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

61 E 7th Avenue
$1,695
61 East 7th Avenue, Columbus, OH 43201
(513) 848-4862
1 unit available
2 bed
Amenities
Pet friendly, Parking, and Recently renovated
Convenient Location
Modern updates and proximity to OSU and Short North.
Enjoy the convenience of being within walking distance to the vibrant Short North Arts District and OSU campus. The property boasts a recently remodeled interior, offering modern updates that tenants have highly appreciated. With off-street parking and flexible lease options, it caters to a variety of lifestyle needs.
Recently updated units
319 W 2nd Avenue
$3,000
319 West 2nd Avenue, Columbus, OH 43201
(614) 519-3472
1 unit available
2 bed
Amenities
On-site laundry, Patio / balcony, Granite counters, Hardwood floors, Dishwasher, Garage + more
Recently updated units
1155 E 22nd Avenue
$950
1155 East 22nd Avenue, Columbus, OH 43211
(614) 255-6452
1 unit available
2 bed
Amenities
W/D hookup, Patio / balcony, Hardwood floors, Fireplace, Range, and Refrigerator
Recently updated units
766 N 6th St
$5,150
766 North 6th Street, Columbus, OH 43215
(614) 398-2068
1 unit available
5 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Patio / balcony, Dishwasher, Pet friendly, Garage, Recently renovated + more
Recently updated units
2080 Bancroft Street
$1,450
2080 Bancroft Street, Columbus, OH 43219
(614) 678-3114
1 unit available
4 bed
Amenities
W/D hookup, Pet friendly, Garage, Air conditioning, Accessible, and Range
Spacious Comfort
Spacious, accessible home with generous amenities.
2080 Bancroft Street offers a welcoming three-bedroom layout with accessibility features, ideal for a comfortable lifestyle. Residents love the large fenced-in yard for relaxation, paired with a garage and additional storage space. Tenants appreciate the thoughtful amenities, making it a perfect home to suit various needs.
Recently updated units
2486 Findley Avenue
$1,600
2486 Findley Avenue, Columbus, OH 43202
(614) 657-1219
1 unit available
2 bed
Amenities
W/D hookup, Patio / balcony, Dishwasher, Pet friendly, Parking, and Recently renovated
Recently updated units
North Campus OSU Single Family House
$3,000
2257 Indianola Avenue, Columbus, OH 43202
(614) 299-4110
1 unit available
5 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Patio / balcony, Hardwood floors, Dishwasher, Pet friendly, Parking + more
Recently updated units
60 East Spring Street
$2,300
60 East Spring Street, Columbus, OH 43215
(614) 464-7638
1 unit available
2 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Patio / balcony, Dishwasher, Dogs allowed, Garage, Coffee bar + more
Urban Charm
Stunning city views centrally located in downtown Columbus.
Discover the allure of this centrally located downtown Columbus residence with its modern industrial loft design and luxurious finishes. With a unique blend of high ceilings and polished concrete floors, the apartments exude urban charm. Enjoy a vibrant lifestyle complemented by a rooftop terrace offering breathtaking city views and a suite of top-notch amenities.
Recently updated units
1187 Cromartie Lane
$3,400
1187 Cromartie Lane, Columbus, OH 43201
(614) 725-7755
1 unit available
2 bed
Amenities
On-site laundry, Patio / balcony, Dishwasher, Garage, Walk in closets, and Microwave
Recently updated units
463 N High Street unit: 5D
$1,350
463 North High Street, Columbus, OH 43215
(216) 215-2487
1 unit available
1 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Granite counters, Hardwood floors, Dishwasher, Garage, Elevator + more
Downtown Charm
Charming blend of historic and modern downtown.
Discover an enchanting retreat at 463 N High Street, nestled within the heart of downtown Columbus. Residents cherish the blend of charming original hardwood floors and sleek modern amenities, as well as perks like an in-unit washer and dryer and included parking. Plus, the building's location offers unparalleled access to celebrated restaurants and attractions.
Recently updated units
7 Bedroom 3 bath House.
$5,600
226 East 14th Avenue, Columbus, OH 43201
(614) 294-7067
1 unit available
7 bed
Amenities
Patio / balcony, Dishwasher, Parking, Stainless steel, Air conditioning, and Ceiling fan
Recently updated units
1186-1188 Perry Street - 1188
$1,650
1186 Perry Street, Columbus, OH 43201
(614) 809-8978
1 unit available
3 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Patio / balcony, Granite counters, Dishwasher, Parking, Recently renovated + more
Recently updated units
127 East 8th Avenue
$3,800
127 East 8th Avenue, Columbus, OH 43201
(614) 465-6683
1 unit available
3 bed
Amenities
Patio / balcony, Dishwasher, Pet friendly, Garage, Walk in closets, Air conditioning + more
Recently updated units
198 West 6th Avenue
$3,800
198 West 6th Avenue, Columbus, OH 43201
(614) 465-6683
1 unit available
3 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Patio / balcony, Hardwood floors, Dishwasher, Parking, Recently renovated + more
Modern Comfort
Ideal location with luxurious modern amenities
Experience modern living in a prime location at 198 West 6th Avenue. Residents love the ease of access to High Street, Neil Avenue, and downtown, as well as the luxurious amenities like private bathrooms and heated floors. The welcoming neighborhood adds to the charm, offering a peaceful yet central living environment.
Recently updated units
212 E Hudson Street
$1,500
212 East Hudson Street, Columbus, OH 43202
(614) 623-9855
1 unit available
3 bed
Amenities
Dishwasher, Pet friendly, Some paid utils, Microwave, Range, and Refrigerator
Prime Location
Close to OSU and Downtown Columbus
Experience the convenience of living near OSU and downtown Columbus. Residents appreciate the excellent location that provides easy access to vibrant city life. The property's features like in-unit laundry, dedicated parking, and a cozy fireplace make it an attractive choice for renters.
Recently updated units
196 West 6th Avenue
$3,800
196 West 6th Avenue, Columbus, OH 43201
(614) 465-6683
1 unit available
3 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Patio / balcony, Hardwood floors, Dishwasher, Parking, Recently renovated + more
Luxurious Design
Spacious luxury home near The Ohio State University.
Experience modern luxury at this tastefully renovated home at The Bryant on West 6th. Each spacious bedroom comes with a private full bathroom, ensuring maximum comfort and privacy. Enjoy the elegant features such as heated floors and a master ensuite. Ideally located near The Ohio State University, this residence promises convenience and upscale living.
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.