Dublin • September 25, 2025
Good morning, Dublin. Conventional wisdom about urban crime rates is being turned on its head by new data showing Columbus has the lowest violent crime rate among Ohio's large cities. At 434.9 incidents per 100,000 people, Columbus ranks better than many smaller communities across the state – though the rate still exceeds state and national averages. This statistical reality offers a fascinating contrast to popular narratives about urban safety versus small-town tranquility.
The real estate landscape continues to thrive with eye-popping transactions, including a massive $118.8 million commercial building near Rickenbacker and Dublin claiming three of the region's top six residential sales. Adding to this development momentum, a fresh approach to housing is emerging through the "Yes, in God's backyard" initiative, where church properties are being reimagined as solutions to housing challenges – including transforming the vacant St. Ladislas Church into a resource for homeless youth.
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📊 Small Ohio towns have higher violent crime than Columbus. Columbus ranked lowest among Ohio's large cities for violent crime in 2024, with a rate of 434.9 per 100,000 people. Despite political claims about urban lawlessness, the highest crime rates were found in small communities like Elmwood Place and Lockland. Columbus' rate was lower than several small cities and some suburbs, though still above state and national averages. While Columbus ranks 31st statewide for violent crime, Cleveland holds the second position with a rate more than three times higher.
🏢 Massive $118.8 million commercial building leads property transfers near Rickenbacker. The Columbus-area real estate market saw significant activity in early September, with Icon DP WH Columbus Owner Pool 3 Midwest LLC purchasing the Shook Road property from Selco Service Corporation. In residential sales, Upper Arlington topped the list with a $1.95 million home on Dorchester Road, while Dublin claimed three of the top six spots. Licking County's residential market was active with five properties changing hands, while Delaware and Fairfield counties reported no valid sales during the September 8-12 period.
🏠 Churches are saying "yes" to housing in their backyards. Columbus City Council President Shannon Hardin is leading a new movement to develop unused church lands for housing solutions. Called "Yes, in God's backyard," the initiative counters NIMBY-ism that often blocks development. St. Ladislas Church, vacant since 2023, will become a drop-in center for homeless youth as part of this effort. The plan brings together city leadership and faith communities, including Rev. John Edgar who has dedicated decades to housing solutions.
Premium Custom Build Dream Home: Custom dream home available for $409,000 through Parry Custom Homes, a family-owned builder known for high-quality construction and design flexibility, offering upscale features like granite countertops and hardwood floors with a 95% customer satisfaction rate.
Spacious Dublin home needs updates: Priced at $495,000, this Dublin two-story home in Indian Run Meadows features 4BR/3.5BA, a partial basement, and sits on a half-acre lot, though it needs some updating.
Private riverside woodland hideaway: Priced at $449,000, this unique property offers two houses nestled in a private wooded setting with stream frontage, providing access to the Scioto River and featuring a charming old stone wall along the driveway.
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