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

3 Bedroom 1 Bathroom Single Family Home with yard
$1,300
1218 East 23rd Avenue, Columbus, OH 43211
(614) 656-6667
1 unit available
3 bed
Amenities
Pet friendly and Recently renovated
Recently updated units
Charming 1-Bedroom Apartment with Exposed Brick, Hardwood Floors Updated Kitchen
$1,450
4 Clark Place, Columbus, OH 43201
(614) 362-3030
1 unit available
1 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Granite counters, Hardwood floors, Pet friendly, Recently renovated, and Stainless steel
Recently updated units
30 East Maynard Ave
$2,775
30 East Maynard Avenue, Columbus, OH 43202
(614) 636-5975
1 unit available
5 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Patio / balcony, Dishwasher, Pet friendly, Garage, Coffee bar + more
Recently updated units
Prime Location 2-Bedroom, 1.5-Bath Condominium for Rent!
$1,500
996 Chatham Lane, Columbus, OH 43221
(614) 405-2340
1 unit available
2 bed
Amenities
Patio / balcony, Dishwasher, Pool, Air conditioning, Concierge, Microwave + more
Recently updated units
2234 Hamilton Ave
Ask for price
2234 Hamilton Avenue, Columbus, OH 43211
(614) 989-9968
Contact for Availability
Amenities
W/D hookup and Parking
Beautiful Six Bedroom House Just Outside The Hustle and Bustle of OSU Campus!
$3,700
1966 North 4th Street, Columbus, OH 43201
(614) 299-4110
1 unit available
6 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Hardwood floors, Dishwasher, Pet friendly, Parking, Stainless steel + more
Recently updated units
4 Bedroom North Campus Newly Remodeled House with 2 Decks and Patio
$2,200
214 East Patterson 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
Modern Charm
Renovated gem in Old North Columbus area.
Discover this beautifully remodeled home in North Campus. Featuring modern renovations with a new kitchen and baths, this is a standout option in Old North Columbus. Residents praise the elegant hardwood floors and convenient in-unit amenities like free off-street parking and washer-dryer.
Recently updated units
2552 Renwood Place
$1,275
2552 Renwood Place, Columbus, OH 43211
(888) 655-3488
1 unit available
3 bed
Amenities
Pet friendly, Recently renovated, Air conditioning, Concierge, Internet access, and Range
Recently updated units
Renovated Spacious 4 Bedroom Home Available for Pre-Lease!
$1,950
2758 Beulah Road, Columbus, OH 43211
(614) 385-7161
1 unit available
4 bed
Amenities
W/D hookup, Dishwasher, Pet friendly, Garage, Recently renovated, Stainless steel + more
Recently updated units
1080 Mt. Pleasant Avenue
$1,595
1080 Mount Pleasant Avenue, Columbus, OH 43201
(614) 618-3151
1 unit available
3 bed
Amenities
W/D hookup, Patio / balcony, Dishwasher, Pet friendly, Parking, and Recently renovated
Recently updated units
976 E 26th Ave
$1,200
976 East 26th Avenue, Columbus, OH 43211
(330) 632-3482
1 unit available
3 bed
Amenities
W/D hookup, Pet friendly, and Parking
Recently updated units
174 E 11th Avenue
$1,600
174 East 11th Avenue, Columbus, OH 43201
(326) 444-5539
1 unit available
4 bed
Amenities
On-site laundry, Patio / balcony, Hardwood floors, Pet friendly, Parking, and Air conditioning
Convenient Location
Prime spot near High Street and Ohio State University.
This property boasts a fantastic location near the vibrant High Street, offering easy access to a wide array of shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues. Ohio State University is just a stone's throw away, ideal for students seeking nearby amenities. The spacious front porch and rear deck provide delightful areas for relaxation and social gatherings.
Recently updated units
925 Ingleside Avenue
$1,825
925 Ingleside Avenue, Columbus, OH 43215
(205) 644-0234
1 unit available
2 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Patio / balcony, Granite counters, Dishwasher, Pet friendly, Parking + more
Recently updated units
2097 Summit Street
$2,500
2097 Summit Street, Columbus, OH 43201
(326) 444-5539
1 unit available
6 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Patio / balcony, Dishwasher, Pet friendly, Parking, and Air conditioning
Recently updated units
1539 Doten Ave
$1,499
1539 Doten Avenue, Columbus, OH 43212
(614) 304-1734
1 unit available
1 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Hardwood floors, Pet friendly, Recently renovated, and Air conditioning
Recently updated units
2592 Grasmere Avenue
$1,500
2592 Grasmere Avenue, Columbus, OH 43211
(888) 659-9596 ext. 5933475
1 unit available
3 bed
Amenities
W/D hookup, Patio / balcony, Granite counters, Pet friendly, Parking, and Stainless steel
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.