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

225 rentals available

1 of 29
The Deco
$1,429
3450 Indianola Avenue, Columbus, OH 43214
(865) 730-0319
Rent Savings
13 units available
Studio • 1 bed • 2 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Patio / balcony, Hardwood floors, Dishwasher, Pet friendly, New construction + more
Luxurious Convenience
Effortless Living with Modern Amenities and Prime Location
Positioned in the heart of Central Clintonville, The Deco showcases luxurious living while offering proximity to vibrant restaurants, shops, and green spaces. Enjoy cats and dogs being welcomed as part of your family in a community featuring unique Art Deco design and modern amenities such as in-home washers and dryers. Residents delight in the attentive management and comprehensive facilities including a gym, pool, and community garden.
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1500 East 25th Avenue
$850
1500 East 25th Avenue, Columbus, OH 43211
(380) 333-4976
1 unit available
2 bed
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Beucler - 1282 Hunter
$1,100
1282 Hunter Avenue, Columbus, OH 43201
(380) 888-3697 ext. 4
1 unit available
1 bed
Amenities
Dishwasher, Stainless steel, Microwave, Range, and Refrigerator
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The Reach on Goodale
$1,262
644 Chlois Ln, Columbus, OH 43215
(614) 992-7946
16 units available
1 bed • 2 bed • 3 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Patio / balcony, Pet friendly, Parking, Recently renovated, Stainless steel + more
Vibrant Locale
Resort-Style Pool in Popular Downtown
The Reach on Goodale features a vibrant location in Downtown Columbus, offering residents easy access to Short North and Grandview. The community shines with its resort-style pool, perfect for leisure and social interactions. Spacious apartments, combined with a large dog park, make it an ideal choice for pet lovers.
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692 N High Street
$1,245
692 North High Street - 306, Columbus, OH 43215
(614) 683-2568
1 unit available
1 bed
Amenities
Pet friendly, Recently renovated, Stainless steel, 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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The City
$1,360
2875 Olentangy River Road, Columbus, OH 43202
(205) 880-6071
5 units available
Studio • 1 bed • 2 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Patio / balcony, Granite counters, Dishwasher, Pet friendly, Garage + more
Luxury Living
Smart Home Features Near Ohio State
The City offers a luxurious living experience with its modern amenities like Smart Home Technology and a heated, resort-style pool. Located only minutes from The Ohio State University, this residence combines comfort and convenience. Residents are fond of the property's welcoming atmosphere and well-maintained gym.
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695 Riverview
$850
695 Riverview Drive, Columbus, OH 43202
(380) 204-9696
1 unit available
1 bed
Amenities
Range and Refrigerator
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333-335 E Duncan Street
$1,595
333-335 East Duncan Street, Columbus, OH 43202
(380) 666-3345
1 unit available
3 bed
Amenities
W/D hookup, Hardwood floors, Dishwasher, Pet friendly, and Air conditioning
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2686-2688 Hibbert Avenue
$1,195
2686-2688 Hibbert Avenue, Columbus, OH 43202
(380) 256-2721
1 unit available
2 bed
Amenities
On-site laundry and Hardwood floors
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Vera on Broad
$1,125
366 East Broad Street, Columbus, OH 43215
(380) 233-6161
7 units available
1 bed • 3 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Patio / balcony, Hardwood floors, Dishwasher, Pet friendly, 24hr maintenance + more
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The Madison
$1,595
70 N High Street, Columbus, OH 43215
(380) 333-6654
21 units available
1 bed • 2 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Patio / balcony, Hardwood floors, Dishwasher, Dogs allowed, 24hr maintenance + more
Downtown Elegance
Luxury living in coveted Downtown Columbus.
The Madison stands proudly in the heart of Downtown Columbus, offering a lifestyle enriched by location and luxury. With ideal proximity to top restaurants, parks, and entertainment venues, residents revel in convenience and vibrancy. A beautifully restored building, The Madison features modern apartments with stainless steel appliances and spacious layouts. Plus, the community atmosphere is highly praised by enthusiastic tenants.
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Parkside on Pearl
$2,395
35 E Hubbard Avenue, Columbus, OH 43215
(380) 205-2998
3 units available
1 bed • 2 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Patio / balcony, Hardwood floors, Dishwasher, Pet friendly, Stainless steel + 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
$1,250
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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The Diplomat
$1,825
9 Buttles Avenue Apt 307, Columbus, OH 43215
(224) 435-5369
2 units available
1 bed • 2 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Pet friendly, Garage, 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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40 Lincoln
$1,595
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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250 High
$1,723
250 S High St, Columbus, OH 43215
(628) 258-0622
Rent Savings
3 units available
1 bed • 2 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Nest technology, Patio / balcony, Pet friendly, 24hr maintenance, Garage + more
Skyline Views
Vibrant downtown living with stunning skyline views.
250 High offers an incredible urban living experience right in the heart of downtown Columbus. Enjoy the breathtaking views of the Columbus skyline from the rooftop terrace and experience the lively dining and entertainment options just steps away on High Street. With modern features like in-unit washers and dryers, stainless steel appliances, and pet-friendly accommodations for both cats and dogs, this community delivers comfort and convenience.
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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.