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

207 rentals available

1 of 13
1324 E 25th Avenue
$1,000
1324 East 25th Avenue, Columbus, OH 43211
(614) 255-6452
1 unit available
2 bed
Amenities
W/D hookup, Hardwood floors, Range, and Refrigerator
Recently updated units
1 of 5
Modern Living in the Heart of 43212 | Fully Renovated 2BR at 1772 N Star Ave
$1,275
1772 North Star Avenue, Columbus, OH 43212
(614) 349-8159
1 unit available
2 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Hardwood floors, Dishwasher, Pet friendly, Recently renovated, Air conditioning + more
Recently updated units
Three Bedroom with Garage near Grandview
$2,695
1786 Drayton Park Court, Columbus, OH 43212
(614) 226-6841
1 unit available
3 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Granite counters, Hardwood floors, Dishwasher, Pet friendly, Garage + more
Recently updated units
Coming Soon: 3-Bedroom Ranch w/Covered Patio and Huge Yard!
$1,300
2059 Bancroft Street, Columbus, OH 43219
(614) 582-3505
1 unit available
3 bed
Amenities
Patio / balcony, Parking, Recently renovated, Range, and Refrigerator
Recently updated units
2097 Summit Street
$3,643
2097 Summit Street, Columbus, OH 43201
(326) 444-5539
1 unit available
6 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Patio / balcony, Dishwasher, Pet friendly, Parking, and Air conditioning
Recently updated units
245 Collins Avenue
$3,500
245 Collins Avenue, Columbus, OH 43215
(326) 444-5539
1 unit available
4 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Patio / balcony, Dishwasher, Pet friendly, Garage, Recently renovated + more
Prime Location
Steps from Dining & Entertainment
Nestled in Victorian Village, 245 Collins Avenue boasts proximity to vibrant locales like Goodale Park and Short North. Residents revel in easy access to a plethora of dining and entertainment hotspots. Inside, enjoy a newly remodeled kitchen and a charming front porch perfect for relaxation.
Recently updated units
1205 E 23rd Ave
$1,050
1205 East 23rd Avenue, Columbus, OH 43211
(614) 502-2619
1 unit available
2 bed
Amenities
W/D hookup, Hardwood floors, Dishwasher, Pet friendly, Air conditioning, and Range
Recently updated units
982 Highland Street
$2,490
982 Highland Street, Columbus, OH 43201
(614) 439-6180
1 unit available
2 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Patio / balcony, Dishwasher, Recently renovated, Bbq/grill, Microwave + more
Recently updated units
37 W 3rd Avenue
$4,200
37 West 3rd Avenue, Columbus, OH 43201
(614) 284-5200
1 unit available
4 bed
Amenities
Patio / balcony, Hardwood floors, Dishwasher, Recently renovated, Fireplace, Microwave + more
Recently updated units
1803 N 4th St
$1,250
1803 North 4th Street, Columbus, OH 43201
(380) 235-5090
1 unit available
2 bed
Amenities
Pet friendly
Recently updated units
104 Mcmillen Ave
$1,649
104 McMillen Avenue, Columbus, OH 43201
(614) 304-1734
1 unit available
3 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Dishwasher, Pet friendly, Parking, and Air conditioning
Recently updated units
1280 Highland Street - 1280 1/2
$1,250
1280 Highland Street, Columbus, OH 43201
(614) 787-7011
1 unit available
2 bed
Amenities
Hardwood floors, Parking, Recently renovated, Walk in closets, Air conditioning, Fireplace + more
Prime Location
Modern charm near Victorian Village and OSU.
Discover this charming property located close to Victorian Village and Ohio State University. Residents applaud its modern, recently renovated interiors featuring new appliances, fresh paint, and updated flooring. With the convenience of off-street parking and on-site laundry facilities, comfort is always at hand.
Recently updated units
1280-1282 Highland Street - 1282 1/2
$1,250
1282 1/2 Highland Street, Columbus, OH 43201
(614) 787-7011
1 unit available
2 bed
Amenities
On-site laundry, Hardwood floors, Dishwasher, Parking, Recently renovated, Air conditioning + more
Convenient Living
Close to OSU and Victorian Village
Experience the charm of being close to Victorian Village and OSU in this recently renovated unit. With a highly dog-friendly neighborhood boasting plenty of green spaces and pet-friendly establishments, enjoy walks with your furry companions. The area is known for its friendly community and offers convenient access to major highways for easy commuting.
Recently updated units
1577 Cordell Ave
$925
1577 Cordell Avenue, Columbus, OH 43211
(330) 632-3482
1 unit available
2 bed
Amenities
W/D hookup, Hardwood floors, Pet friendly, Parking, Fireplace, and Range
Recently updated units
1084 E 16Th Ave
$1,300
1084 East 16th Avenue, Columbus, OH 43211
(330) 632-3482
1 unit available
6 bed
Amenities
W/D hookup, Recently renovated, Gym, Air conditioning, Extra storage, Range + more
Recently updated units
452 Clinton Street
$1,995
452 Clinton Street, Columbus, OH 43202
(513) 257-7716
1 unit available
4 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Granite counters, Hardwood floors, Dishwasher, Pet friendly, and Parking
Recently updated units

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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.