Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Bellefontaine, OH
Considering a move to Bellefontaine, OH? With a friendly population of just over 13,000, Bellefontaine offers a low cost of living—median home prices are around $150K and average rent is $820. Residents enjoy short 19-minute commutes, a charming small-town feel, and proximity to quality schools and healthcare. While property crime rates are above the national average, the area boasts affordable utilities, a moderate climate with 54% sunny days, and a welcoming, close-knit community. Check out details on housing, schools, and local amenities to see if Bellefontaine could be your next home.
Demographics - Bellefontaine, OH
Demographics - Bellefontaine, OH
Bellefontaine is home to about 13,350 residents, with a median age of 36.4 and a population density that reflects its small-town character. The community is predominantly White, with modest diversity and a nearly even gender ratio. Non-English speakers make up a small portion of the population, contributing to the city's welcoming and neighborly atmosphere.
Population:
13,350
Density:
1,750 per sq mi
Median Age:
36.4
Gender Ratio:
95 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
3.5%
Ethnic Composition
White:
90.2%
Black:
3.8%
Asian:
1.0%
Others:
5.0%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Bellefontaine, OH?
Bellefontaine offers an affordable cost of living, with median home values around $150,000 and average rents at $820 per month. Residents benefit from lower-than-average state taxes and utility costs, making it an attractive option for families and individuals seeking budget-friendly living. Groceries, healthcare, and transportation costs are all below national averages, supporting a comfortable lifestyle without high expenses.
Median House Value:
$150,000
Gross Rent:
$820
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$120
Auto Insurance:
$1,120
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,120
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$410
State Taxes:
Low:
2.765%
|
High:
3.99%
Cost Of Living Index:
81.3
Grocery:
93.1
Housing:
68.4
Utilities:
95.6
Transportation:
92.3
Health Care:
91.7
Miscellaneous:
87.2
Crime
Is Bellefontaine, OH a safe place to live?
While Bellefontaine has a higher-than-average property crime rate, with a 1 in 45 chance, violent crime remains relatively low at a 1 in 360 chance. The overall crime index suggests residents should stay mindful but can generally feel safe in most neighborhoods. Local law enforcement works actively to maintain a secure community environment.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
278
Property Crimes Per 100k:
2,180
Crime Index:
2,458
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 360
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 45
Weather
What is the weather like in Bellefontaine, OH year-round?
Residents experience all four seasons, with mild to cold winters (averaging lows of 20°F) and warm summers (highs around 83°F). The city sees about 54% sunny days and receives 39 inches of rainfall annually, providing a balanced climate for outdoor activities. Spring and fall bring pleasant temperatures, making the city inviting year-round.
Winter
Min:
20°F
Max:
36°F
Spring
Min:
40°F
Max:
66°F
Summer
Min:
62°F
Max:
83°F
Fall
Min:
43°F
Max:
68°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
39.2 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
54%
Neighbors
Typical households in Bellefontaine have an income around $52,100, while the poverty rate is somewhat higher than national averages at 17.5%. Most adults have at least a high school diploma, and commute times are short, averaging under 19 minutes. The community is close-knit, with limited public transportation usage and a moderate unemployment rate.
Median Income:
$29,800
Household Income:
$52,100
Family Income:
$63,800
Per Capita Income:
$25,700
Income Male:
$36,500
Income Female:
$29,200
Poverty Rate:
17.5%
Non English Speakers:
3.5%
Rent:
$820
Unemployment Rate:
4.8%
Public Transport Usage:
0.5%
Commute Time:
18.9 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
89.8%
Bachelors or More:
17.6%
Education
How are the schools in Bellefontaine, OH?
Bellefontaine provides a range of educational opportunities, from public schools like Bellefontaine High School and Middle School to private options such as Calvary Christian School. Local schools have favorable student-teacher ratios and supportive learning environments. For higher education, residents are served by nearby institutions including Ohio Hi-Point Career Center and access to universities within short driving distance.
Public Schools
Name:
Bellefontaine High School
Street:
555 E Lake Ave
Phone:
937-593-0545
Students:
700
Student Teacher Ratio:
17.0
Name:
Bellefontaine Middle School
Street:
1201 Ludlow Rd
Phone:
937-593-9010
Students:
750
Student Teacher Ratio:
16.2
Private Schools
Name:
Calvary Christian School
Street:
1140 Rush Ave
Phone:
937-599-6847
Students:
250
Colleges
Name:
Ohio Hi-Point Career Center
City:
Bellefontaine
State:
OH
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
450
Name:
Urbana University (closed, nearest: Ohio State University – Lima)
City:
Lima
State:
OH
Distance:
38 miles
Students:
3,200
Healthcare
Residents have access to quality healthcare, including Mary Rutan Hospital, a full-service facility with emergency services. With 2.1 physicians per 1,000 people and nearly 93% health insurance coverage, most Bellefontaine residents enjoy reliable medical care. The city’s healthcare index reflects solid service availability and accessibility.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Mary Rutan Hospital
Address:
205 Palmer Ave, Bellefontaine, OH 43311
Phone:
(937) 592-4015
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.1
Health Insurance Coverage:
92.8%
Health Care Index:
67.2
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Bellefontaine, OH?
Bellefontaine’s housing market is notably affordable, with median home prices at $150,000 and rents for a two-bedroom averaging $820. Over half of residents own their homes, and the area has seen steady home appreciation in recent years. Rental vacancies remain moderate, offering options for both buyers and renters.
Median Home Price:
$150,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$820
Owner Occupied Rate:
56.4%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
6.8%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
5.2%
New Construction Rate:
0.8%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.7%
DMV Information
Local vehicle and licensing services are managed by the Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles, conveniently located on County Road 32 N. Residents can access standard DMV services including registration, licensing, and title transfers. For more information, the official website offers helpful resources and contact details.
State:
Ohio
Department:
Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles
Address:
1365 County Road 32 N, Bellefontaine, OH 43311
Phone:
(937) 599-6565
Website:
Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is based on publicly available sources including AccuWeather, U.S. Census Bureau, local government data, and third-party partners such as Neustar. While we strive to ensure accuracy, all data is provided “as is” and should be independently verified before making any decisions. Movers.com makes no guarantees regarding the completeness or reliability of the information.