ohio’s average. Real estate prices are equally attractive, especially for those coming from some of the country’s biggest cities, with the average home costing around $315,000 (Zillow, April 2024).

Living in Licking County ensures you can enjoy a high quality of life without breaking the bank, making it an irresistible choice for those seeking financial peace of mind.