Living in Hebron, OH, Offers Affordable Housing, Job Opportunities and Small-Town Charm
Nestled just 30 miles east of Columbus in Licking County, Ohio, Hebron boasts small-town charm with affordable housing options, a rich, community-oriented atmosphere and a low cost of living. Companies open their doors here to take advantage of competitive real estate and quick access to major transportation networks. Three Hebron residents (two of whom are small business owners) share their perspectives on life in this town and what makes it such an ideal place to call home.
Historic Crossroads of Ohio
Incorporated in 1835, Hebron was a hub of commercial activity, thanks to its strategic location at the confluence of the Ohio and Erie Canal. The town pivoted after the construction of the National Road (U.S. Route 40) and employers again took advantage of Hebron’s prime logistics location. Today, Interstate 70, which runs parallel to the National Road, remains an important commercial passage.
“Hebron is located within one of the largest employment corridors in Licking County, which creates tremendous opportunities for career growth right here,” says Brittany Misner, economic and community development director for the Village of Hebron. “Hebron is fortunate to have a strong and diverse business community. We’re home to several major employers such as THK Manufacturing, Hendrickson and Lear. Many of these companies are deeply invested in their workforce, providing training, upskilling programs and opportunities for advancement from within.”
It’s not just large companies employing local residents; the town also has a thriving small-business community.
When Joshua Powell returned to Ohio, he didn’t anticipate taking over the family-owned business where he had taken his first job, but he just couldn’t pass up the opportunity to invest – and neither could the former owners.
He says Mark and Glenna Jones didn’t want to turn over the legacy of their restaurant (which had been in operation since 1934) to prospects not interested in developing the business. The Jones family made the case to Powell and his husband, Joseph Vericella, and they became the new owners of Clay’s Cafe.
The Joneses helped the new owners hit the ground running.
“When we took it over, we knew how to do everything – cooking, payroll, taxes, all the details of running the business,” Powell says. “I will not forget what Glenna did for us. She had faith in us but made sure we were successful.”
“Hebron is growing and becoming greater by the day,” says Jeff Grow, owner of Coffee Shack Coffee Roasters & Cafe. “I have friends opening businesses in the area and small businesses are developing alongside large corporations.”
Small City, Big Opportunities
“Boomerang” residents like Powell, who grew up in Hebron and returned after a hiatus, say they notice how much their community has grown. “More than 1,000 new homes are being built in the area. We’re massively growing and they want new businesses to come here,” Powell says.
Misner shares an insider perspective: “Currently, we have several new housing projects under construction that offer a variety of options – including single-family homes, multifamily units, senior apartments and condos. This mix of housing types helps ensure that residents at every stage of life can find a home that fits their needs in Hebron.”
According to Zillow, the average home value in Hebron is $318,400.
“Right now is the perfect time to move to a place like Hebron,” says Powell, who is also a Realtor.
“If you’re looking to buy, your investment is going to grow. Home values are on the rise. We have a great school district and it’s a community-oriented place. You’ll feel at home when you’re in Hebron.”
With house prices below the national average, there’s plenty left in the budget for entertainment and activities. Fortunately, Hebron has several options for fun.
Evans Park offers basketball courts, youth sports facilities, disc golf, playgrounds and a walking path for families and dog lovers.
Another free outdoor amenity is Licking Park District’s 3-mile Ohio Canal Greenway Trail. “It’s easy to stay active and enjoy the outdoors here in Hebron,” Misner says.
Grow says the town has stepped up its calendar of programmed entertainment, as well.
“The annual Pie Festival is one event that many look forward to,” he says. “The city has been booking concerts during summers and this year we hosted our first-ever monthly farmers market.”
“Our village is on the move, and we’re working hard to bring new amenities and opportunities to our residents, from attracting new businesses and investing in our parks to hosting community programs,” Misner says. “I truly couldn’t imagine living anywhere else. I love raising my family in Hebron.”
Get to Know Licking County
Want to learn more about living and working in Licking County, OH? Check out the latest edition of Livability Licking County, Ohio.