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

261 rentals available

1512 Indianola Ave
$2,400
1512 Indianola Avenue, Columbus, OH 43201
(380) 800-5443
1 unit available
4 bed
Amenities
Dishwasher, Pet friendly, 24hr maintenance, Garage, Air conditioning, and Ceiling fan
Recently updated units
640 Neil Avenue
$3,600
640 Neil Avenue, Columbus, OH 43215
(614) 592-7802
1 unit available
3 bed
Amenities
Patio / balcony, Dishwasher, Garage, Recently renovated, Coffee bar, Extra storage + more
Recently updated units
1638 Indianola Avenue
$1,695
1638 Indianola Avenue, Columbus, OH 43201
(326) 444-5539
1 unit available
3 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Patio / balcony, Dishwasher, Pet friendly, and Refrigerator
Prime Location
Convenient Near High Street and OSU Campus
Nestled just a block from High Street, this property offers unbeatable convenience with close proximity to The Ohio State University campus. Residents praise the location for its easy access to shops, restaurants, and entertainment. The neighborhood is dog-friendly and very walkable, complemented by nearby parks and bike trails.
Recently updated units
1280 Neil Ave
$1,999
1280 Neil Avenue, Columbus, OH 43201
(614) 304-1734
1 unit available
1 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Patio / balcony, Granite counters, Hardwood floors, Dishwasher, Pet friendly + more
Recently updated units
1377 Northwest Blvd - Apt B
$1,475
1377 Northwest Boulevard, Columbus, OH 43212
(614) 306-9878
1 unit available
2 bed
Amenities
W/D hookup, Granite counters, Dishwasher, Carport, Stainless steel, Coffee bar + more
Prime Location
Convenience and comfort in Grandview Heights neighborhood.
Located in the popular Grandview Heights neighborhood, this charming apartment offers easy access to a host of dining, shopping, and leisure options. The apartment's cozy decorative fireplace and stainless steel kitchen add to its inviting atmosphere, ideal for comfort and convenience seekers. Enjoy the additional perks like ample storage, a dedicated carport, and the highly praised cozy interiors.
Recently updated units
73 N 5th St
$3,350
73 North 5th Street, Columbus, OH 43215
(614) 600-2507
1 unit available
3 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Patio / balcony, Dishwasher, Pet friendly, Garage, Recently renovated + more
Recently updated units
2440 Summit Street
$1,850
2440 Summit Street, Columbus, OH 43202
(614) 356-9668
1 unit available
3 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Hardwood floors, Dishwasher, Parking, Recently renovated, and Stainless steel
Recently updated units
1046 Republic Ave
$875
1046 Republic Avenue, Columbus, OH 43211
(380) 235-5090
1 unit available
1 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Pet friendly, Range, and Refrigerator
Recently updated units
1351 Highland Street unit: C
$1,195
1351 Highland Street, Columbus, OH 43201
(614) 557-1340
1 unit available
1 bed
Amenities
On-site laundry, Hardwood floors, Cats allowed, Parking, Recently renovated, and Extra storage
Recently updated units
1257 Dennison Avenue
$1,100
1257 Dennison Avenue, Columbus, OH 43201
(614) 557-1340
1 unit available
1 bed
Amenities
On-site laundry, Hardwood floors, Cats allowed, Walk in closets, Fireplace, and Some paid utils
Recently updated units
1353 Highland Street unit: D
$1,495
1353 Highland Street, Columbus, OH 43201
(614) 557-1340
1 unit available
2 bed
Amenities
On-site laundry, Patio / balcony, Walk in closets, Range, and Refrigerator
Recently updated units
1594 N 4th Street
$1,920
1594 North 4th Street, Columbus, OH 43201
(614) 596-1624
1 unit available
3 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Patio / balcony, Dishwasher, Pet friendly, Parking, Recently renovated + more
Renovated Comfort
Close to amenities and Ohio State University.
This property shines with its convenient proximity to The Ohio State University, Kroger, and the vibrant Short North area, all just moments away. Residents appreciate the hassle-free access to essential shopping and lively entertainment. The 2020 full renovation enhances living with modern appliances, new HVAC, and luxury finishes for an inviting atmosphere.
Recently updated units
1596 N 4th Street
$1,920
1596 North 4th Street, Columbus, OH 43201
(614) 596-1624
1 unit available
3 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Patio / balcony, Dishwasher, Pet friendly, Parking, Recently renovated + more
Campus Convenience
Perfectly located near OSU and essential amenities.
Steps from The Ohio State University, this recently renovated duplex offers seamless access to Kroger and Short North. Residents enjoy modern kitchen appliances, updated HVAC, and new flooring. The property's open floor plan and large common areas with extra storage ensure comfort and functionality. Enjoy free off-street parking and a secure living environment with Nest video doorbells.
Recently updated units
1084 E 16Th Ave
$1,595
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, and Range
Recently updated units
766 N 6th St
$4,498
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
1041 Harrison Park Pl
$4,498
1041 Harrison Park Place, Columbus, OH 43201
(614) 398-2068
1 unit available
4 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Patio / balcony, Hardwood floors, Dishwasher, Pet friendly, Garage + more
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.