Norwalk 80 Exceptional
Norwalk Livability #119 ranked city in Ohio#1,831 ranked city in the USARanks better than 93% of areas
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Pros and Cons of Living in Norwalk

PROS
  • Amenities Amenities

    A wealth of amenities, such as restaurants, coffee shops, grocery stores, parks and fitness facilities, are all conveniently located within walking distance.

  • Cost Of Living Cost Of Living

    Taking into account the cost of goods and services like housing, groceries, transportation and utilities, the overall cost of living in this area is well below average.

  • Crime Crime

    Crime per 100,000 people is significantly lower than the national average, making it a safe place to live. These crime statistics include both violent and property crimes.

  • Housing Housing

    High scores in the housing category are a distinguishing feature of this area, possibly driven by a favorable home affordability ratio, higher home values and appreciation rates.

  • Health & Safety Health & Safety

    Good air quality as well as nearby health facilities like hospitals, clinics, nursing homes, fire and police stations all contribute to a higher than average health and safety score.

CONS
  • Commute Commute

    A low commute score could be due to longer-than-average work commutes and the limited availability of public transportation in this area.

What's it like Living in Norwalk?

Located in the state of Ohio, Norwalk is a moderately-sized city with a population of 17,464 inhabitants. If we look at the most recent Census, Norwalk is known to have a predominantly White population. The next two most common races are Black and Asian.

Are you trying to ascertain if living in Norwalk is the right fit for your lifestyle? To ensure a positive experience before relocating to any new city in Ohio, you will probably want to make sure that you check all of the most important boxes. Several key factors deserve attention. For one, safety is paramount, ensuring that your new area is low in crime is key. Proximity to workplaces or schools minimizes commute times and fosters convenience. Access to essential amenities like parks, grocery stores, food, fitness, shops and healthcare facilities enhances daily life. Efficient public transportation options provide mobility and connectivity. The sense of community creates a welcoming and supportive environment. Lastly, the overall atmosphere, encompassing the vibe, aesthetics, and lifestyle offerings, contributes to a fulfilling living experience. Considering these elements helps identify the ideal neighborhood for your needs and preferences. The best areas in Norwalk and in surrounding cities are easier to find when you are able to make informed decisions. Using data from cost of living, health & safety, education, employment, housing, you will see a detailed breakdown of the most important information as well as comparisons to the Ohio and national averages.

With a livability score of 79 out of 100, Norwalk is ranked #1,829 in the United States and #114 in Ohio. Based on this score, Norwalk would be considered a very livable city! This city is also ranked in the top 10 percentile of all cities across the USA. Based on the grades for each individual category, Norwalk has received high marks for amenities (A), crime (A+), education (A) and housing (A+).

The mantra of real estate, "location, location, location," underscores the importance of where a property is situated, making it a pivotal factor in your quest for a new home. Fortunately, when you're living in Norwalk, you'll discover an abundance of exceptional local amenities and lots of things to do. Among these are conveniently located grocery stores, charming coffee shops, diverse dining options and plenty of spacious parks. These local amenities contribute significantly to its overall appeal, ensuring that your daily needs are met and offering ample opportunities for leisure and recreation. When considering your next move, the thriving local scene in Norwalk undoubtedly enhances its desirability, affirming the significance of its prime location.

Low rates of violent crime, encompassing offenses such as murder, rape, robbery and assault, contribute significantly to a safer living environment. This reduction in crime minimizes the chances of personal harm, property theft, or violent incidents. Furthermore, low crime rates can have a positive impact on property values and the overall desirability of an area. There were 41 crimes per 100,000 residents, which signifies that Norwalk boasts an impressively low violent crime rate that falls well below the national average.

Unemployment rates can vary significantly among cities, impacting job prospects, wage levels and the overall economic health of an area. In Norwalk, the unemployment rate stands at 2.7%, suggesting increased job opportunities and a heightened demand for workers. This scenario can lead to higher wages, as the demand for employees outpaces job availability. Importantly, a low unemployment rate often signifies a robust and flourishing local economy.

Test scores serve as a vital gauge of a school's academic prowess and the proficiency of its students. They play a pivotal role in assessing whether local schools can deliver a robust educational foundation for children. In Norwalk, the schools boast an impressive average test score of 67%, significantly higher than the national average. This outstanding academic achievement not only reflects the excellence of the local educational system, but also indicates the potential for students to thrive academically, making it an attractive destination for families seeking a high-quality education for their children.

Real estate represents the most substantial investment for homebuyers, constituting their most valuable asset. Renters, on the other hand, typically see their monthly rent as their most significant expense. The Norwalk market earns a high score in the housing category, surpassing the national average in factors like home and rental affordability and appreciation rates. This robust real estate market not only benefits individual homeowners and renters but also spurs vigorous local economic activity and job growth, solidifying its significance in driving the region's prosperity and financial well-being.

Certain items on your wish list like shopping, restaurants, nightlife, parks and proximity to public transportation are all important things to look for. Having said that, perhaps the most important metric to consider when contemplating a move to Norwalk is real estate affordability. Median real estate prices in Norwalk come in at $243,314, which is 3.6% higher than the Ohio average. The home price to income ratio compares the median home prices to the median household income. In Norwalk, the home price to income ratio is 3.4, which is 9.7% higher than the Ohio average.

Best Places to Live in and Around Norwalk

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      Norwalk transportation information

      Statistic Norwalk Ohio National
      Average one way commute22min23min26min
      Workers who drive to work83.6%83.4%76.4%
      Workers who carpool10.9%7.8%9.3%
      Workers who take public transit0.1%1.7%5.1%
      Workers who bicycle0.0%0.3%0.6%
      Workers who walk2.4%2.3%2.8%
      Working from home2.6%3.7%4.6%
      Source: The Norwalk, OH data and statistics displayed above are derived from the United States Census Bureau American Community Survey (ACS) and include 2026 modeled data developed using proprietary methodologies.