📍 About MFD & Mansfield
Mansfield Lahm Regional Airport (MFD) serves as a joint civil-military facility and is home to Mansfield Tower. Situated between Columbus and Cleveland, Mansfield offers affordable living, a close-knit community, and access to nature. It’s an ideal post for controllers looking for a quieter lifestyle with proximity to larger cities.
🏡 Where to Live
Singles & Couples
- Downtown Mansfield – Historic charm, walkable spots, revitalization efforts
- Ontario – Small town with chain stores, close to the airport
- Lexington – Peaceful suburban living, nice rentals
Families
- Lexington – Great schools, family-oriented, parks
- Ontario – Retail amenities, good public schools
- Bellville – Rural charm, scenic homesites, quiet
- Madison Township – Affordable housing, established neighborhoods
🚗 Commute Times to MFD
- 5–10 min: Ontario, Lexington, Madison Township
- 15–20 min: Bellville, Butler
- 25–30 min: Shelby, Ashland
🎓 Top School Districts
- Lexington Local Schools – Highly rated academics & sports
- Ontario Local Schools – Strong test scores and facilities
- Madison Local Schools – Good reputation, large district
🧳 Things to Do – Within 2 Hours, Year-Round
🌲 Outdoor Activities
- Malabar Farm State Park: Hiking, history, working farm
- Mohican State Park: Trails, camping, canoeing
- Snow Trails: Skiing and snowboarding in winter
- B&O Bike Trail: Long paved trail through scenic areas
🏛️ Indoor & Cultural
- Renaissance Theatre: Broadway-style shows and concerts
- Kingwood Center Gardens: Historic mansion and floral gardens
- Little Buckeye Children’s Museum: Great for families
- Columbus & Cleveland: Both cities within 1.5 hours for big events
✈️ Nearby Airports
- Mansfield Lahm Regional (MFD): Served by charter, general aviation, military
- Cleveland Hopkins (CLE): ~1.5 hrs – major commercial service
- John Glenn Columbus Intl (CMH): ~1.5 hrs – another commercial option
🧭 Helpful Resources for Newcomers
🛡️ Crime & Safety + Town Websites
- Lexington & Ontario: Considered very safe
- Downtown Mansfield: Mixed – varies block-by-block
- Madison Township & Bellville: Quiet and suburban/rural safety
🔗 Town Websites
💰 Cost of Living
- Median home price: ~$135,000–$190,000
- 1-bedroom rent: ~$650–$900/month
- Groceries: Below national average
- Gas: ~$3.30/gallon
- Utilities: ~$130–$180/month
- Taxes: Ohio state income tax 2.75–3.5%
🌆 Neighborhood Highlights
- Lexington: Best schools, clean and quiet neighborhoods
- Ontario: Shopping and amenities, short commute
- Bellville: Rural setting, scenic homes
☀️ Seasonal Weather
- Winter: Cold, snowy – occasional lake-effect snow
- Spring: Mild and rainy, good for gardens
- Summer: Warm and humid, 70s–80s
- Fall: Beautiful foliage, crisp temperatures
🚇 Public Transportation & Traffic
- Richland County Transit: Basic bus routes in Mansfield/Ontario
- Driving: Most people drive; low congestion
- Highway Access: Easy access to I-71 and US-30
🏥 Healthcare & Urgent Care
- OhioHealth Mansfield Hospital
- Avita Ontario Hospital
- Walk-in clinics: Convenient options around Ontario/Mansfield
🫂 Social Life & Community
- Young professionals: Brewery scene, downtown revitalization
- Families: Community events, parks, good local sports leagues
- Weekend Trips: Columbus, Cleveland, and Amish Country
🍽️ Dining & Food Scene
- Hudson & Essex: Wine bar and upscale dining
- Uncle John’s Place: Local favorite for burgers and casual eats
- 2 Cousins Brewing Co: Craft beer and events
- Doc’s Deli: High-quality sandwiches and soups
🛫 ATC-Specific Tips
- Facility: Civil/military operation with National Guard presence
- Ops: Mostly general aviation with occasional military traffic
- Team: Smaller, tight-knit team – good place to grow
📦 Moving Tips
- Best time to move: May–September for weather and rentals
- Winter prep: Be ready for snow and ice driving
- Rental search: Focus on Lexington and Ontario for easy commutes
❓ FAQs
- What’s it like working at MFD?
Small-facility feel with exposure to unique military traffic; good experience for developmentals - Is Mansfield a quiet place to live?
Yes, especially in suburbs like Lexington and Bellville. Great for families and those avoiding urban bustle. - What’s the cost of living like?
Very affordable. Home prices and rent are well below national average.