County Crime & Safety

Morrow County, OH, maintains a relatively low crime rate compared to national averages. In 2022, the county reported approximately 135 total crimes, including 20 violent crimes and 115 property crimes. The violent crime rate stands at 1.3 per 1,000 residents, while the property crime rate is about 7.4 per 1,000 residents. Local law enforcement actively encourages community involvement and regular reporting, contributing to a sense of safety. Overall, Morrow County’s proactive policing and community outreach have kept crime rates below state and national levels.

Demographics

As of the 2020 Census, Morrow County, Ohio, had a population of 34,950. The median age was 41.6 years, with 23.4% under 18 and 17.2% aged 65 or older. The gender distribution was approximately 49.6% male and 50.4% female. Racially, the county was 96.9% White, 0.5% Black or African American, 0.3% Asian, 0.2% Native American, and 2.2% Hispanic or Latino of any race.

Education, Employment and Housing

Morrow County, OH, operates around seven public schools, including four high schools. Approximately 89% of adults have a high school diploma, but only about 13% hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. Schools generally score near the Ohio average on state assessments; for example, the 2023 graduation rate was roughly 93%. Adult education and vocational programs are available through institutions like Tri-Rivers Career Center. School safety measures include security cameras and resource officers. Programs such as Advanced Placement and career-technical education are offered, enhancing student opportunities despite modest local enrollment numbers.

As of 2022, Morrow County, OH had an employment rate of approximately 58%. The largest industries are manufacturing (18%), health care and social assistance (16%), and retail trade (13%). Most common occupations include production (12%), office/administrative support (11%), and sales (10%). About 76% of residents commute outside the county for work, with Columbus being a major employment destination. The average commute time is 31 minutes.

Morrow County, OH, has a homeownership rate of about 78%, with median home values around $195,000 as of 2023 and median rents near $900 monthly. Recent years have seen property values rise roughly 8% annually. Housing consists mostly of single-family homes, with rural neighborhoods like Mount Gilead and Cardington being popular. Property tax rates average 1.18% of assessed value, translating to an average annual property tax payment of about $2,300. Apartment rentals and multi-family housing are limited, with most residents opting for owner-occupied dwellings amid a stable, predominantly rural residential market.

Elections

Morrow County, OH had 27,569 residents per the 2020 Census, with about 19,000 registered voters as of 2024. Voters participate in primary, general, and special elections, with results in 2020 showing 72% support for Republican candidates. There are 15 polling locations across 16 precincts, overseen by the Morrow County Board of Elections. Issues on recent ballots included school levies and township improvements. The county’s major parties are Republican and Democrat, with Republicans holding most local offices. Voter turnout typically ranges from 55% to 75% in presidential elections. Online and in-person registration are available.