County Crime & Safety

Allen County, OH, reports a crime rate of 23.2 per 1,000 residents, below the national average. In 2023, there were approximately 2,500 reported cases, including 220 violent crimes and over 2,200 property crimes. The county seat, Lima, experiences higher incidents, contributing to 70% of violent crime. Law enforcement emphasizes community policing, with improved clearance rates of 35% for violent crimes. Residents are encouraged to report suspicious activities using local tip lines, supporting ongoing safety initiatives.

Education, Employment and Housing

Allen County, OH, boasts over 40 public and private K-12 schools, including 12 high schools, with a student-to-teacher ratio of 16:1. About 18.5% of residents hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. The county houses the Lima City Schools and several vocational, adult education, and technical programs, such as Apollo Career Center. Average school safety scores are in the B range (7/10), and graduation rates exceed 85%. Educational offerings include STEM, Advanced Placement, and special education programs, supporting diverse student needs and adult learners.

As of 2022, Allen County, OH, had an employment rate of approximately 56.5%. Major industries include manufacturing (21.9%), health care and social assistance (18.2%), and retail trade (10.8%). Leading occupation types are production (15.3%) and office/administrative support (12.1%). The median commute time is 18.1 minutes, with about 84% of workers driving alone and 37.5% commuting outside the county. Key employment hubs include Lima, the county seat, notably for healthcare and manufacturing.

Allen County, OH, has a homeownership rate of about 67%, with median home values around $130,000 and median rents near $870 monthly. The housing market has seen moderate appreciation of roughly 4% annually. Housing types range from historic single-family homes to modern apartments, with notable neighborhoods like Lima's Westgate and Elida offering varied options. Property taxes average 1.24% of assessed value. Neighborhoods provide access to schools and parks, appealing to families and retirees. Rental vacancy rates hover near 6%, reflecting balanced demand.

Elections

Allen County, OH, has approximately 68,000 registered voters as of 2024. It holds primary, general, and special elections, covering local, state, and national races. In the 2020 presidential election, 68% voted Republican and 30% Democrat. There are 55 polling locations across the county. Recent ballot issues included school levies and infrastructure funding. The Allen County Board of Elections administers elections and is split evenly between Democratic and Republican representatives. Voter turnout in major elections often exceeds 60%. The main parties are Republican and Democrat, with minor independent and third-party activity.

Demographics

As of 2022, Allen County, OH, has a population of approximately 102,000. The median age is around 40 years. Gender distribution is nearly equal, with about 49% male and 51% female residents. Racially, the county is predominantly White (81%), with Black or African American (12%), and smaller groups of Hispanic or Latino (2.9%), and others making up the remainder.