Where do most Ohio State students live?

Most first and second-year Ohio State students live in residence, while the rest live in off-campus apartments near OSU. OSU is surrounded by the following student-friendly neighborhoods: - University District : The University District directly surrounds OSU, so it’s the ideal neighborhood for students with 8 a.m. classes! Housing ranges from apartment complexes to subdivided homes. When not on campus, residents can enjoy diverse entertainment options, including Buckeye Football at Ohio Stadium. - Short North : Conveniently located just south of campus, the hip Short North area is filled with converted warehouses. During off hours, students can enjoy cheap eats and visit one of many nearby vintage clothing or album stores. - Arena District : The Arena District is a newer development filled with modern, trendy apartments. While it’s a short transit ride to campus, the neighborhood is within walking distance of many professional sports and music venues.

How much does it cost to live off-campus at OSU?

Off-campus living expenses vary student to student. For housing, rent depends on – Location and proximity to school – Number of roommates – Building and neighborhood amenities The median rent in Columbus , depending on apartment size, is: - 1BR : $1,108/month - 2BR : $1,327/month Students also have to factor in the cost of food and transportation. The total cost of living for an OSU student ranges between $630 and $2,000/month .

Is it cheaper to live in a dorm or an off-campus apartment?

This depends on your lifestyle. A student living alone and enjoying takeout will pay more than someone in residence with a campus meal plan. When it comes to expenses, it’s best to set a budget and stick to it, no matter where you live.

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Apartments for Rent near Ohio State University-Main Campus

243 rentals available

(M2) - 361 Cliffside Flats
$1,395
361 Cliffside Drive, Columbus, OH 43202
(380) 267-4664
1 unit available
2 bed
Amenities
Dishwasher, Range, and Refrigerator
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Parkside on Pearl
$2,595
35 E Hubbard Avenue, Columbus, OH 43215
(380) 205-2998
1 unit available
1 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Hardwood floors, Dishwasher, Pet friendly, Stainless steel, Pool + more
Luxurious Living
Sophisticated Elegance in Italian Village
Parkside on Pearl offers luxurious living with a prime location just off High Street, only steps away from the dynamic atmosphere of the Short North. Residents adore the expansive living spaces, high ceilings, and floor-to-ceiling windows. Excellent amenities include a pool, gym, and pet-friendly policy for a comprehensive urban lifestyle.
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Beucler - 1051 Hunter
$1,350
1051 Hunter Avenue, Columbus, OH 43201
(308) 280-2303
1 unit available
1 bed
Amenities
Microwave, Range, and Refrigerator
Urban Retreat
Thriving cultural hub with vibrant surroundings.
Nestled in the charming Victorian Village, Beucler - 1051 Hunter offers a dynamic living experience. Residents rave about its close proximity to delightful eateries, breweries, and coffee shops, along with the beautiful Goodale Park. This neighborhood stands out for its walkability, making vibrant entertainment, shopping, and dining conveniently accessible.
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Edgehill Flats LLC
$2,250
1155 Edgehill Road, Grandview Heights, OH 43212
(380) 257-5701
1 unit available
1 bed
Amenities
On-site laundry, Dishwasher, Parking, Microwave, Internet access, and Range
Prominent Views
Highly Praised; Top Rating For Amenities
Edgehill Flats LLC excels with modern amenities like in-unit washers and dryers, granite countertops, and stainless steel appliances. Reviews consistently praise the warm and welcoming management team. The property's sought-after location in Grandview Heights provides easy access to Ohio State University and Short North.
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2589-2591 N Fourth Street
$1,795
2589-2591 North 4th Street, Columbus, OH 43202
(380) 324-4568
1 unit available
3 bed
Amenities
W/D hookup, Patio / balcony, Hardwood floors, Dishwasher, Pet friendly, Garage + more
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EBP Calumet
$1,275
2688 Calumet Street, Columbus, OH 43202
(380) 226-8449
1 unit available
1 bed
Amenities
W/D hookup and Patio / balcony
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Wood Co. Building Apartments
$1,675
939 N High Street, Columbus, OH 43201
(669) 202-2263
3 units available
1 bed • 2 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Patio / balcony, Hardwood floors, Dishwasher, Pet friendly, Garage + more
Prime Locale
Experience the vibrant Short North lifestyle.
Wood Co. Building Apartments offer a prime locale in the vibrant Short North district, enhancing the lifestyle with nearby restaurants and diverse shops. Residents appreciate exclusive access to a spacious 4,500-square-foot rooftop terrace with a reflecting pool, gas grill, and soft seating, offering a perfect space for relaxation and social gatherings. The property stands out with high-end finishes such as granite countertops and hardwood floors, complemented by superior maintenance service.
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692 N High Street
$1,245
692 North High Street - 306, Columbus, OH 43215
(614) 683-2568
2 units available
1 bed • 2 bed
Amenities
Pet friendly, Recently renovated, Stainless steel, Walk in closets, and Range
Historic Charm
In the heart of Short North, vibrant lifestyle awaits.
Residents enjoy a prime location in Short North, surrounded by shopping, galleries, and dining. With beautifully renovated units featuring historic details like exposed brick and decorative fireplaces, this community exudes character. Bright and inviting spaces are enhanced by large windows, ideal for pets and outdoor lovers with nearby walkable areas.
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EBP - 121 Arcadia
$1,150
121 East Arcadia Avenue, Columbus, OH 43202
(252) 542-3630
1 unit available
2 bed
Amenities
On-site laundry, Range, and Refrigerator
Prime Location
Vibrant community with superb walkability and local convenience.
Nestled in the lively Old North Columbus neighborhood, EBP - 121 Arcadia boasts a prime location that's a walker's paradise. With a Walk Score of 91, everyday errands become a breeze with shops and restaurants on High Street just steps away. The property's proximity to The Ohio State University enhances its appeal for students and staff alike.
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1715-1717-1719-1721 N Star Road
$1,595
1715 North Star Road, Upper Arlington, OH 43212
(380) 230-3490
1 unit available
2 bed
Amenities
W/D hookup, Hardwood floors, Dishwasher, Pet friendly, Garage, Air conditioning + more
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188-190-192-194 Kinnear Alley
$1,395
188 East Kinnear Alley, Columbus, OH 43202
(614) 412-3398
1 unit available
2 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Hardwood floors, Dishwasher, Parking, Air conditioning, and Range
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57 Smith Place
$1,695
57 Smith Place, Columbus, OH 43201
(614) 368-7186
1 unit available
2 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Dishwasher, Range, and Refrigerator
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The Diplomat
$1,595
9 Buttles Avenue Apt 307, Columbus, OH 43215
(224) 435-5369
4 units available
1 bed • 2 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Pet friendly, Parking, Stainless steel, Gym, Key fob access + more
Modern Elegance
Sophisticated living in vibrant Columbus neighborhood.
The Diplomat offers a beautifully designed space in Columbus's Short North area. Residents enjoy a gourmet kitchen and in-unit laundry. With both cats and dogs allowed, it's a pet-friendly haven. The vibrant local scene is highlighted by an abundance of nearby restaurants, parks, and schools.
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198-200 E Hudson Street
$1,695
198-200 East Hudson Street, Columbus, OH 43202
(380) 324-0911
1 unit available
3 bed
Amenities
W/D hookup, Hardwood floors, Dishwasher, Parking, Air conditioning, and Range
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40 Lincoln
$1,495
40 E Lincoln St, Columbus, OH 43215
(918) 215-7361
2 units available
1 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Patio / balcony, Dishwasher, Pet friendly, Garage, Stainless steel + more
Urban Oasis
Prime Columbus location with skyline views.
40 Lincoln offers a contemporary lifestyle with modern design and premium finishes. Situated in the Short North district, its prime location grants easy access to Columbus's vibrant nightlife and diverse dining scene. The rooftop terrace, complete with dining and soft seating, provides stunning views of the city skyline, making it perfect for relaxation. With amenities like in-unit laundry and pet-friendly options, it provides great value for urban living.
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Industry Columbus Apartments
$1,085
230 E. Long Street, Columbus, OH 43215
(614) 350-6001
Rent Savings
36 units available
Studio • 1 bed • 2 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Patio / balcony, Hardwood floors, Dishwasher, Pet friendly, 24hr maintenance + more
Urban Convenience
Prime Downtown Columbus Location Near Arts & Entertainment
Discover the vibrant lifestyle at Industry Columbus Apartments, perfectly positioned in downtown Columbus. Enjoy seamless access to the North Shore Arts District, Arena District, and a plethora of dining, shopping, and nightlife options. Reviews highlight the friendly management, excellent amenities, and exciting resident activities, making it a delightful place to live.
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Finding Apartments Near Ohio State University

Congratulations on joining the more than 65,000 students enrolled at Ohio State University! Founded in 1873, OSU is one of the best public universities in Ohio and boasts the 3rd largest university campus in the U.S.

Students enjoy a vibrant academic community in the heart of Columbus. OSU hosts more than 1,000 clubs, 10 libraries, and — of course — Buckeye’s football. The walkable campus is home to notable historic buildings, recreational facilities, and outdoor attractions like Chadwick Arboretum and Mirror Lake. With so much to do, finding an apartment near Ohio State University is key not only to a successful college career but an active social life.

With 32% of students living in Ohio State campus housing, finding apartments near OSU is a top concern for social enrollees. Thankfully for students at OSU, Columbus housing is diverse and affordable, with great options for frosh and first-time renters.

Apartment List is the perfect tool to find affordable student housing near Ohio State University. Download the app to your phone from Google Play or the App Store, then complete the Renter Quiz. Our powerful AI will curate a list of off-campus housing near OSU based on filters like budget, neighborhoods, and transit options. Whether you’re looking for an in-home rental or an apartment complex near OSU, you’ll find a safe place to crash in no time — one that puts student necessities like coffee shops and grocery stores within reach.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Most first and second-year Ohio State students live in residence, while the rest live in off-campus apartments near OSU.
OSU is surrounded by the following student-friendly neighborhoods:
- - University District: The University District directly surrounds OSU, so it’s the ideal neighborhood for students with 8 a.m. classes! Housing ranges from apartment complexes to subdivided homes. When not on campus, residents can enjoy diverse entertainment options, including Buckeye Football at Ohio Stadium.
- - Short North: Conveniently located just south of campus, the hip Short North area is filled with converted warehouses. During off hours, students can enjoy cheap eats and visit one of many nearby vintage clothing or album stores.
- - Arena District: The Arena District is a newer development filled with modern, trendy apartments. While it’s a short transit ride to campus, the neighborhood is within walking distance of many professional sports and music venues.
Off-campus living expenses vary student to student. For housing, rent depends on
- – Location and proximity to school
- – Number of roommates
- – Building and neighborhood amenities
The median rent in Columbus, depending on apartment size, is:
- - 1BR: $1,108/month
- - 2BR: $1,327/month
Students also have to factor in the cost of food and transportation. The total cost of living for an OSU student ranges between $630 and $2,000/month.