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

E Patterson 77 ACM
$3,550
77 East Patterson Avenue, Columbus, OH 43202
(380) 246-4449
1 unit available
5 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Hardwood floors, Dishwasher, Parking, Air conditioning, and Range
Recently updated units
Verified listing
Verified
BEAUTIFUL RENOVATED HOME
$2,860
2403 Summit Street, Columbus, OH 43202
(614) 698-1512
1 unit available
4 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Patio / balcony, Hardwood floors, Dishwasher, Garage, Recently renovated + more
Modern Comfort
Beautifully Renovated Home in Quiet Neighborhood
This beautifully renovated home features a contemporary kitchen with modern appliances and ample counter space, drawing praise from residents. Spacious bedrooms ensure comfortable living, with a third-floor room offering even more space. A fenced-in backyard and two-car garage add to the privacy and convenience of this lovely home located in a peaceful north campus area.
Recently updated units
Verified listing
Verified
5 Bedroom House - Walking distance from Central Campus
$3,750
2015 Summit Street, Columbus, OH 43201
(380) 207-0723
1 unit available
5 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Patio / balcony, Dishwasher, Pet friendly, Parking, and Range
Recently updated units
Verified listing
Verified
2267 Homestead Dr
$1,600
2267 Homestead Drive, Columbus, OH 43211
(614) 502-2619
1 unit available
3 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Pet friendly, Garage, Air conditioning, Carpet, and Range
Recently updated units
331 C Chittenden Ave
$740
331 Chittenden Avenue, Columbus, OH 43201
(614) 502-2619
1 unit available
1 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Pet friendly, and Extra storage
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
1107 Highland Street
$3,500
1107 Highland Street, Columbus, OH 43201
(216) 315-3868
1 unit available
3 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Dishwasher, Pet friendly, Garage, Recently renovated, and Air conditioning
Recently updated units
1511 Ashland Ave
$1,600
1511 Ashland Avenue, Columbus, OH 43212
(614) 488-0644
1 unit available
2 bed
Amenities
W/D hookup, Hardwood floors, Dishwasher, Pet friendly, Garage, and Recently renovated
Charming Community
Welcoming neighborhood with supportive community and pet-friendly option.
Situated in the popular Grandview Heights, this apartment offers a welcoming and supportive community environment. With both cats and dogs allowed, pet lovers will feel right at home. Residents benefit from a clean and well-maintained environment in a friendly neighborhood.
Recently updated units
991 Manor Ln
$1,250
991 Manor Lane, Columbus, OH 43221
(614) 809-8978
1 unit available
1 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Granite counters, Dishwasher, Parking, Walk in closets, and Pool
Recently updated units
2885 Atwood Terrace
$1,150
2885 Atwood Terrace, Columbus, OH 43224
(614) 975-9073
1 unit available
2 bed
Amenities
Patio / balcony, Dishwasher, Parking, Recently renovated, Range, and Refrigerator
Recently updated units
250 W Spring Street unit: 512
$6,500
250 West Spring Street, Columbus, OH 43215
(614) 725-7755
1 unit available
2 bed
Amenities
Patio / balcony, Dishwasher, Garage, Walk in closets, Gym, and Pool
Recently updated units
345 Chittenden Avenue unit: C
$1,450
345 Chittenden Avenue, Columbus, OH 43201
(614) 362-2231
1 unit available
3 bed
Amenities
Patio / balcony, Dishwasher, Recently renovated, Microwave, Range, and Refrigerator
Recently updated units
5 Bedroom on OSU Campus
$3,295
1994 Summit Street, Columbus, OH 43201
(614) 226-6841
1 unit available
5 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Patio / balcony, Hardwood floors, Dishwasher, Parking, Recently renovated + more
Recently updated units
Modern Comfort Meets Timeless Charm on 1519 Hudson Ave!
$1,585
1519 East Hudson Street, Columbus, OH 43211
(614) 310-4132
1 unit available
3 bed
Amenities
Pet friendly, Garage, Recently renovated, Stainless steel, and Fireplace
Recently updated units
381 Alden Avenue
$2,850
381 Alden Avenue, Columbus, OH 43201
(614) 636-5975
1 unit available
5 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Patio / balcony, Granite counters, Dishwasher, Pet friendly, Fireplace + more
Recently updated units
4 bedroom 1 1/2 bath single family house with yard.
$3,600
65 East Norwich Avenue, Columbus, OH 43201
(614) 294-7067
1 unit available
4 bed
Amenities
W/D hookup, Patio / balcony, Hardwood floors, 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.