Are You Thinking About
Moving to Columbiana, Ohio?
Reader’s Digest named Columbiana the “Nicest Place in America.”
Columbiana is one of Ohio’s most desirable places to live for families, professionals, and retirees.
If you’re trying to figure out whether Columbiana is the right place to call home, this page will make your life easier. I put together a straightforward guide that covers what people actually want to know before moving here — neighborhoods, prices, schools, things to do, and what day-to-day life is really like.
Columbiana isn’t a big city. It’s a small, friendly community where people look out for each other, you can still leave your house to warm up before work, and downtown feels like something out of a Hallmark movie. If you want calm, safe, clean, and simple living — this is it.
What Makes Columbiana Stand Out
Lifestyle
Firestone Park, local festivals, downtown shopping, breweries, coffee shops, and a steady stream of community events make this town feel busy enough — without being overwhelming.
Schools
The district has a 95% graduation rate, small class sizes, and strong test scores. Parents like that teachers know the kids personally.
Neighborhoods
Columbiana has four main living styles: historic homes near downtown, newer subdivisions, low-maintenance villas, and rural properties with land. Buyers range from young families to retirees.
Cost of Living
Columbiana’s cost of living is 6–10% lower than the U.S. average, and home prices are 40% below national numbers. You simply get more for your money here.
A Real Look at Life in Columbiana
Columbiana has about 6,600 residents, and it’s known for being safe — crime rates are roughly 85% lower than the national average. It’s quiet, clean, and people genuinely take pride in the town.
Downtown has been getting better every year — trendy restaurants are starting to outnumber antique shops, which the guide calls a sign of “exciting evolution.”
Firestone Park is the heart of the town, offering lakes, trails, pickleball courts, a rose garden, disc golf, and summer events. The 68-acre park was originally a gift from Harvey Firestone, and it still feels like one.
If you want a calm, friendly place that still has enough going on, Columbiana hits the mark.
Newer Subdivisions
Like Old Saybrook, Arrowhead Lake, Firestone Farms have modern layouts, bigger lots, community amenities, and the big one — 15-year tax abatements on new construction.
Perfect for families and move-up buyers.
Maintenance-Free Villas / Condos
Single-story layouts, exterior maintenance included, and located close to the action.
A go-to option for empty-nesters and retirees.
Historic Downtown & Parkside
Character homes, walkability, tree-lined streets. Great for downsizers, first-time buyers, or anyone who likes being close to cafés and Firestone Park.
Rural Estates
More privacy, more land, fewer neighbors. Still within 10 minutes of town.
What is the cost of living here?
Columbiana is simply affordable.
Key numbers from the guide:
Overall cost of living index: 90–94 (vs 100 U.S. avg)
Homes: $170K–$200K median vs $338K nationally
Rent: $750–$800 for a 2-bedroom
Groceries: 10–20% cheaper
Property taxes: 1.2–1.5%
A typical family can live comfortably for $3,200/mo, which is about 27% less than the national average.
What are the schools like?
Columbiana Schools are well-rated, small, and community-supported.
Highlights:
95% graduation rate
18:1 student-teacher ratio
Top-tier reading and math scores
Active sports and extracurriculars
Strong AP and college-credit programs
Higher-education options nearby include YSU, Kent State Salem
What is there to do in Columbiana?
Columbiana’s social calendar is surprisingly packed for a small town. This isn't even the tip of the iceberg.
Popular Events
Spring Flower Festival
4th of July celebration
Columbiana Street Fair
Old-Fashioned Christmas + Joy of Christmas light show
Car shows
Parks & Recreation
Firestone Park
Athletix Sports Complex
Firestone Farms golf
Cycling routes
Firestone pool
Dining & Shopping
Generations Coffee House
Homestead Kitchen
Birdfish Brewing
Sundog Cellars
Boutiques, antique shops,
Frequently Asked Questions
People always ask me this about living in Columbiana.
What is the housing market like in Columbiana?
Median sale price: ~$250,000 (up 16% YoY)
Still 40–45% below U.S. median
Homes sell in 5–6 weeks on average
Competitive but not chaotic — bids at 97% of list price
Great mix of resale + new construction
15-Year CRA tax abatement makes new builds extremely attractive
Meet James Clark — Your Columbiana Ohio Relocation Specialist
With years of experience helping families and professionals relocate to the Mahoning Valley, I specialize in making your move to the Youngstown area seamless and rewarding. From virtual home tours to local insights you won’t find online, my goal is to help you find the right home and neighborhood that fits your life.
Quick Bio Highlights:
Licensed Realtor® with Underwood & Associates
Expertise in relocation, first-time homebuying, and virtual transactions
Deep knowledge of Mahoning Valley schools, neighborhoods, and real estate trends
Personalized guidance from consultation to closing day
Testimonials
Get Instant Access - No Obligations, just expert advice to make your move easier
Plan Your Move with Confidence
Before You Arrive
Moving from out of town can be overwhelming — new schools, new jobs, new routines. This guide gives you the local insight and professional support you need to make informed decisions before you buy. Plus, when you download it, you’ll also get access to:
Exclusive relocation checklists
Local service provider directory (movers, utilities, inspectors)
Free consultation to discuss your goals and timeline
Let’s make your relocation smooth, smart, and stress-free. Get your free guide below, then schedule your relocation call with me to plan your next steps.
Exclusive relocation checklists
Local service provider directory (movers, utilities, inspectors)
Free consultation to discuss your goals and timeline
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