Is Zanesville Safe, Pros and cons of living in Zanesville
Zanesville, Ohio, offers a distinctive blend of small-town charm and accessible amenities, making it a noteworthy consideration for those seeking a new place to call home. The city provides a cost of living that is notably lower than both the national and state averages, offering potential financial advantages to its residents. This affordability extends to housing, with median home prices and average rents significantly below the national figures.
The community is situated in Muskingum County, a region characterized by its industrial roots and a developing economy. Zanesville’s location along the Muskingum River adds to its scenic appeal, while its proximity to larger metropolitan areas like Columbus provides access to broader opportunities and resources. The city’s demographics reveal a predominantly White population, with smaller percentages of Black, Hispanic, and multiracial residents, reflecting a diverse, yet cohesive community fabric.
Is it Safe to Live in Zanesville?
Crime Statistics
Zanesville’s crime rates present a mixed picture, with certain categories exceeding national averages. The city has recorded a significant number of both violent and property crimes over recent years. Violent crime rates in Zanesville are notably higher than the national average (as reported by FBI crime data).
Property crime rates also stand above the national average, though motor vehicle theft rates are lower than the national average (as reported by FBI crime data). While specific crime statistics can fluctuate, it is important for residents and potential movers to be aware of these figures and to research neighborhood-specific safety data. The FBI Crime Data Explorer is a valuable resource for detailed crime statistics.
Neighborhood Safety
Safety perceptions can vary significantly by neighborhood within Zanesville. Some reports suggest that the northwest part of the city is considered the safest by residents. Conversely, other areas may experience higher crime rates, particularly property crime.
NeighborhoodScout data indicates that your chance of becoming a victim of violent crime in Zanesville varies by neighborhood, with some areas offering a lower risk than others. Understanding these neighborhood-specific safety profiles is crucial for assessing personal security when considering a move to Zanesville. Exploring local crime maps and community forums can provide further insights into perceived safety levels across different areas.
Cost of Living and Housing
Overall Cost of Living
Zanesville offers a cost of living that is considerably lower than the national average, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious individuals and families. The overall cost of living in Muskingum County is 75.9, compared to 100 for the United States on average (as reported by BestPlaces). This means residents’ income can go further in Zanesville for everyday expenses like groceries, transportation, and utilities.
This affordability is a significant draw for those looking to maximize their purchasing power. The lower cost of living contributes to a more manageable financial landscape for residents, allowing for greater disposable income. This economic advantage is a key factor for many considering a relocation to the area.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Zanesville is characterized by its affordability, with median home prices well below national and state averages. The median sale price of a home in Zanesville was $175,000 in March 2026 (as reported by Redfin). This is significantly lower than the national median home price, which hovers around $393,134 (as reported by BestNeighborhood.org).
Zanesville’s housing market is described as somewhat competitive. Homes typically sell after about 55 days on the market (as reported by Redfin). The median property value in Zanesville, OH was $182,200 in 2024 (as reported by Data Commons). This accessible housing market provides opportunities for a range of buyers, from first-time homeowners to those seeking more space.
Rental Market
For those considering renting, Zanesville also presents affordable options. The average rent in Zanesville, OH, is approximately $950 per month (as reported by Zillow). This figure is substantially lower than the national average rent, which is around $2,000 per month (as reported by Zillow).
Rental prices can vary, with a typical range for apartments falling between $500 and $1,070 per month in 2026 (as reported by Rent.). A one-bedroom apartment averages $850, while a two-bedroom averages $1,070. This makes Zanesville a relatively affordable city for renters.
Job Market and Economy
Major Employers
Zanesville’s economy is supported by a diverse range of employers, with healthcare and manufacturing playing significant roles. Genesis HealthCare System is a major employer, operating a hospital and affiliated healthcare organizations (as reported by Zippia). Zandex Health Care also provides significant employment in senior living and long-term care services (as reported by Zippia).
Other key contributors to the local job market include educational institutions like Muskingum University and Zane State College, which not only provide employment but also contribute to a skilled workforce. The Zanesville-Muskingum County Chamber of Commerce actively promotes business growth and development within the area, supporting both existing businesses and new ventures.
Employment and Unemployment
The unemployment rate in Zanesville, OH, is currently around 5.70% (as of March 2026, reported by YCharts). This rate is lower than the long-term average for the area, which has been around 9.08% (as reported by YCharts). The employment rate in Zanesville is reported at 92.6%, with a workforce of over 10,000 residents (as reported by Point2Homes).
The job market in Zanesville is characterized by a significant portion of white-collar workers, making up approximately 68% of the workforce, while blue-collar workers constitute the remaining 32% (as reported by Point2Homes). This indicates a workforce with a substantial presence in professional and administrative roles.
Average Salary
The average annual salary in Zanesville, OH, is approximately $41,000, or $19.71 per hour (as reported by Zippia). However, other sources indicate a slightly different average, with estimates around $58,281 annually as of April 2026 (as reported by ZipRecruiter). This range reflects varying methodologies and data sources for salary calculations.
Salaries in Zanesville can vary significantly based on occupation, experience, and industry. The city’s minimum wage rate is $8.80 per hour, which is above the federal minimum wage (as reported by Zippia). Most salaries in Zanesville fall between the 25th percentile of $35,500 and the 75th percentile of $81,014 annually (as reported by ZipRecruiter).
Climate and Weather
Seasonal Temperatures
Zanesville experiences distinct seasons, with warm, humid summers and cold, snowy winters. The summer season typically runs from late May to mid-September, with average daily high temperatures exceeding 74°F. July is the hottest month, with average highs around 83°F and lows of 64°F (as reported by Time and Date).
Conversely, the cold season lasts from early December to early March, with average daily high temperatures below 46°F. January is the coldest month, with average lows around 23°F and highs of 38°F (as reported by Time and Date). The temperature variation throughout the year is substantial, requiring residents to prepare for both warm and cold weather conditions.
Precipitation and Sunshine
Zanesville receives a moderate amount of precipitation throughout the year, distributed relatively evenly across the months. The climate graph indicates monthly precipitation levels, with some months experiencing higher rainfall than others (as reported by U.S. Climate Data). For example, spring and early summer months often see increased rainfall.
The city experiences partly cloudy conditions year-round. The clearest part of the year generally occurs from early June to early November, with September being the clearest month. The cloudier period extends from November to June, with January typically being the cloudiest month (as reported by Time and Date). This pattern influences the amount of sunshine residents can expect throughout the year.
Education and Demographics
School District Performance
The Zanesville City School District holds an overall Niche grade of C+ (as reported by Niche). Within the district, Zanesville High School also receives a C+ grade, with a student-teacher ratio of 17 to 1 (as reported by Niche). State test scores indicate that 24% of students are proficient in math and 48% in reading at Zanesville High School (as reported by Niche).
For the Zanesville City School District as a whole, 41% of students are proficient in math and 48% in reading. While these scores suggest room for academic improvement, the district also offers opportunities such as AP courses and gifted programs. Other school districts serving the Zanesville area, like West Muskingum Local School District, also receive favorable ratings (as reported by Niche).
Population and Demographics
As of the most recent US Census data, Zanesville has a population of approximately 24,740 residents, making it a mid-sized city within Ohio (as reported by Point2Homes). Projections suggest a slight population decrease in the coming years. The population is predominantly White, accounting for about 80.5%, followed by Black (8.5%), and multiracial residents (7.0%) (as reported by Census Bureau’s American Community Survey).
The median age in Zanesville is 36.9 years (as reported by World Population Review). The median household income was reported at $43,280 in 2024 (as reported by Point2Homes). A notable portion of families, around 20.8%, live below the poverty line (as reported by Point2Homes).
Major Employers and Industries
Key employers in Zanesville include Genesis HealthCare System and Zandex Health Care, highlighting the importance of the healthcare sector (as reported by Zippia). Educational institutions like Muskingum University and Zane State College also contribute significantly to the local economy and employment landscape (as reported by Zippia).
The Zanesville-Muskingum County Chamber of Commerce plays a vital role in supporting local businesses and promoting economic development. The region’s economy is also influenced by industries such as logistics and distribution, and food manufacturing, as noted by the Muskingum County Economic Development Organization. This diverse economic base provides a range of employment opportunities for residents.
Pros and Cons of Living in Zanesville
Advantages of Zanesville
Zanesville offers a significantly lower cost of living compared to both the national and state averages, providing financial relief for residents. The median home prices and average rental rates are notably affordable, making housing more accessible. The city boasts a strong presence in the healthcare sector, with major employers like Genesis HealthCare System, offering stable job opportunities.
The community provides a small-town atmosphere with access to essential amenities, and its location offers reasonable proximity to larger urban centers. Zanesville’s climate, while experiencing distinct seasons, is generally temperate, with warm summers and cold winters. The city’s demographic makeup, while predominantly White, includes diverse smaller populations, contributing to a varied community.
Disadvantages of Zanesville
Zanesville faces challenges with higher-than-average crime rates, particularly in property crime and violent crime categories, which are above national averages (as reported by FBI crime data). The educational system, while serving the community, shows average proficiency scores in key subjects, with Zanesville High School receiving a C+ grade (as reported by Niche).
The average salary in Zanesville, while providing a reasonable cost of living, may be lower than in more metropolitan areas. The job market, while stable in certain sectors like healthcare, might offer fewer high-paying opportunities compared to larger cities. While the climate is temperate, the winters can be harsh with significant snowfall.