Mt. Vernon is located in central Ohio in Knox County (of which it is the county seat) about 35 miles northeast of Columbus on the banks of the Kokosing River. The population estimate for July 1, 1998 was 14,973, an increase of 423 since 1990.
The town is the home of Mt. Vernon Nazarene College for those seeking a post-high school education. In addition, Kenyon College is located just 4 miles to the east in Gambier.
Outdoor recreation can be found in and around Knox Lake about 10 miles north of town. In addition, golfers have a choice of Chapel Hill Golf Course, Hiawatha Golf Course and Irish Hills Golf Course, each a public 18-hole facilty.