A city with small-town charm between Dayton and Cincinnati
Settled after the American Revolution and heavily influenced by the Shaker community, Lebanon, Ohio's wide streets were built to accommodate six-horse stagecoaches. Today, it's more common to spot pickup trucks driving through Mulberry Plaza or parallel-parked in front of family restaurants on Broadway. "Lebanon is rich in history and is a thriving community with a small-town feel, even though it isn't all that small anymore," says Rebecca Kulker, who grew up in the city. "It has historically been a capital for antique hunters, although in the past several years, mom-and-pop boutiques have taken the lead…" The city, now home to approximately 21,000 people, is situated midway between Dayton and Cincinnati, which has "effectively opened our job opportunities up to two distinctly different labor markets," from corporate jobs at Procter & Gamble to research and manufacturing opportunities at the Wright-Patterson Air Force Base. Lebanon is a blend of sprawling American suburbia and historic small-town charm on the outskirts of larger urban hubs.
Residents can walk the streets of Downtown Lebanon with a friend.
Between Dayton and Cincinnati is the historic town of Lebanon, Ohio.
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Newly constructed Colonials and historic Victorians
Housing options span decades and styles in Lebanon. There are mid-century brick homes, Victorians constructed in the late 1800s and townhouses built less than five years ago. The city's oldest properties often sit closer to Downtown, whereas newer subdivisions farther from Main Street boast New Traditionals with spacious front yards and multi-car garages. Price points can fall anywhere between the low $200,000s for a townhouse and reach upwards of $500,000 for a five-bedroom single-family home. Sale prices in Lebanon have increased more than 10% over the last year, and average home values hover around $340,000. "Homebuyers here are very diverse," says Barbie Woehrmyer, a Realtor with the Woehrmyer team at Coldwell Banker Realty, adding, "Lebanon is a wonderful choice for first-time buyers due to the affordable areas in town, while others move here for the convenient commutes into Cincinnati and Dayton."
This Victorian home displays some of the amazing, elegant homes in Lebanon.
A well crafted Craftsman home in Lebanon.
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Shopping at Watson Crossing and Historic Downtown Lebanon
It's common for Lebanon residents to shop at Watson Crossing off U.S. Route 42, which offers a variety of department stores and retailers like Dollar Tree, Goodwill and Cato Fashions. Groceries and other everyday essentials are available at nearby stores like Walmart, Kroger and Black Barn, where residents can buy produce grown by local farmers. Historic Downtown Lebanon, where brick storefronts date back over 100 years, is home to popular restaurants like The Village Parlor, which serves sundaes and sandwiches and has been used as a filming location for Hollywood movies like "Milk Money." Nearby, The Golden Lamb Restaurant & Hotel, Ohio's oldest operating business, has served 12 U.S. presidents since it first opened its doors in 1803. "It usually serves as the backdrop when presidential candidates come to town," says Kolker, who also recommends The Breakfast Club. "People literally stand in the parking lot for an hour to get in on the weekends," she says.
Lebanon has many walkable retails and restaurants within the city,
The Golden Lamb Restaurant & Hotel has welcomed U.S. Presidents since the 1800s to Lebanon.
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The Lebanon City School District and private options
The Lebanon City School District, which earns an overall B-plus grade from Niche, is comprised of five public schools. There's Bowman Primary for kindergarteners through second graders, Donovan Elementary for grades three and four, Berry Intermediate for grades five and six and Lebanon Junior High for seventh and eighth graders. High schoolers can attend Lebanon High, the alma mater of famed actor Woody Harrelson. While others enroll in the city's private institutions like the Saint Francis de Sales School and the Lebanon Christian School. Located on South Broadway Street Downtown, The Lebanon Public Library offers ACT Prep Classes and hosts lectures on a variety of topics.
Bowman Primary School in Lebanon
Lebanon High School moved into its current building in 2004.
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Mini parks and walking trails
There are more than 10 public parks in Lebanon, from landscaped Downtown's mini-parks to the rugged walking trails in Turtle Creek Nature Preserve. Harmon Park, which features vibrant murals, a fenced-in tennis court and picnic tables for family lunches, is the city's oldest. Spanning nearly 100 acres, Miller Ecological Park is known for its sledding hill—nicknamed "Miller Mountain"—and butterfly garden. Soccer teams practice at the Lebanon Sports Complex, and Colonial Park is separated into four quadrants, which feature playgrounds, basketball courts and shaded trails. There are also indoor recreation opportunities at the Countryside YMCA.
Butterfly garden at Miller Ecological Park in Lebanon
Play a match of tennis with a friend at Harmon Park in Lebanon.
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Local history at the Harmon Museum and annual festivals
Visitors to the Harmon Museum on South Broadway can learn about Lebanon's History from galleries of Indigenous and Shaker artifacts to exhibits honoring former resident Neil Armstrong. Kings Island Amusement Park, which features 15 rollercoasters and a splash park, is about 8 miles away, and residents can also look forward to the Warren County Fair each July. Kolker also highlights attractions like the Lebanon Mason Monroe Railroad, a vintage train that offers themed rides throughout the year, particularly during the holiday seasons. Longstanding traditions in Lebanon include Applefest in September, the Christmas Horse Parade in December and the Blues Festival in August.
You can learn about Lebanon history year-round at the Harmon Museum.
Check out themed rides at the Lebanon Mason Monroe Railroad.
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The Lebanon Loop and interstate access
Other than Warren County Transit's Lebanon Loop, which stops at popular locations like Colony Square and Harmon Park, public transit within the city is limited. Those who call ahead can schedule rides on weekdays, but most residents rely on their own vehicles. Interstate 71 connects Lebanon to Cincinnati, about 31 miles away, and Interstate 75 offers passage to Dayton, approximately 27 miles from Downtown. U.S. Route 42 connects the city to neighboring communities like Mason. The Dayton International Airport is 40 miles from Lebanon, offering direct flights to a dozen locations. Cincinnati- Northern Kentucky International Airport has more nonstop options about 45 miles southwest. Medical care is accessible at Bethesda Medical Center.
Low crime rates in Lebanon
Crime ratings in Lebanon are lower than Ohio and national averages. There’s a 1 in 671 chance of falling victim to a violent crime in Lebanon and a 1 in 71 chance of experiencing property crimes like motor vehicle theft and burglary. There are two fire stations in Lebanon, the largest located next to the Warren County Fairgrounds, and the Lebanon City Police Department is comprised of 31 sworn officers.
Written By
Sara Caskey
Photography Contributed By
Nick Janning
Video By
Patrick Johnson
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
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GreatSchools:
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On average, homes in Lebanon, OH sell after 42 days on the market compared to the national average of 51 days. The median sale price for homes in Lebanon, OH over the last 12 months is $389,900, down 1% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Experience timeless sophistication in this Fischer Homes Avery Floorplan;an artfully crafted 5-bedroom, 3-bathroom home built in 2024. At 2,848 square feet, located in the sought-after Shaker Run Golf Community of Lebanon, Ohio, this residence seamlessly blends thoughtful function with elevated style. The main floor offers a private bedroom and full bath, along with a pocket office designed for
Welcome to 5101 Greenview Lane, an upgraded 4 bed, 2.5 bath home in the highly desirable Shaker Run Golf Course community! This bright, open floor plan features an upgraded kitchen with white cabinetry, a stunning backsplash, and a cozy gas fireplace with stone surround. Enjoy the upgraded sunroom, perfect for relaxing or entertaining. The spacious primary suite offers tray ceilings, a soaking
Welcome to your dream home! This exquisite 4700+ sq ft. finished space offers a perfect blend of luxury and comfort, nestled on nearly one acre and a peaceful cul-de-sac. Enjoy the grandeur of high ceilings and retreat to the expansive primary suite that promises ample space for relaxation. The heart of the home boasts a gourmet kitchen overlooking the open family room. Walkout lower level is
Experience timeless sophistication in this Fischer Homes Avery Floorplan;an artfully crafted 5-bedroom, 3-bathroom home built in 2024. At 2,848 square feet, located in the sought-after Shaker Run Golf Community of Lebanon, Ohio, this residence seamlessly blends thoughtful function with elevated style. The main floor offers a private bedroom and full bath, along with a pocket office designed for
Welcome to this beautiful 1636 Sq Ft Condo with 2-bedrooms & lower-level study (bonus room) This 1 offers comfort, style, & convenience! Step inside to this meticulous home with brand new carpet, new light fixtures, neutral paint, & an open floorplan perfect for relaxing or entertaining. The kitchen shines with granite countertops, lots of storage & flows seamlessly into the spacious living area.
Welcome to 5101 Greenview Lane, an upgraded 4 bed, 2.5 bath home in the highly desirable Shaker Run Golf Course community! This bright, open floor plan features an upgraded kitchen with white cabinetry, a stunning backsplash, and a cozy gas fireplace with stone surround. Enjoy the upgraded sunroom, perfect for relaxing or entertaining. The spacious primary suite offers tray ceilings, a soaking
You will Live Life Better at Deerfield Crossing. Our apartments offers a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. These stylish apartments are surrounded by six acres of beautiful rolling hills, which can be enjoyed from the privacy of your very own private balcony or patio. All apartment homes feature two bedrooms, with larger ones also boasting a den. Our homes are
Come and make this lovely updated multi-family in a historic building your new home! Located in a prime location just 2 blocks from all that beautiful downtown Lebanon has to offer. This building features three- 2/1 units, all freshly painted and updated with new flooring and fixtures. Kitchen features white wood cabinets, stainless appliances including dishwashers and sleek granite countertops.
Arbors of Lebanon: Welcome to Lebanon's newest and most sophisticated apartment community! Built of quality construction and nestled in a cozy, park-like setting, Arbors of Lebanon is comfortably secluded, yet conveniently located for your every need. Our management team takes pride in our community, as well as our residents. It is our pleasure to offer you the utmost comfort and happiness...
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