Is Sunbury Safe, Pros and cons of living in Sunbury

Sunbury, Ohio, offers a blend of suburban tranquility and community-focused living, making it an appealing choice for those seeking a well-rounded place to call home. The city is known for its growing population and developing amenities, attracting families and individuals alike. Its location provides a balance between peaceful residential areas and convenient access to larger metropolitan services.

This guide delves into the various facets of life in Sunbury, covering essential aspects such as safety, cost of living, employment opportunities, and the local environment. Understanding these elements is crucial for anyone considering a move to this dynamic Ohio city.

Is it Safe to Live in Sunbury?

Sunbury, Ohio, presents a generally safe environment for its residents. The crime rate in Sunbury is reported as 10.16 per 1,000 residents annually (according to Crime Grade). This rate is significantly lower than the average US city, with Sunbury ranking in the 96th percentile for safety, indicating it is safer than 96% of U.S. cities (as reported by Crime Grade). Residents often consider the northern parts of the city to be the safest, with the chance of being a victim of crime varying by neighborhood from 1 in 69 in the east to 1 in 120 in the north.

The cost associated with crime in Sunbury is also notably lower than national and state averages. The cost of crime per resident is approximately $188 annually, which is $276 less than the national average and $253 less than Ohio’s state average (as reported by Crime Grade). These figures contribute to the overall sense of security and affordability for those living in Sunbury.

Sunbury’s Economy and Job Market

Major Employers

The economic landscape of Sunbury, Ohio, is supported by a diverse range of employers. While specific major employers can fluctuate, the presence of healthcare, retail, and manufacturing sectors typically drives employment. The city’s growth also fosters opportunities in various service industries and local businesses, contributing to its economic vitality.

For those seeking employment within Sunbury and its surrounding areas, understanding the key industries is beneficial. The healthcare sector, retail trade, and manufacturing often represent significant employment opportunities, providing a stable job market for residents. The continuous development within the region also creates new roles in construction and service-oriented businesses.

Unemployment and Salary Outlook

The unemployment rate in Sunbury, Ohio, generally remains competitive. While specific figures can vary, the general trend indicates a stable job market. The average salary in Sunbury, Ohio, is approximately $46,700 annually, translating to about $22.45 per hour (as reported by ZipRecruiter). This figure provides a baseline for understanding earning potential within the city.

Salaries in Sunbury typically range between $34,789 and $55,555 annually, depending on occupation, experience, and other factors (as reported by ZipRecruiter). This range reflects the diverse professional landscape and opportunities available to residents. The cost of living in Sunbury is also a factor to consider, with overall expenses being 1% lower than the national average (as reported by Payscale).

Cost of Living in Sunbury

Housing Expenses

Housing costs in Sunbury, Ohio, are a significant factor in its overall cost of living. The median listing price for homes in Sunbury is approximately $548,400 (as reported by Realtor.com). This figure represents the current market value for properties available for sale within the city.

Rental prices also form a key part of the housing market. The median rent in Sunbury is around $2,600 per month (as reported by Realtor.com). Year-over-year, rental prices have seen a decrease of approximately 3.60%, suggesting potential opportunities for renters. However, it’s important to note that housing expenses in Sunbury are 14% higher than the national average (as reported by Payscale).

Everyday Expenses

Beyond housing, daily expenses in Sunbury are generally in line with or slightly above national averages. Grocery prices in Sunbury are approximately 1% higher than the national average (as reported by Payscale). Utility prices in Sunbury are comparable to the national average, showing no significant difference.

Transportation costs, however, tend to be lower. Expenses like bus fares and gas prices are about 8% lower than the national average in Sunbury (as reported by Payscale). Healthcare costs in Sunbury are also notably lower, running 19% below the national average (as reported by Payscale).

Climate and Environment

Temperature and Precipitation

Sunbury, Ohio, experiences a climate with distinct seasons. Throughout the year, temperatures typically range from a low of 20°F in January to a high of 85°F in July (as reported by myPerfectWeather). This provides a varied climate with warm summers and cold winters.

Annual precipitation in Sunbury averages around 43 inches, with about 24 inches of that being snowfall (as reported by myPerfectWeather). The month of June typically sees the most rainfall, with an average of 5 inches. The humidity levels remain comfortable during the summer months, contributing to a pleasant environment.

Comfortable Weather Days

Sunbury enjoys a considerable number of days with comfortable weather annually. Approximately 183 days, or six months, of the year are considered to have comfortable weather conditions (as reported by myPerfectWeather). This is calculated based on mild temperatures and low humidity levels.

The most favorable times to visit or enjoy the outdoors in Sunbury are generally from May to October. During this period, daily high temperatures fall between 65°F and 86°F, with low dew points and moderate wind speeds. This makes Sunbury an attractive destination for those who appreciate pleasant weather for a significant portion of the year.

Demographics and Community

Population and Diversity

Sunbury, Ohio, is a growing city with a projected population of 11,195 in 2026 (as reported by Data USA). The city has experienced significant population growth, increasing by 66.47% since 2020. The racial composition is predominantly White, making up 93.84% of the population, with smaller percentages for other races and ethnicities (as reported by Data USA).

The demographic makeup also includes a high rate of citizenship, with 98.2% of residents being citizens (as reported by Data USA). The median age in Sunbury is 35.5 years, with a slightly higher proportion of females to males (as reported by Data USA). A small percentage of residents, 5.19%, live below the poverty line, which is lower than the national average (as reported by Data USA).

Education and Schools

Sunbury’s educational landscape is primarily served by the Big Walnut Local School District. This district includes several schools, such as Big Walnut Middle School and Big Walnut High School, which generally perform well. The district’s high school boasts a strong 4-year graduation rate of 97.8%, which is above the state average (as reported by SchoolDigger.com).

Schools in Sunbury are rated highly, with Big Walnut Local School District ranking better than 88.6% of all U.S. school districts and 83.6% of Ohio school districts (as reported by NeighborhoodScout). While the district generally exceeds state standards in academic achievement and gap closing, there have been noted areas for improvement in student growth (as reported by Ohio Department of Education).