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 36
Vera on Broad
$1,015
366 East Broad Street, Columbus, OH 43215
(380) 233-6161
7 units available
Studio • 1 bed • 2 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Patio / balcony, Hardwood floors, Dishwasher, Pet friendly, 24hr maintenance + more
Recently updated units
Verified listing
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1 of 12
StateHouse Highline on 9th - Student Housing
$1,589
41 E 9th Ave, Columbus, OH 43201
(501) 708-4116
Rent Savings
student
16 units available
Studio • 1 bed • 2 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Patio / balcony, Granite counters, Dishwasher, Pet friendly, New construction + more
Prime Location
Steps from OSU, vibrant neighborhoods & modern amenities.
StateHouse Highline on 9th offers a convenient living experience just steps from The Ohio State University and vibrant neighborhoods such as The Short North. Residents appreciate the resort-style pool perfect for relaxation, as well as the 24-hour gym and yoga studio for a healthy lifestyle. With fully furnished apartments featuring granite countertops and stainless steel appliances, modern comfort is assured.
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OSU Gateway 4 bedroom 2 full bath 3 apartment
$3,200
50 East 11th Avenue, Columbus, OH 43201
(380) 324-5031
4 units available
4 bed
Amenities
W/D hookup, Patio / balcony, Dishwasher, Parking, Stainless steel, Air conditioning + more
Prime Location
Conveniently close to High Street and campus.
This property shines with its unbeatable proximity to High Street, providing easy access to campus and the vibrant Gateway area. Residents appreciate the convenience of nearby amenities, within walking distance. Enjoy unique features like in-unit washer and dryer hookups and lighted off-street parking for added convenience.
Recently updated units
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1435 Republic Ave
$1,450
1435 Republic Avenue, Columbus, OH 43211
(330) 632-3482
1 unit available
3 bed
Amenities
W/D hookup, Patio / balcony, Pet friendly, Recently renovated, and Stainless steel
Recently updated units
1557 N. Brooks
$1,350
1557 Brooks Avenue, Columbus, OH 43211
(330) 632-3482
1 unit available
3 bed
Amenities
W/D hookup, Pet friendly, and Fireplace
Recently updated units
252 E Lane Avenue
$5,250
252 East Lane Avenue, Columbus, OH 43201
(326) 444-5539
1 unit available
7 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Patio / balcony, Dishwasher, Pet friendly, Parking, and Air conditioning
Recently updated units
E 3rd Ave 42 GW2
$2,400
42 East 3rd Avenue, Columbus, OH 43201
(614) 299-4110
1 unit available
2 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Patio / balcony, Hardwood floors, Dishwasher, Stainless steel, Air conditioning + more
Recently updated units
348 E 15th Ave
$975
348 East 14th Avenue, Columbus, OH 43201
(222) 222-2222
1 unit available
1 bed
Amenities
Pet friendly, Range, and Refrigerator
Recently updated units
Rare Brick Single Family House On Goodale Park
$4,500
629 Dennison Avenue, Columbus, OH 43215
(614) 299-4110
1 unit available
5 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Patio / balcony, Hardwood floors, Dishwasher, Pet friendly, Garage + more
Recently updated units
Short North / Victorian Village Single Family House!
$5,000
1023 Neil Avenue, Columbus, OH 43201
(614) 299-4110
1 unit available
5 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Patio / balcony, Hardwood floors, Dishwasher, Pet friendly, Parking + more
Recently updated units
769 N. High Street Unit 310
$1,800
769 North High Street, Columbus, OH 43215
(614) 306-9878
1 unit available
2 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Granite counters, Hardwood floors, Dishwasher, Pet friendly, Parking + more
Recently updated units
157 E. Oakland Ave.
$4,320
157 East Oakland Avenue, Columbus, OH 43201
(614) 299-9940
1 unit available
6 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Patio / balcony, Dishwasher, Garage, Recently renovated, Microwave + more
Recently updated units
2026 Summit St.
$800
2026 Summit Street, Columbus, OH 43201
(614) 299-2280
1 unit available
Studio
Amenities
On-site laundry, Parking, Air conditioning, Range, and Refrigerator
Ideal Location
Perfect for OSU Commuters
2026 Summit St. offers an exceptional living experience with its strategic location near The Ohio State University and public transportation, making commuting effortless. Residents enjoy the convenience of on-site laundry, significantly enhancing day-to-day living, while the included off-street parking is a considerable benefit for vehicle owners. The pet-friendly policy welcomes those with furry companions, adding to the property's charm.
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Stunning Short North Single Family House!
$3,500
250 Wilber Avenue, Columbus, OH 43215
(614) 299-4110
1 unit available
4 bed
Amenities
Hardwood floors, Dishwasher, Pet friendly, Parking, Stainless steel, Air conditioning + more
Recently updated units
W Starr Ave 46 CR
$3,400
46 West Starr Avenue, Columbus, OH 43201
(614) 299-4110
1 unit available
4 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Hardwood floors, Dishwasher, Parking, Stainless steel, and Ceiling fan
Recently updated units
Short North - Victorian Village Single Family Brick House
$3,200
60 Smith Place, Columbus, OH 43201
(614) 299-4110
1 unit available
4 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Hardwood floors, Dishwasher, Pet friendly, Garage, Stainless steel + more
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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.