In 1846 the Mahoning County Agriculture and Horticultural society hosted their first annual fair. The fair presented a horse race, a small livestock show, and of course a plowing contest. It's changed just a bit in the years since the fair's inauguration. Today, the Canfield Fair is the (perhaps self-proclaimed) biggest and best fair in Ohio. The fair hosts live concerts of famous country stars, carnivals, art, and of course animals and farm products. This highly anticipated event is one of many aspects that make Canfield a unique place to live.
Canfield, located just outside of Youngstown and home to about 7,500 people, was settled in the late 1700s. By 1805, the town's population skyrocketed to include 17 homes and a school. During the mid 1800s, a mini war broke out--okay, not literally--between Youngstown and Canfield about which town should be the county seat. It took the Supreme Court to tell Canfield to back down and let Youngstown have the title. Defending Canfield in court was the future President, James A. Garfield. Even though the city is rich in history, it blends its history with modern upgrades. The city is split between historical homes and brand-new housing. If you're into older homes, you can take your pick. If you're into more modern residences, you can still take your pick. It's a win-win for everyone.
Moving to Canfield
If you're looking for rental housing in Canfield, then your search will be a little easier than if you're looking for rental apartments. Although over 20 percent of Canfield's population is renters, rental homes tend to be more common than apartments.
What's on the Menu?
If you're looking for a rental house, you can have your choice of quite a few options in the various neighborhoods in Canfield. Since 16 percent of the residences in Canfield are apartments, there is a broad range to choose from. Whether you're into something newer and more modern, or older with lots of character, you have options. It's funny how wide your range of options is in terms of age, style, and size of residences.
Keep in Mind...
If you're thinking about renting an older home or apartment, there are certain issues you'll need to bear in mind. Older homes tend to need more maintenance and have more issues than newer homes. But then again, sometimes there's nothing like the character of 100-year-old original crown molding, and knowing there is historical significance to the home you call home. It's best to really determine your wants and needs before heading out on your house search to make the process easier.
When to Shop
Many of the apartments available are through private owners or realtors as opposed to a rental agency. Keep in mind that many of these people work normal business hours and you will need to be available during those times. Although there is not a huge amount of vacancies, there shouldn't be trouble finding a house or apartment any time of year. However, Canfield does have chilly winters, so if you're planning on being outside a lot either bring a heavy jacket or wait until the warmer months.
Be Prepared
Although many of the rentals are through private owners, don't think you're going to get out of an application fee, credit check, and background check. Luckily though some apartments offer discounted rents or lower deposits based on your credit rating.
Canfield Neighborhoods
There are a few neighborhoods in Canfield to choose from, all with their own personality and attributes. With little in the way of public transportation, Canfield is a city of motorists-most people drive to work and have an average commute around 15 to 30 minutes.
Canfield Estates: With easy access to a number of highways, Canfield Estates has the perfect location for commuters and travelers. Don't worry though. Access is close, but not too close. You're not so close that you can hear traffic, but you're close enough to hop on and get where you need to go.
Briar Cliff Heights: This neighborhood offers affordable options for Canfield residents to live and play. Although this neighborhood is within a mile of local schools, residents depend on their car to get to most places. Fortunately, residents have Angenetta's Caf̩ and Bakery and JR Grinder, both delicious local favorites, when they need to fill their tummies.
Stonebridge: Offering easy access to Mill Creek MetroParks Farm, Stonebridge is one of the more walkable neighborhoods in Canfield. Many errands do require a car, but there is a nearby grocery store and two great restaurants: Oven Fresh Pizza Co. and Caffe Dars, both of which local residents enjoy!
Living in Canfield
Although Canfield is a suburban area, its proximity to Youngstown and Cleveland give the residents the best of both worlds. For a small city, there's lots of diversity in the local cuisine. Many residents rave about Silvia's Lebanese Deli. Bella Napoli, Whitefire Grille, and Spirits and Tequila Jalisco are all fan favorites in the area. On a warm Saturday afternoon, many people head to Greasel Park to enjoy a sunny day, while others head to Youngstown to visit one of the malls. Others also head to Youngstown to check out a high school football game to try and spot the next rising star that Ohio State might recruit. Although there's much to be proud of, residents wait all year for late August or early September when hundreds of thousands of people come to their small town to see one of the biggest and best fairs in Ohio, and according to some the best in the United States.
