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

331 B Chittenden Ave
$800
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
1291 Forsythe Ave
$1,300
1291 Forsythe Avenue, Columbus, OH 43201
(614) 488-0644
1 unit available
2 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Dishwasher, Pet friendly, Parking, and Air conditioning
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
1145 North High Street
$5,500
1145 North High Street, Columbus, OH 43201
(614) 397-7875
1 unit available
2 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Patio / balcony, Hardwood floors, Dishwasher, Pet friendly, Parking + more
Luxury Condo
Luxury living in Columbus' vibrant Short North.
Experience luxury living at The Jackson on High in Columbus' Short North. This condo offers modern open floor plans with high-end finishes, like granite countertops and stainless-steel appliances. Enjoy the vibrant neighborhood with dining, shopping, and entertainment just steps away. Relax in the rooftop pool with stunning city views.
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!
$5,500
1023 Neil Avenue, Columbus, OH 43201
(614) 299-4110
1 unit available
4 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Patio / balcony, Hardwood floors, Dishwasher, Pet friendly, Parking + more
Recently updated units
BEAUTIFUL 2 Bedroom, 1 bath with Renovations in the heart of Clintonville available June 1! SEE IT TODAY!
$1,399
3185 Dorris Avenue, Columbus, OH 43202
(614) 928-3000
1 unit available
2 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Granite counters, Dishwasher, Parking, Recently renovated, Stainless steel + more
Recently updated units
769 N. High Street Unit 310
$2,030
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
4-5 BR HOUSE on Frambes close to High St
$3,000
93 Frambes Avenue, Columbus, OH 43201
(614) 802-5990
1 unit available
4 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Parking, and Air conditioning
Recently updated units
106 N High Street unit: 401
$2,350
106 North High Street, Columbus, OH 43215
(614) 419-3011
1 unit available
2 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Hardwood floors, Dishwasher, Garage, Elevator, Extra storage + more
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
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
445 Oakland Park Avenue
$3,250
445 Oakland Park Avenue, Columbus, OH 43214
(614) 581-4244
1 unit available
3 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Patio / balcony, Dishwasher, Pet friendly, Parking, Recently renovated + more
Recently updated units
Updated 3 Bedroom Home with Fenced Yard
$1,475
771 East Tulane Road, Columbus, OH 43211
(614) 706-5906
1 unit available
3 bed
Amenities
W/D hookup, Garage, Recently renovated, and Air conditioning
Recently updated units
Three Bedroom One Bathroom Double
$1,100
1319 North 5th Street, Columbus, OH 43201
(614) 706-7107
1 unit available
3 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry and Cats allowed
Recently updated units
463 N High Street unit: 5D
$1,350
463 North High Street, Columbus, OH 43215
(216) 215-2487
1 unit available
1 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Granite counters, Hardwood floors, Dishwasher, Garage, Elevator + more
Downtown Charm
Charming blend of historic and modern downtown.
Discover an enchanting retreat at 463 N High Street, nestled within the heart of downtown Columbus. Residents cherish the blend of charming original hardwood floors and sleek modern amenities, as well as perks like an in-unit washer and dryer and included parking. Plus, the building's location offers unparalleled access to celebrated restaurants and attractions.
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.