What Buyers Should Know About Union County, Ohio Before Purchasing a Home 🏡🔑
Union County, Ohio, is becoming an increasingly popular destination for homebuyers looking for affordability, growth, and suburban charm just outside of Columbus. Whether you’re a first-time buyer, relocating for work, or searching for more space, understanding the local market and lifestyle is key to making a smart purchase.
Here’s what you need to know before buying a home in Union County, Ohio in 2025.
1. The Market is Competitive, But Opportunities Exist 📈
Union County remains a seller’s market, meaning demand is high and inventory is limited.
📊 Market Stats (January 2025):
- Median Home Price: $345,000 (up 6.2% year-over-year)
- Price per Square Foot: $181
- Homes Sold in December 2024: 101 (up from 66 in December 2023)
- Days on Market: 54 (slightly up from last year)
💡 Buyer Tip:
- Act Fast: Desirable homes in affordable price ranges sell quickly—get pre-approved before house hunting.
- Be Ready to Compete: Multiple offers are common, so work with a local agent to craft a strong, strategic offer.
2. Affordability Compared to Columbus 🏡💲
Union County offers a great balance of affordability and space compared to Columbus and other Central Ohio suburbs.
🔹 Why Buyers Are Choosing Union County:
- Lower Home Prices: Compared to areas like Dublin or Upper Arlington, you’ll get more home for your money.
- Larger Lots & Newer Homes: Many homes in Union County offer larger yards, modern floor plans, and newer builds compared to Columbus city homes.
- Lower Property Taxes: Depending on the township, property taxes can be lower than in Franklin County.
💡 Buyer Tip:
- Look at New Construction: Union County has many new build communities, especially in Marysville and Plain City, offering modern layouts with energy-efficient features.
3. Different Areas Offer Different Lifestyles 🏘️
Union County has a mix of suburban neighborhoods, rural farmland, and small-town living.
📍 Popular Areas for Homebuyers:
- Marysville – The county’s largest city with shopping, dining, and top-rated schools.
- Plain City – A fast-growing town with new developments, yet still offering a rural feel.
- Richwood & Magnetic Springs – Great options for buyers seeking more land and privacy.
- Jerome Township – Ideal for those looking for newer homes with easy access to Columbus.
💡 Buyer Tip:
- Consider your commute, lifestyle, and amenities when choosing the right area—some towns have more rural settings, while others are experiencing rapid growth.
4. Job Growth is Fueling Housing Demand 💼
Union County is home to major employers, making it a great place to live and work.
🚀 Top Employers in Union County:
- Honda of America Manufacturing – A major economic driver with thousands of employees.
- Scotts Miracle-Gro – A leading company headquartered in nearby Marysville.
- Nestlé R&D – Providing job opportunities in the food and science industries.
- Growing Tech & Logistics Sector – New businesses are moving into the area, creating steady job growth.
💡 Buyer Tip:
- Living close to work can save commute time—if working in Columbus, consider homes near Route 33 for easy access to the city.
5. Schools & Community Appeal for Families 🎓
For buyers with children, school quality is often a top priority. Union County offers strong public school districts and tight-knit communities that make it an appealing place to raise a family.
🏫 Top School Districts:
- Marysville Exempted Village Schools – Highly rated schools with strong academics and extracurriculars.
- Jonathan Alder Local Schools (Plain City) – Well-regarded for its small class sizes and community involvement.
- North Union Local Schools (Richwood) – A solid choice for families looking for a rural school environment.
💡 Buyer Tip:
- Check school ratings and boundaries before buying, as some homes are zoned for different districts within Union County.
6. Infrastructure & Future Development 🚧
Union County is expanding rapidly, and buyers should consider future development when purchasing a home.
🏗️ What’s Coming:
- New Housing Developments – Expect continued growth, especially in Marysville and Jerome Township.
- Highway & Road Expansions – Improvements along US-33 will make commuting even easier.
- Retail & Dining Growth – More businesses and restaurants are coming to Plain City and Marysville.
💡 Buyer Tip:
- Research upcoming developments near your potential home—new roads, schools, or shopping centers could increase property values over time.
7. Know Your Financing & Mortgage Options 🏦
Union County offers competitive mortgage rates and loan programs that may help buyers save money.
💰 Financing Tips:
- USDA Loans – Many rural areas in Union County qualify for 0% down payment USDA loans.
- First-Time Buyer Programs – Ohio offers down payment assistance and tax credits for eligible buyers.
- Interest Rates & Pre-Approval – Mortgage rates hover around 6.37%, so lock in a rate early if planning to buy soon.
💡 Buyer Tip:
- Work with a local lender who understands Union County’s unique financing options.
Final Thoughts: Is Union County Right for You?
Union County, Ohio, offers affordable home prices, growing job opportunities, and a fantastic suburban lifestyle—all while remaining close to Columbus. Whether you’re looking for a quiet rural escape or a home in a growing community, Union County has something for every type of buyer.
🏡 Thinking about buying a home in Union County? Let’s talk!
📧 Email: [email protected]
📞 Phone: (740) 341-2636
🌐 Website: MoreOhio.com
🚪 Let’s find the perfect home for you in Union County! 🏡
