About 50 miles from Akron is the city of Wooster, Ohio (pronounced “wuss-ter”). Wooster is the largest city in Wayne County, and serves as the county seat. Wooster is also categorized as a “micropolitan statistical area,” and ranked as one of the top 10 business-friendly micro cities in North America by fDi magazine in 2013.
Wooster was founded in 1808, and named after American Revolutionary War general David Wooster. Today, Wooster is a tight-knit community, and well known as the dairy capital of Ohio. The city offers residents over 600 acres of parkland, an extensive network of bike trails, and a vibrant historical downtown area. There are lots of retail and dining opportunities, from the Main Street boutiques and eateries to the North End retail district.
Some notable people from Wooster include MLB player Kaiser Wilhelm, X-Factor finalist Josh Krajcik, and animator Bob Peterson.
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Wooster, OH Population & Demographics
The population of Wooster is 26,773. Of those residents, 88.6% are white, 2.1% Hispanic, 3.2% Black or African American, 3.1% Asian, and 3% Mixed or Other races. 60.7% of the residents of Wooster are married, and about 23% of households have school aged children. The median household income in Wooster is $46,384 a year. Though that’s significantly lower than the national average, wages are going up by about 5.55% a year in Wooster. Crime rates in Wooster are 28% higher than the national average. Wooster’s population is 47.6% male and 52.4% female.
Wooster is located in Wayne County, Ohio. Wooster falls within the 44691 zip code, and the area code is 330.
Wooster Cost of Living
So the statistics sound great, but is Wooster affordable? Overall, the cost of living in Wooster is about 14% lower than the national average, and 9% less expensive than the Ohio average. Housing in Wooster is 31% lower than the national average, healthcare is 15% lower, and goods and services are 12% lower! The median sale price for a home in Wooster is $177,500, a number that is only 5% higher than last year. Wooster’s real estate market is somewhat competitive; homes usually sell in less than 5 weeks for around asking price, some with multiple offers. There are lots of great Wooster, OH homes for sale right now! It’s important to note that Wooster property taxes range between $2000-$3000 per year.
Renting is a popular option in Wooster! About 46% of Wooster residents rent their homes. The average monthly rent in Wooster is $684, which is almost 28% lower than the national average.
Wooster, OH Neighborhoods
Wooster is split into many subdivisions and neighborhoods, all with different appeals. The best neighborhoods in Wooster are Ashton Village, The Reserve at Deer Creek, and Downtown. If you’re looking for a new construction, check out Ashton Village. The Reserve at Deer Creek, within the greater Deer Creek neighborhood, is a planned community with large lots that’s convenient to the North End amenities. Of course Downtown is also an option if you want to be near all the action and close to commuting for work.
Wooster, OH Weather
If you’re looking for four distinct seasons, you’ll be happy in Wooster! The weather in Wooster is enjoyable. Summers are warm and somewhat humid, winters are cold and snowy. Mid June through mid September are considered the most pleasant months to visit Wooster. Summer temperatures average at about 72°F, and July is the hottest month with an average high of 83°F. The coldest month in Wooster is January, with an average high in Wooster of 35°F and average low of 18°F. Snow is definitely in your future if you’re relocating to Wooster! The city receives about 33” of snow a year (39” of rain).
Things to Do in Wooster
There’s plenty of fun things to do in Wooster! Enjoy nature in any of the city’s 10 parks with endless trails and beautiful views. If golf is your game, there are plenty of opportunities both in and around Wooster, and if you need access to more, Akron is just a quick drive away! Here are a few of Wooster’s top attractions:
Secrest Arboretum
Head to the Ohio Agricultural Research and Development Center to visit the 115 acre Secrest Arboretum. Here you’ll see and learn about over 2,000 species of trees, including several champion trees. Secrest Arboretum is also home to a special collection of Dawn Redwoods, the only remaining of their species. Don’t forget to check out the Garden of Roses of Legend and Romance, where you’ll see about 500 different kinds of roses. The best part? Secrest Arboretum is free, and great for families!
2122 Williams Rd, Wooster, OH 44691, (330) 263-3761
Oak Hill Park
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Officially dedicated in 2011, Oak Hill Park is a Wooster favorite for outdoor recreation. Residents enjoy 1.7 miles of trails, picnicking pavilion, and beautiful vistas. The park’s paths link to other paths throughout the city, so runners, joggers and bikers can enjoy almost 8 miles of trails in total. In the winter, you’ll see the park dotted with people cross country skiing and sledding.
Donald & Alice Noble Trail, Wooster, OH 44691, 330-263-5203
Additional Things to do in and around Wooster
Wooster also provides for convenient shopping, including Wooster Crossing and Blue Spruce Boutique.
Wooster Restaurants
Wooster is a foodie’s dream! Whether you’re in the mood for a more casual meal or a hearty steak dinner, you won’t be disappointed in these Wooster eateries:
Broken Rocks Cafe & Bakery
If you’re looking for the best fresh baked bread around, head to Broken Rocks Cafe and Bakery. This husband and wife owned Wooster restaurant has been serving happy Wooster customers since 2000. Broken Rocks boasts an eclectic menu, and customers rave about their jambalaya!
123 E Liberty St, Wooster, OH 44691, (330) 263-2949
The City Square Steakhouse
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“Big city dining, small down charm” is what you’ll find at The City Square Steakhouse. Located in the famed Germania Hall, City Square Steakhouse is among the top 100 best steakhouses in the country.
3983 Darrow Rd, Wooster, OH 44224, (330) 262-2489
Jobs in Wooster, OH
The median household income in Wooster is $46,384 a year, and which is increasing at a rate of about 5.5% annually. The most common occupations in Wooster are office and administrative support, production, and education instruction and library positions. As far as the most common industries, the majority of Wooster residents work in manufacturing, educational services, and healthcare and social assistance. The unemployment rate in Wooster is 2.7%, almost 2 points lower than the national average.
The average commute time in Wooster is only 16.5 minutes, which is a commuter’s dream! Most Wooster commuters (77.1%) choose to drive alone to work, so it’s no surprise that most Wooster residents own 2 cars. Will you be commuting to Akron for work? Click here for directions from Wooster, OH, to Akron, OH which is 35 miles.
Looking for a job in Wooster? There are plenty of opportunities! Check out current openings in Wooster by clicking here. The City of Wooster is hiring too! If you’re interested in working for Wooster, click here to view current openings.
Schools in Wooster, OH
If you’ll be relocating to Wooster with school-aged children, you will have 40 schools to choose from in Wooster. The city is served by 7 Wooster City School District schools, and 5 Triway Local School District schools. Triway Junior High School is the best rated school in the Wooster area, followed by Franklin Township Elementary School and Wooster Township Elementary School. Wooster’s high school graduation rate is 85%, which is 2% higher than the national average. Wooster students perform exceptionally well on tests, scoring 60% higher than the national average! This is likely partially due to the 16:1 student/teacher ratio.
Living in Wooster Pros & Cons
- Pro: Affordable cost of living
- Pro: Good public schools
- Con: Lower average income
- Con: Higher crime rate
Are you relocating to the Wooster, Ohio area? If so, our highly skilled professional Wooster movers are ready to help! We’ll make sure changing your address is a breeze. Call Summit Moving today at 330-633-3633 to get started on your free quote.
