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 28
1185 E 22nd Ave
$1,400
1185 East 22nd Avenue, Columbus, OH 43211
(380) 666-3551
1 unit available
3 bed
Amenities
Garage, Air conditioning, and Carpet
Recently updated units
1 of 16
463 N High Street
$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
1116 Mt. Pleasant Avenue
$1,845
1116 Mount Pleasant Avenue, Columbus, OH 43201
(614) 294-6097
1 unit available
2 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Hardwood floors, Dishwasher, Parking, Recently renovated, Air conditioning + more
Recently updated units
1416 N 5th Street
$1,495
1416 North 5th Street, Columbus, OH 43201
(614) 294-6097
1 unit available
3 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Parking, and Air conditioning
Recently updated units
1803 N 4th St
$1,250
1803 North 4th Street, Columbus, OH 43201
(380) 235-5090
1 unit available
2 bed
Amenities
Pet friendly
Recently updated units
3199 Maize road
$1,150
3199 Maize Road, Columbus, OH 43224
(380) 235-5090
1 unit available
2 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry
Recently updated units
Renovated & Move-In Ready 2BR/1BA Home
$1,200
2942 Atwood Terrace, Columbus, OH 43224
(380) 267-8421
1 unit available
2 bed
Amenities
W/D hookup, Recently renovated, Air conditioning, and E-payments
Recently updated units
366 E. 13th Avenue
$2,600
366 East 13th Avenue, Columbus, OH 43201
(937) 717-3636
1 unit available
4 bed
Amenities
W/D hookup, Patio / balcony, Dishwasher, Pet friendly, Parking, Air conditioning + more
Recently updated units
90 Normandy Avenue
$3,000
90 Normandy Avenue, Columbus, OH 43215
(614) 725-7755
1 unit available
2 bed
Amenities
Parking and Recently renovated
Recently updated units
2027 N 4th Street
$2,000
2027 North 4th Street, Columbus, OH 43201
(614) 282-7912
1 unit available
5 bed
Amenities
Patio / balcony, Dishwasher, Garage, Recently renovated, Fireplace, Extra storage + more
Recently updated units
1116 Hilo Lane
$2,000
1116 Hilo Lane, Grandview Heights, OH 43212
(614) 783-5502
1 unit available
1 bed
Amenities
On-site laundry, Patio / balcony, Hardwood floors, Carport, Recently renovated, Basketball court + more
Recently updated units
104 Mcmillen Ave
$1,699
104 McMillen Avenue, Columbus, OH 43201
(614) 304-1734
1 unit available
3 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Dishwasher, Pet friendly, Parking, and Air conditioning
Recently updated units
1502 W 6th Ave
$1,450
1502 West 6th Avenue, Columbus, OH 43212
(614) 486-2933
1 unit available
2 bed
Amenities
W/D hookup, Dishwasher, Cats allowed, Garage, Air conditioning, and Microwave
Recently updated units
1638 Indianola Avenue
$1,750
1638 Indianola Avenue, Columbus, OH 43201
(326) 444-5539
1 unit available
3 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Patio / balcony, Dishwasher, Pet friendly, and Refrigerator
Prime Location
Convenient Near High Street and OSU Campus
Nestled just a block from High Street, this property offers unbeatable convenience with close proximity to The Ohio State University campus. Residents praise the location for its easy access to shops, restaurants, and entertainment. The neighborhood is dog-friendly and very walkable, complemented by nearby parks and bike trails.
Recently updated units
2097 Summit Street
$1,999
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
1296 Courtland Avenue Apt B
$1,345
1296 Courtland Avenue, Columbus, OH 43201
(614) 294-6097
1 unit available
2 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Dishwasher, Pet friendly, Parking, Recently renovated, Air conditioning + more
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.