If you’re looking to put down roots in a vibrant and exciting location, the charming little suburban city of New Albany, Ohio is for you.
Named the No. 1 Suburb in America by Business Insider in 2015, this suburban oasis takes great pride in providing its residents with a high quality of life, thanks to its prime location in the Columbus metropolitan area, family-friendly environment, stellar public school ratings, and sizable median household income.
Thinking of making New Albany your new home? Here’s what you need to know about homes for sale in New Albany, Ohio as well as everything that makes this suburban community one of the best in the area.
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New Albany, OH: An Overview
Nestled in the northeastern corner of Franklin County, New Albany is quickly becoming one of Ohio’s most coveted addresses. Once a sleepy farming village, the city has blossomed into a thriving community—one that seamlessly blends small-town charm with modern amenities.
Founded in 1837 by Noble Landon and William Yantis, New Albany underwent a period of rapid transformation in the 1990s, partly due to the expansion of businessman Lex Wexner’s clothing empire. Wexner, the force behind the multi-billion-dollar Limited Brands, chose New Albany as the site for his sprawling mansion – the second-largest in Central Ohio. This development, coupled with new freeways providing easy access, sparked a boom in both population and prosperity.
A place where nature meets urban convenience
Today, New Albany, Ohio stands as a testament to thoughtful urban planning and community-centric development. Nature enthusiasts revel in the city’s abundant green spaces and waterways, which offer a refreshing escape from the urban grind. Whether you’re in the mood for a casual stroll or a competitive game, New Albany’s outdoor amenities have you covered.
It’s not just the scenic setting that’s drawing people to New Albany, however. The city boasts a robust local economy, a healthy job market, and a thriving retail sector. These factors, combined with its proximity to Columbus, Ohio (a quick 20-minute drive away) make New Albany an attractive option for those seeking a balance between small-town living and big-city opportunities.
Downtown New Albany is a hub of activity, offering a vibrant shopping and dining scene that rivals much larger cities. From cozy cafes to upscale boutiques, there’s something to satisfy every taste and budget.
Education is another feather in New Albany’s cap. Schools here are administered by the highly ranked New Albany-Plain Local School District, and consistently rank high in academic performance, making it a top choice for families prioritizing their children’s education.
Homes for Sale in New Albany, Ohio
New Albany offers a wide range of residential real estate options to prospective buyers. Single-family homes are the most common, with the majority of homes for sale in New Albany, Ohio belonging to this category. These homes typically have 2,000 square feet of living space, with an average of 4 bedrooms and 3 bathrooms. Given the large lot sizes, single-family homes in New Albany also have spacious garages and ample outdoor living areas.
Aside from single-family homes, New Albany also has an abundance of townhomes. Popular among young professionals and retirees, townhomes in New Albany typically have a floor area of 1,500 to 2,000 square feet, which is quite generous for this property type. These properties usually have an average of 3 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms, putting them on par with single-family homes in the area in terms of living space
New Albany also has several condominiums and apartments that cater to various lifestyles. Many developments are located near the town’s vibrant center, offering easy access to shopping, dining, and outdoor recreational spaces.
What are New Albany, OH’s most common architectural styles?
New Albany features diverse architectural styles reflecting its history and modern tastes.
The dominant Georgian Revival style, championed by early developers, is characterized by symmetrical facades and classic columns. Colonial Revival homes, popular since the mid-20th century, typically have symmetrical designs with central doors and wood or brick siding. Craftsman-style houses are common in New Albany and nearby suburbs and are known for natural materials and handcrafted details. Tudor Revival homes add medieval charm to older neighborhoods with their distinctive roofs and half-timbering. Modern construction increasingly incorporates contemporary styles, featuring clean lines, large windows, and sustainable design elements, appealing to younger residents.
Notable neighborhoods and real estate developments in New Albany, OH
A picturesque suburb that has become synonymous with upscale living and community-focused design, New Albany offers a diverse array of neighborhoods that cater to various lifestyles and preferences.
Here’s a look at several top-rated neighborhoods in the area:
- Windsor New Albany is located north of downtown, bordering U.S. Route 62. It offers excellent connectivity to Columbus and other parts of Franklin County. The community features luxurious four-bedroom properties spanning over 3,000 square feet. Windsor provides a perfect blend of luxury and value, making it one of the most desirable communities in New Albany.
- The Hampsted Communities comprise three distinct neighborhoods connected by an intricate network of walking paths, epitomizing New Albany’s community-centric design. These communities offer easy access to schools, shopping, dining, and recreational facilities.
- Hampsted Village, developed in 1995, set the standard for spacious and elegant living in the area. Homes in this neighborhood range from 2,000 to 3,500 square feet. The attention to detail is evident in every home, featuring gourmet kitchens with granite countertops, hardwood floors, and extensive moldings.
- Hampsted Green, also known as The Green at Hampsted Village, offers a slightly more modest yet equally charming living experience. Developed in the late 1990s and early 2000s, this neighborhood consists of 170 homes ranging from 1,800 to 3,000 square feet. These properties boast custom-built cabinetry, gourmet kitchens with islands, and spacious fenced-in backyards.
- Hampsted Heath is the crown jewel of the Hampsted Communities. This exclusive enclave features just 27 single-family homes with larger lots and more spacious interiors, ranging from 3,000 to 4,500 square feet. Many homes in this community are encircled by densely wooded preserves and streams, making it a nature lover’s dream.
- The New Albany Country Club is a collection of 17 distinct neighborhoods, offering a wide range of luxury homes. This master-planned community caters to the most discerning homebuyers, providing the pinnacle of luxury living in New Albany.
- The Reserve offers custom homes that showcase expert craftsmanship with their stone and stucco exteriors, bringing a touch of European sophistication to New Albany. These state-of-the-art homes boast living areas of up to 4,500 square feet. The community’s proximity to a top-notch country club adds an extra layer of exclusivity and convenience.
- Wiveliscombe presents the ultimate in luxury and privacy. This exclusive community of just 30 custom homes sits right off the New Albany Country Club golf course. With homes ranging from 4,000 to 6,000 square feet, Wiveliscombe represents the pinnacle of New Albany living. These Georgian-style homes, mostly built in the 2010s, feature exquisite details like Amish cabinets, rich wood interiors, and soaring 11-foot ceilings.
What is it like to live in New Albany, Ohio?
One of the best places to live in the Buckeye State, New Albany offers a lifestyle that combines suburban tranquility with easy access to urban amenities, making it perfect for those seeking a refined yet friendly environment.
If you’re considering making New Albany your new home, here’s an in-depth look at what you can expect.
Community Vibe
New Albany’s community spirit is one of its most defining characteristics. Despite its reputation for affluence, the town exudes a warm and welcoming atmosphere that residents cherish. This unique blend of sophistication and friendliness is evident in the numerous community events held throughout the year, which help foster a strong sense of belonging and provide ample opportunities for neighbors to connect.
Cost of Living
It’s no secret that New Albany’s idyllic lifestyle comes with a significant price tag. The cost of living in New Albany is considerably higher than the national average, primarily due to its housing costs. Many properties in the area fall within the million-dollar range, reflecting the town’s desirability and high-end amenities.
However, residents often justify this premium by citing the town’s exceptional amenities, safety record, and world-class educational system. While housing costs are high, other living expenses such as groceries, utilities, and healthcare are more in line with state averages. This balance allows residents to enjoy a luxurious lifestyle without excessive costs in every aspect of daily life.
Schools
Education is a top priority in New Albany, and the results speak for themselves. The New Albany-Plain Local School District consistently ranks among the best in Ohio, boasting high test scores, diverse extracurricular offerings, and impressive college placement rates.
According to Niche.com, New Albany High School ranks in the top 10 public high schools in Ohio, with a 96% graduation rate and an average SAT score of 1280. The district’s commitment to excellence extends beyond academics, with state-of-the-art facilities and a strong emphasis on arts and athletics.
For those pursuing higher education, Ohio State University is a mere 20-minute commute away, posing a significant advantage for college-aged students and adults seeking continuing education opportunities.
Job Opportunities
Far from its beginnings as a farming village, New Albany has become a major player in Ohio’s overall economy. The city’s 4,000-acre New Albany International Business Park, for instance, has attracted major corporations and created thousands of jobs in various sectors. Tech giants like Facebook, Google, and Amazon have established significant presences in the area, offering high-paying jobs in the technology sector. Additionally, healthcare company Amgen and clothing retailer Abercrombie & Fitch have their corporate headquarters in New Albany, further diversifying the job market.
The city’s proximity to Columbus provides access to an even broader range of employment opportunities across various industries. This combination of local job growth and easy access to a major metropolitan job market makes New Albany an attractive option for professionals at all career stages.
Getting Around
Like many suburbs, New Albany is primarily car-dependent. However, the town has made significant efforts to promote alternative transportation methods. New Albany boasts an extensive network of leisure trails, with over 55 miles of paths connecting neighborhoods, schools, and the town center. This network makes walking and biking viable options for short trips and recreation.
For longer journeys, New Albany’s strategic location provides easy access to major highways. State Route 161 runs through the town, offering a direct route to downtown Columbus in about 20 minutes. This accessibility makes commuting to Columbus or other nearby cities relatively stress-free.
While public transportation within New Albany is limited, the Central Ohio Transit Authority (COTA) does provide some bus service connecting New Albany to the greater Columbus area, offering an alternative for those who prefer not to drive.
Shopping and Dining
New Albany offers a diverse array of shopping and dining experiences, catering to various tastes and preferences. The heart of the town’s retail scene is Market Square, a charming district that perfectly embodies New Albany’s blend of sophistication and community spirit.
In Market Square, you’ll find a curated selection of local shops like Hayley Gallery which showcases works from local and regional artists, and Truluck Boutique a store with a laid-back west coast vibe offering a well-curated selection of women’s clothing and accessories.
Many New Albany residents also frequent the nearby Easton Town Center, one of the premier shopping destinations in the Columbus area. This open-air complex features over 240 best-in-class retailers and restaurants, including luxury brands like Louis Vuitton and Tiffany & Co.
Food enthusiasts will appreciate the range of culinary options available in New Albany. From casual cafes like The Eagle’s Villa Pizza to fine dining establishments such as The New Albany Country Club’s Signature Restaurant, there’s something to satisfy every palate. The Rusty Bucket Restaurant and Tavern, which has several locations in nearby Columbus, is another favorite, treating guests to a menu filled with enticing American classics.
Arts and Culture
While New Albany itself is relatively small, its proximity to Columbus means residents are never far from world-class attractions and cultural experiences. Within New Albany, the Jeanne B. McCoy Community Center for the Arts serves as a cultural hub, hosting various performances, exhibitions, and educational programs throughout the year.
Music lovers can enjoy performances by the New Albany Symphony Orchestra, which offers a diverse program of classical and contemporary works. The orchestra also runs educational initiatives, including a youth orchestra program, further enriching the town’s cultural landscape.
More cultural experiences are available a short drive away in the vibrant city of Columbus. The Short North Arts District, known for its galleries, boutiques, and restaurants, offers a taste of urban sophistication. Museums like the Columbus Museum of Art and the Center of Science and Industry (COSI) provide enriching experiences for all ages.
Sports and Outdoor Recreation
New Albany places a strong emphasis on active living and outdoor recreation. The town boasts over 600 acres of green space and public parks, providing ample opportunities for residents to stay fit and enjoy nature.
Wexner Community Park is a central hub for outdoor activities and features sports fields, walking trails, and a playground. Thompson Park offers additional recreational facilities, including tennis courts and a splash pad for summer fun. Bevelhymer Park is another popular spot, with its multipurpose fields and scenic walking paths.
Golf enthusiasts will appreciate the New Albany Country Club, which is home to a 27-hole Jack Nicklaus-designed championship golf course. The club also features five pools, a 30,000-square-foot health club, and 18 tennis courts, offering a comprehensive range of recreational activities for members.
For those looking for some fresh air, the town’s extensive network of leisure trails not only serves as a transportation alternative but also provides excellent opportunities for jogging, cycling, and leisurely walks. These trails connect various neighborhoods and parks, allowing residents to explore the town’s natural beauty.
Sports enthusiasts will appreciate the proximity to professional sports teams in Columbus, including the NHL’s Blue Jackets and MLS’s Columbus Crew. The Ohio State University’s athletic programs, particularly the famous Buckeyes football team, are also a major draw for sports fans in the area.
EXPLORE NEW ALBANY, OH REAL ESTATE OPTIONS WITH CONLEY & PARTNERS
With diverse neighborhoods offering a unique blend of charm, amenities, and housing options, finding your dream home in New Albany, Ohio is an exciting and fulfilling process. Let us, Conley & Partners, be your trusted guides in this exciting journey.
With our extensive market knowledge and reputation for highly personalized service, Conley & Partners has established its reputation as one of the top real estate teams in Central Ohio. Repeat business and referrals form the backbone of our team’s growth, a testament to our commitment to high quality service and client satisfaction.
Contact us at 614.595.4344 or send us a message here to start exploring the best homes for sale in New Albany, Ohio today.