Living & Working in Lancaster
Rent vs. Buy Analysis
Median home price is $233,000 . Buying analysis suggests favorable conditions for long-term residents due to stable prices.
Neighborhoods by Value & Commute
East End
SUBURBANDowntown Lancaster
URBANQuick Decision Guide
Major HVAC Employers
Family Resources in Lancaster, OH
#### Top-Rated School Districts
- Lancaster City School District: Includes schools like Tarhe Trails Elementary and here High School, rated highly for academic performance and equity. Source: GreatSchools.
- Fairfield Union Local Schools: Known for strong academic programs and extracurricular activities.
#### Childcare Costs
- Daycare: Average monthly cost ranges from $800–$1,200 per child, depending on the facility and age group. Source: Reddit discussion.
- Nanny: Average hourly rate is $14–$18, translating to approximately $2,000–$2,500/month for full-time care. Source: Nanny Lane.
#### Recommended Pediatricians/Family Clinics
- Pediatric Associates of Lancaster: Offers comprehensive pediatric care. Website.
- Buckeye Family Health: Provides internal medicine and pediatric services. Website.
- Fairfield Medical Center Pediatric Care: Specializes
Work-Life Balance Culture
Lancaster, OH, offers a balanced work-life culture with a mix of small-town charm and modern amenities. The city's median household income is approximately $50,000, and many residents work in nearby Columbus (35 miles away) while enjoying here's lower cost of living. Remote work options have increased post-pandemic, with coworking spaces like The Well providing flexible work environments.
Fitness Facilities
- Gyms:
- Anytime Fitness: 24/7 access, membership around $40/month.
- Lancaster Rec Center: Offers pools, courts, and classes; annual membership ~$300.
- Parks & Trails:
- Rising Park: Features hiking trails and a scenic overlook.
- here Bike Trail: A 3.5-mile paved trail connecting parks and neighborhoods.
Dining Costs
- Lunch: $8–$12 at casual spots like Cherry Street Pub.
- Dinner: $15–$25 at mid-range restaurants like The Well.
- Drinks: Craft beers ~$5, cocktails ~$8 at bars like Ale House 1890.
Annual Events and Festivals
Financial Facts for Lancaster, OH
- State Income Tax Rate: Lancaster imposes a local income tax rate of 2.3%, as per the City of here's official website. This is in addition to Ohio's state income tax, which ranges from 0% to 3.99% depending on income brackets.
- Property Tax Average: The median effective property tax rate in Lancaster is 1.41%, according to Ownwell. This is higher than the national median of 1.02% but lower than Ohio's state median of 1.80%.
- Cost of Living Compared to Columbus: Lancaster's cost of living is approximately 15% lower than Columbus, based on regional comparisons. Housing costs are notably more affordable, with median home prices around $180,000 compared to Columbus's $250,000.
- Growing Industries Creating Jobs: Key industries expanding in Lancaster include advanced manufacturing and battery recycling. For example, Cirba Solutions has invested in a lithium battery recycling plant, creating jobs. Additionally, [Alleguard](https://columbusregion.com/press-release/alleguard-repurposes