The Best Neighborhoods in Franklin County, Ohio for Families: An Expert's Guide

Families looking for the perfect place to settle down and raise their children will find plenty of options in Franklin County, Ohio. From the historic charm of Upper Arlington to the bustling energy of Bexley, there's something for everyone. If you're searching for the best schools and don't mind paying the highest prices associated with them, Bexley is the place to be. This small suburb is located just 3 miles east of downtown Columbus and has a population of 13,900.

It's incredibly safe, with a violent crime rate 77% lower than the national average. Plus, it's home to Capital University and the Scioto Country Club, where golf legend Jack Nicklaus started playing. Gahanna is another popular area for families, offering a combination of great schools, a supportive community, and lots of fun things to do and explore. With a population of more than 35,000, it's 8 miles from downtown Columbus but still has plenty of community charm.

It connects to five of the most extensive highways in central Ohio, making it easy to get to the airport or downtown Easton for shopping. Upper Arlington is an incredibly historic area with lots of adorable boutiques and stores. It's home to the Upper Arlington Art Festival, which attracts up to 30,000 people each Labor Day. The school district received an A grade from Niche and was ranked 23rd out of 607 school districts in Ohio.

Unfortunately, it has a great lack of diversity among residents, so it received a C- from Niche.

New Albany

is another thriving suburb close to US 62 on the south side of Columbus. It's known as a university town and is home to the Capital University School of Law and Columbus State. It has plenty of retail chains along East Main Street and cultural attractions like the Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Garden, the Drexel Theater, and Wolfe Park.

Powell

, Ohio is smaller than other areas but offers more schools than you would expect. With 16 elementary schools, five middle schools, four high schools, and one preschool, there are numerous options for your child's education.

Plus, it has a higher national test average than other cities. No matter which suburb you choose in Franklin County, you'll find plenty of high-end establishments within walkable communities. There are also museums such as the COSI and the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium. Consider the reasonable cost of living, great schools, and relaxed lifestyle when deciding where to start your family.