Reviews & Comments
Chillicothe, OH
Charming town, a few negatives but getting better -
2/27/2022Chillicothe Ohio is a lovely little town that is heading in the right direction. My husband's family has lived here since 1910. We met 20 years ago and so I have seen this town transition from "good bone structure, but dull activities," to a much more vibrant community. Positive things: Chillicothe was the state capitol of Ohio twice before Columbus, so the city hall, government buildings and historic homes are impressive. The town is ringed by hills and has ample tall trees line the streets and parks. There is a large park in the center of town, and a large and small dog park. The large dog park is fenced and huge so that your dogs really feel like they got to run around. Downtown is lined with historic buildings, and now buzzes with activity, as the numerous new pubs, coffee shops and restaurants that draw people consistently. Most folks are friendly. It only takes a few minutes to get from one side of town to the other. It's easy to get to Columbus to the north and Cincinnati to the west. The libraries are good for a small town and more and more businesses like dance and yoga, and archery are popping up. The town has evolved a lot towards being more balanced politically (roughly 50/50 Dem and Repub.) and there are ethnic heritage and Pride celebrations/parades/festivals.
Negative things: While violent crime is as low or lower than the national average, property crime is quite high. (Bicycle theft and car break ins). The Mead papermill on the east end of town emits a pulpy smell about 1-2 times a week that lasts for about half a day. It's not as bad as a meat processing or chemical plant smell, but it's not great. Bottom line: People are nice, home prices are very good, it's got a gorgeous downtown but with the negative of the intermittent Mead odors.