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

The Lofts at 44
$2,700
45 North Pearl Street, Columbus, OH 43215
(614) 224-4331
1 unit available
2 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Dishwasher, Range, and Refrigerator
Recently updated units
4 or 5 Bedroom Right off of High St - OSU Campus
$3,650
73 East Maynard Avenue, Columbus, OH 43202
(614) 802-5990
1 unit available
5 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Patio / balcony, Hardwood floors, Dishwasher, Parking, Recently renovated + more
Spacious Elegance
Spacious Living with Modern Features
Experience the charm of a large townhouse with modern amenities, located right off High St. Residents praise the spacious bedrooms and elegant hardwood floors. Enjoy the convenience of a modern kitchen and in-unit laundry, plus hassle-free parking with four dedicated spaces.
Recently updated units
Huge Brick House in Victorian Village/Short North, Beautiful Woodwork 3 Car Garage and Swimming pool
$4,800
63 Smith Place, Columbus, OH 43201
(614) 299-4110
1 unit available
5 bed
Amenities
Patio / balcony, Hardwood floors, Dishwasher, Pet friendly, Garage, and Pool
Recently updated units
2 Bedroom/1 Bath Garden Style Apartment available now!
$1,150
2669 Medary Avenue, Columbus, OH 43202
(614) 488-0671
1 unit available
2 bed
Amenities
On-site laundry, Pet friendly, Parking, Ceiling fan, Range, and Refrigerator
Recently updated units
1871-1873 Cleveland Ave.
$1,195
1871-1873 Cleveland Avenue, Columbus, OH 43211
(614) 706-7107
1 unit available
3 bed
Amenities
Air conditioning
Recently updated units
NEWLY RENOVATED NORTH CAMPUS - 6 BEDROOM 4 FULL BATHROOMS. THIS ONE HAS IT ALL!
$5,220
246 East Patterson Avenue, Columbus, OH 43202
(614) 989-1866
1 unit available
6 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Patio / balcony, Hardwood floors, Dishwasher, Parking, Recently renovated + more
Renovated Beauty
Charming North Campus townhouse perfect for college memories.
Discover the allure of this newly renovated townhouse in the heart of Old North Columbus. With its spacious bedrooms and a beautiful large front porch, the property is perfect for relaxation and entertaining. Residents have been delighted with the elegant hardwood floors that enhance the living experience.
Recently updated units
Large 4 Bedroom North Campus Townhouse - 1st house from High Street
$2,800
21 East Blake Avenue, Columbus, OH 43202
(614) 802-5990
1 unit available
4 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Patio / balcony, Hardwood floors, Dishwasher, Parking, Recently renovated + more
Student Oasis
Perfect for Students, Close and Convenient
This spacious 4-bedroom townhouse is ideally located for students, just a short walk from The Ohio State University. Residents love the large bedrooms, which offer ample personal space and comfort. The home's expansive porches and yards create perfect spots for social gatherings or outdoor study sessions.
Recently updated units
1208 East 16th Avenue
$1,750
1208 East 16th Avenue, Columbus, OH 43211
(614) 654-6976
1 unit available
4 bed
Amenities
W/D hookup, Patio / balcony, Hardwood floors, Pet friendly, Garage, Recently renovated + more
Recently updated units
106 N High St APT 103
$1,800
106 North High Street, Columbus, OH 43215
(614) 679-5273
1 unit available
2 bed
Amenities
On-site laundry, Granite counters, Hardwood floors, Pet friendly, Recently renovated, and Stainless steel
Prime Location
Regal living in Downtown Columbus.
Experience a regal lifestyle in Downtown Columbus, with Atrium Lofts offering modern design combined with stylish features like high ceilings and hardwood floors. Enjoy the convenience of living in a popular neighborhood filled with dynamic shops, galleries, and restaurants all within walking distance. Residents appreciate the secure parking and additional amenities that elevate daily living.
Recently updated units
1414 N 5th Street
$1,495
1414 North 5th Street, Columbus, OH 43201
(614) 294-6097
1 unit available
3 bed
Recently updated units
30 E Hudson St
$1,100
30 East Hudson Street, Columbus, OH 43202
(614) 499-8375
1 unit available
2 bed
Recently updated units
925 Dennison Avenue - 2
$2,195
925 Dennison Avenue, Columbus, OH 43201
(614) 489-8199
1 unit available
1 bed
Amenities
Parking
Recently updated units
981 Highland Street - C
$1,200
981 Highland Street, Columbus, OH 43201
(614) 349-8159
1 unit available
1 bed
Recently updated units
108 West Patterson Avenue
$2,100
108 West Patterson Avenue, Columbus, OH 43202
(614) 477-1055
1 unit available
3 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Patio / balcony, Hardwood floors, Dishwasher, Parking, Recently renovated + more
Recently updated units
16-24 Buttles Avenue - 18B
$795
16-24 Buttles Avenue, Columbus, OH 43215
(614) 419-4766
1 unit available
Studio
Recently updated units
444 North Front Street - 1Unit #311
$1,595
444 North Front Street, Columbus, OH 43215
(614) 300-3019
1 unit available
1 bed
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.