Move from Dallas, TX to Columbus, OH
Certainly, there are many reasons why someone who values family orientation might choose to move from Dallas, Texas to Columbus, Ohio. Here are a few:
Family-friendly activities:
Columbus is known for its family-friendly atmosphere and abundance of activities for all ages. There are numerous parks, museums, and family-friendly attractions to explore, such as the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, Franklin Park Conservatory, and the COSI science museum.
Columbus, Ohio has a wealth of family-friendly activities that make it an ideal location for those who prioritize family-oriented experiences. Here are some of the top family-friendly activities in Columbus:
- Columbus Zoo and Aquarium: The Columbus Zoo and Aquarium is consistently ranked as one of the top zoos in the country. It has over 10,000 animals from over 600 species, including giraffes, lions, and gorillas. The zoo offers a variety of experiences, including animal encounters, rides, and shows, making it a great place for families to spend a day.
- Franklin Park Conservatory: The Franklin Park Conservatory is a beautiful botanical garden and conservatory that offers year-round exhibits and events. It features indoor and outdoor gardens, including a butterfly habitat, a bonsai garden, and a seasonal garden. The conservatory also offers classes and workshops for all ages.
- COSI: COSI, the Center of Science and Industry, is a hands-on science museum that is perfect for families with children of all ages. It features interactive exhibits on topics ranging from space exploration to electricity. COSI also offers special events and shows throughout the year.
- Ohio History Center: The Ohio History Center is a museum that explores the history of Ohio and its people. It features exhibits on topics such as the Civil War, Ohio’s role in space exploration, and the history of Ohio’s native people. The museum also offers educational programs and events for families.
- Parks: Columbus has over 200 parks and green spaces, offering plenty of opportunities for outdoor recreation. Some of the most popular parks include Schiller Park, Goodale Park, and Whetstone Park. The parks offer everything from playgrounds and picnic areas to hiking trails and sports fields.
- Festivals and events: Columbus hosts a variety of family-friendly festivals and events throughout the year, including the Columbus Arts Festival, the Ohio State Fair, and the Columbus Children’s Festival. These events offer opportunities for families to explore the city’s culture, art, and food while enjoying live music, entertainment, and activities.
In summary, Columbus has a diverse range of family-friendly activities, from world-class zoos and museums to parks and festivals, that make it an excellent location for families seeking fun, educational, and memorable experiences.
Affordable living:
Columbus is one of the most affordable cities in the United States, which is especially important for families looking to save money. Housing costs are relatively low, and the cost of living overall is much lower than in many other major cities.
Columbus, Ohio is widely considered one of the most affordable major cities in the United States. Here are some of the factors that contribute to its affordable living:
- Housing costs: The cost of housing in Columbus is lower than the national average. According to Zillow, the median home value in Columbus is around $188,000, which is significantly less than other major cities such as New York or San Francisco.
- Low taxes: Ohio has a lower overall tax burden compared to many other states. This includes state income tax, sales tax, and property taxes. Ohio’s property tax rate is also lower than the national average.
- Cost of living: The cost of living in Columbus is lower than other major cities, including Dallas, Texas. According to Numbeo, a cost of living database, Columbus is around 25% cheaper than Dallas in terms of overall cost of living.
- Public transportation: The Central Ohio Transit Authority (COTA) provides public transportation services throughout Columbus, making it easy and affordable for residents to get around the city without owning a car. COTA offers various bus routes and frequent service to downtown and popular neighborhoods.
- Affordable entertainment: Columbus has a variety of affordable entertainment options, such as parks and free events, that allow residents to enjoy the city without breaking the bank. Many of the city’s museums and cultural institutions also offer free or discounted admission on certain days.
- Job market: As mentioned earlier, Columbus has a strong and diverse job market, which allows residents to find good jobs with stable incomes. This can make it easier for families to afford the cost of living and save for the future.
Overall, Columbus’s affordable living is a significant draw for families who are looking for a city with a lower cost of living compared to other major cities while still offering access to a range of amenities and job opportunities.
Education:
Columbus is home to several excellent school districts, including Upper Arlington, Dublin, and Worthington. The city is also home to The Ohio State University, which offers many educational opportunities for both children and adults.
Columbus, Ohio is home to a number of excellent educational institutions, from top-ranked universities to highly-regarded K-12 schools. Here are some of the key factors that contribute to the city’s strong education system:
- Higher education: Columbus is home to several highly-ranked universities, including Ohio State University, which is one of the largest universities in the country. The city also has several other universities, such as Capital University and Franklin University, that offer a range of undergraduate and graduate programs.
- K-12 schools: Columbus has several highly-regarded public and private K-12 schools. The Columbus City Schools district, which serves more than 50,000 students, has recently implemented a range of innovative programs to improve student outcomes, such as personalized learning plans and career academies. There are also a number of high-performing charter schools in the area, such as Columbus Collegiate Academy and the Graham Expeditionary Middle School.
- Early childhood education: Columbus has a strong focus on early childhood education, with a range of programs and initiatives designed to ensure that children are ready to learn when they enter kindergarten. Programs such as Early Start Columbus and the Head Start program provide access to high-quality early childhood education for low-income families.
- Community colleges: Columbus has several community colleges that provide affordable and accessible pathways to higher education. Columbus State Community College offers a range of certificate and degree programs, as well as partnerships with universities that allow students to transfer credits.
- Career and technical education: Columbus has a range of programs that provide hands-on training and education in fields such as healthcare, manufacturing, and technology. The Columbus City Schools Career and Technical Education program offers a range of programs that prepare students for careers in high-growth industries.
Overall, Columbus’s strong education system provides a range of opportunities for students of all ages and backgrounds to learn and grow. From highly-ranked universities to innovative K-12 programs, the city has a lot to offer families who value education and want to ensure that their children have access to the best possible opportunities.
Community:
Columbus is a welcoming and diverse city with a strong sense of community. Whether you’re looking to get involved with a local church, volunteer organization, or community event, there are many opportunities to meet new people and become part of a supportive network.
Columbus, Ohio is known for its strong sense of community, which is reflected in the city’s diverse neighborhoods, active community organizations, and thriving local businesses. Here are some of the key factors that contribute to Columbus’s vibrant community:
- Diverse neighborhoods: Columbus is home to a range of diverse neighborhoods, each with its own character and culture. From the historic German Village to the trendy Short North Arts District, there is a neighborhood to suit every taste and lifestyle. Many neighborhoods also have active community organizations and events, such as block parties and festivals, that bring residents together.
- Strong community organizations: Columbus has a range of community organizations that work to support and strengthen the city’s neighborhoods. Organizations such as the Columbus Foundation and the United Way of Central Ohio provide funding and support for a range of community initiatives, while neighborhood associations and block watches work to connect residents and address local issues.
- Thriving local businesses: Columbus has a strong entrepreneurial spirit, with a range of local businesses and startups that contribute to the city’s economy and culture. From small cafes and boutiques to tech startups and creative agencies, there is a thriving local business scene that provides opportunities for residents to connect and support one another.
- Active arts and cultural scene: Columbus has a vibrant arts and cultural scene, with a range of museums, theaters, galleries, and festivals that showcase the city’s diversity and creativity. Events such as the Columbus Arts Festival and the Columbus International Film and Animation Festival bring residents together to celebrate the city’s cultural richness.
- Volunteer opportunities: Columbus has a strong tradition of volunteerism, with many residents dedicating their time and energy to support community organizations and initiatives. Organizations such as the Columbus Volunteer Network and HandsOn Central Ohio provide opportunities for residents to get involved and make a difference in their community.
Overall, Columbus’s strong sense of community provides a welcoming and supportive environment for residents. With diverse neighborhoods, active community organizations, and a thriving local business and arts scene, there are countless opportunities for residents to connect, engage, and contribute to the city’s vibrant culture.
Access to nature:
While Dallas has some great outdoor spaces, Columbus is known for its abundance of parks, nature reserves, and hiking trails. Families who enjoy spending time in nature will love the opportunities to explore the outdoors in and around Columbus.
Columbus, Ohio is a city that is surrounded by natural beauty, with plenty of opportunities for residents to enjoy the great outdoors. Here are some of the key factors that contribute to Columbus’s easy access to nature:
- Parks and green spaces: Columbus has an extensive network of parks and green spaces, with over 400 parks and 120 miles of multi-use trails. Some of the most popular parks in Columbus include the Scioto Mile, which is a 175-acre park along the Scioto River that features a stunning fountain, a concert pavilion, and a children’s playground, and Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens, which features a range of exotic plants and flowers, as well as art installations and educational exhibits.
- Rivers and waterways: Columbus is surrounded by a network of rivers and waterways, including the Scioto and Olentangy Rivers, that provide opportunities for boating, fishing, and other water-based activities. Residents can also take advantage of kayaking and canoeing opportunities on the Alum Creek Reservoir and Hoover Reservoir.
- Hiking and camping: Columbus is located near several state parks and forests, including Hocking Hills State Park and Mohican State Park, which offer miles of hiking trails, camping facilities, and breathtaking views of Ohio’s natural beauty. These parks are popular destinations for weekend getaways and outdoor adventures.
- Biking: Columbus is a bike-friendly city, with miles of dedicated bike lanes and trails. The Ohio to Erie Trail, a 326-mile trail that runs from Cincinnati to Cleveland, passes through Columbus and provides a scenic route for cyclists to explore the state.
- Wildlife: Columbus is home to a range of wildlife, including deer, foxes, and various species of birds. Residents can often spot wildlife in local parks and green spaces, and there are also several wildlife reserves and sanctuaries within driving distance of the city.
Overall, Columbus’s easy access to nature provides a wealth of opportunities for residents to get outside, explore, and enjoy the natural beauty of Ohio. Whether hiking, camping, boating, or simply strolling through a local park, there are countless ways to connect with nature in and around Columbus.
Overall, Columbus is a great place to raise a family thanks to its family-friendly atmosphere, affordable living, excellent education options, strong sense of community, growing job market, and abundance of outdoor activities.
