This Charming Community Might Just Be The Most Peaceful Place To Live In Ohio
By Sarah McCosham|Published November 20, 2023
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Sarah McCosham
Author
I write like it's my job - because it is! I have a Master's in English and love words: crossword puzzles, Scrabble games, Wordle, and, of course, good, old-fashioned books.
I'm a writer and editor at OnlyInYourState, and a contributing writer at Cincinnati Magazine. I love the Great Outdoors and am endlessly awestruck by this beautiful country of ours. Coffee keeps me going, yoga keeps me sane, my kids keep me grounded, and my writing keeps me inspired.
For those looking for small-town vibes with metropolitan amenities, mid-sized cities are the best of both worlds. Ohio is full of these “just right” kind of towns, and today we’re taking a virtual visit to one of my favorites. Nestled in west-central Ohio between Dayton and Columbus, Urbana is a charming mid-sized community of about 11,000 that offers Ohioans a peaceful place to live, work, and play. An officially recognized International City of Peace, Urbana is a charming and walkable Buckeye State community that really does have it all.
Urbana is a rare unicorn; that perfect mix of small-town sensibility and big-city swagger (and amenities) that offers residents, well, everything.
This town of around 11,000 is a Goldilocks-perfect place where residents are recognized by name and businesses are bolstered and appreciated by both city government and local patrons. It's home to a postcard-perfect public square surrounding by a thriving business district that's walkable, historic, and unforgettable.
With a community-minded ethos that values respect and seeks to promote policies and procedures establishing peace, Urbana received International City of Peace designation in 2016.
...while town attractions like the Johnny Appleseed Museum (pictured) speak to the town's history by providing context about one of the most iconic horticulturists of all time. John Chapman, known as Johnny Appleseed, espoused the virtues of generosity, humility, and stewardship -- qualities the community Urbana values and celebrates.
Johnny Appleseed Museum, 518 College Way, Urbana, OH 43078, USA
This community-mindedness is felt by so many of the businesses and shops in town, too, with The Farmer's Daughter a beloved restaurant known for hearty, all-American classics and friendly service.
The Farmer's Daughter, 904 Miami St, Urbana, OH 43078, USA
When the sun begins to set on Public Square, you might find yourself already feeling nostalgic for this impossibly charming community in Ohio. Appreciate your surroundings and take it all in -- and don't be surprised to find yourself returning again and again!
