Is Kenton Safe, Pros and cons of living in Kenton
Kenton, Ohio, is a city that offers a blend of small-town charm and practical amenities, making it a place of interest for those seeking a quieter lifestyle. Situated in Hardin County, it provides a community atmosphere with access to essential services and a connection to the surrounding rural landscape. The city’s identity is shaped by its history, its people, and its ongoing efforts to foster a stable and welcoming environment for its residents.
The community of Kenton is characterized by its population of approximately 7,663 individuals (as of the most recent Census data). The median age in Kenton is 41 years, indicating a balanced demographic spread across different age groups. This age composition suggests a community with both established residents and opportunities for younger families. The racial makeup is predominantly White, at 93.3%. A significant portion of the population, about 17.4%, are children under 15, while those aged 65 and older represent approximately 19.6%.
Is it Safe to Live in Kenton?
Kenton presents a generally safe environment for its residents, with crime rates that are notably lower than national averages. The overall crime rate in Kenton is 21% lower than the national average (according to AreaVibes). Violent crimes are also significantly lower, being 36% below the national average.
When considering personal safety, your chance of becoming a victim of crime in Kenton is approximately 1 in 60. Within the city, residents often perceive the southern neighborhoods as the safest. The violent crime rate is reported at 1.4 per 1,000 residents, which is 61% below the national average. The total projected cost of crime per resident is $451 annually, which is slightly less than the national average.
Housing Costs and Availability
Kenton offers a highly affordable housing market, making it an attractive option for homebuyers and renters. The median home value in Kenton is $92,400, which is substantially lower than the national average. This affordability extends to rental properties, with a median gross rent of $625 per month.
For homeowners, the median housing cost is around $698 per month. The cost of living in Kenton is also significantly lower than both the state and national averages, with housing costs being 51% lower than the national average. Renters can expect to pay a median of $718 per month for rent. The housing market is described as somewhat competitive, with homes selling in an average of 56 days.
Job Market and Economic Landscape
The job market in Kenton is supported by a workforce of approximately 3,353 residents. Key employment sectors include manufacturing, which employs a significant number of residents, followed by educational services and construction. Many residents are employed in professional or administrative roles, with a smaller percentage in hands-on or service-based jobs.
The unemployment rate in Kenton is reported at 5.7%. Major employers in the Kenton area include companies like Walmart, McDonald’s, Dollar General, and Kroger. Other significant businesses contributing to the local economy include Olympic Steel and Coleman Professional Services. The Hardin County Chamber & Business Alliance actively works to foster economic growth through business attraction and retention efforts.
Climate and Weather Patterns
Kenton experiences distinct seasonal weather patterns, with warm summers and cold, snowy winters. The average annual temperature ranges from a low of 17°F to a high of 84°F. July is typically the hottest month, with average highs around 84°F and lows of 64°F. Conversely, January is the coldest month, with average highs of 33°F and lows of 18°F.
The city receives an average of 38 inches of precipitation annually, including rain and snowfall. June is generally the wettest month, while February sees the least amount of rain. The climate risk for Kenton is rated as “Very Low”. Comfortable weather, characterized by mild temperatures and low humidity, typically occurs from May to September.
Education and School System
Kenton City School District serves the educational needs of the community, operating three public schools that cater to approximately 1,843 students. The district’s performance is rated as a C+. While the district has a graduation rate of 87%, its average math and reading proficiency scores are below the Ohio state averages.
Kenton High School is ranked among public high schools in the area, with a student-teacher ratio of 15:1. Kenton Elementary School shows proficiency rates that exceed district and state averages in certain grades, though it faces challenges with chronic absenteeism. The Kenton City District schools generally hold a 2-star rating from SchoolDigger, indicating areas for improvement in overall quality and performance.
Demographics and Community Profile
Kenton’s population is approximately 7,663 residents, with a median age of 41 years. The community is predominantly White, comprising 93.3% of the population, with smaller percentages of other racial and ethnic groups. The gender distribution is nearly balanced, with 50.3% male and 49.7% female residents.
The median household income in Kenton is $56,033, though a portion of families, around 14.7%, live below the poverty line. The average household income is reported as $77,168. Housing costs are a significant factor in the cost of living, which is 18% lower than the national average.
Major Employers and Economic Drivers
The economic landscape of Kenton is diverse, with manufacturing forming a core industry. Companies such as Graphic Packaging, Robinson Fin Machines Inc., and SBHPP-Durez are noted as significant economic leaders in the area. Olympic Steel and Precision Strip are also prominent businesses contributing to the industrial sector.
Beyond manufacturing, retail and education also play important roles in employment. Major retail employers include Walmart, Kroger, and Dollar General. The Hardin County Chamber & Business Alliance is dedicated to supporting economic development through business attraction, retention, and entrepreneurship initiatives.