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

218 rentals available

1 of 35
Industry Columbus Apartments
$1,195
230 E. Long Street, Columbus, OH 43215
(614) 350-6001
Rent Savings
25 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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Student Housing - Luxe Belle
$1,239
1529 North High Street, Columbus, OH 43201
(740) 299-1971
Rent Savings
student
10 units available
1 bed • 2 bed • 3 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Patio / balcony, Hardwood floors, Dishwasher, Pet friendly, 24hr maintenance + more
Convenient Living
Prime student housing near Ohio State University
Luxe Belle, situated near Ohio State University, offers the ultimate in student living. Residents enjoy sleek, modern apartments filled with natural light and a vibrant setting. Amenities like the fitness center, coffee bar, and spacious study rooms enhance the overall experience, paired with rave reviews for the convenient location and welcoming management.
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StateHouse Varsity - Student Housing
$1,450
11 East 17th Avenue, Columbus, OH 43201
(510) 974-7504
5 units available
2 bed • 3 bed • 4 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Patio / balcony, Granite counters, Dishwasher, Pet friendly, New construction + more
Campus Convenience
Ideal student housing near OSU and vibrant amenities.
StateHouse Varsity offers a prime location for student life, directly across from The Oval at OSU. Enjoy easy access to classes and a plethora of local dining and shopping options. The community thrives with exceptional on-site amenities, including a fitness center and furnished living spaces. Both cats and dogs are welcome, adding to the pet-friendly atmosphere.
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Fisher Commons
$1,150
900 Nettle Drive, Columbus, OH 43210
(614) 678-5952
Rent Savings
student
3 units available
1 bed • 2 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Dishwasher, Pet friendly, 24hr maintenance, Garage, Walk in closets + more
Modern Serenity
Convenient, peaceful living with modern amenities.
Fisher Commons offers a tranquil setting with spacious, modern apartments. Residents appreciate the ample natural light from large windows and peaceful surroundings, making it ideal for focused study sessions. The community is pet friendly, allowing both cats and dogs, and well-managed, with positive reviews about the responsive staff.
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The Deco
$1,599
3450 Indianola Avenue, Columbus, OH 43214
(865) 730-0319
Rent Savings
14 units available
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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Large House w/ off-street parking & 3 BATHROOMS!
$3,450
2005 Summit Street, Columbus, OH 43201
(380) 333-4353
1 unit available
7 bed
Amenities
On-site laundry, Patio / balcony, Hardwood floors, Dishwasher, Pet friendly, Parking + more
Spacious Living
Convenience Central Near Campus
This expansive home in the Iuka Ravine area combines convenience with charm. Ideally situated close to central campus, it offers easy access to numerous amenities and transportation options. Enjoy a stunning living environment complete with hardwood floors and a pet-friendly policy.
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5 Bedroom House - Walking distance from Central Campus
$3,100
2015 Summit Street, Columbus, OH 43201
(380) 888-2681
1 unit available
5 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Patio / balcony, Dishwasher, Pet friendly, Parking, and Range
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2024 Summit St.
$1,350
2024 Summit Street, Columbus, OH 43201
(380) 205-8885
1 unit available
2 bed
Amenities
On-site laundry, Patio / balcony, Dishwasher, Parking, Air conditioning, and Range
Serene Living
Convenient amenities in a tranquil setting.
2024 Summit Street offers a tranquil lifestyle with its serene balconies overlooking the beautiful Iuka Ravine. Residents rave about the convenience of having on-site laundry and the bonus of free parking. Its pet-friendly policy and comfortable amenities enhance the living experience.
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641 N High Street
$1,450
641 North High Street, Columbus, OH 43215
(614) 762-9278
3 units available
1 bed • 2 bed
Amenities
W/D hookup, Granite counters, Hardwood floors, Parking, Stainless steel, and Online portal
Prime Location
Historic charm in vibrant Short North district.
Enjoy living at the heart of Short North, where modern conveniences meet historic charm. The apartments at 641 N High Street feature floor-to-ceiling windows and decorative fireplaces. Residents highlight the secure entry and optional garage parking as key conveniences.
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Wile - 1672-1678 Wyandotte
$1,595
1672-1678 Wyandotte Road, Columbus, OH 43212
(380) 226-8341
1 unit available
2 bed
Amenities
Range and Refrigerator
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2203-2205 McGuffey Rd.
$1,050
2203-2205 Mcguffey Road, Columbus, OH 43211
(380) 230-3559
1 unit available
2 bed
Amenities
W/D hookup, Parking, Range, Oven, and Refrigerator
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Beucler - 1282 Hunter
$1,200
1282 Hunter Avenue, Columbus, OH 43201
(380) 888-3697 ext. 4
2 units available
1 bed • 2 bed
Amenities
Dishwasher, Stainless steel, Microwave, Range, and Refrigerator
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Edgehill Flats LLC
$1,225
1155 Edgehill Road, Grandview Heights, OH 43212
(380) 233-6551
1 unit available
1 bed
Amenities
Microwave, Range, Oven, and Refrigerator
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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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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1995-1997 N 4th St
$1,700
1995-1997 North 4th Street, Columbus, OH 43201
(380) 600-3125
1 unit available
3 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Dishwasher, Air conditioning, Range, Oven, and Refrigerator
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695 Riverview
$875
695 Riverview Drive, Columbus, OH 43202
(380) 208-1757
1 unit available
1 bed
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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.