What Are the Best Neighborhoods in Columbus, OH, for Families? (2025)

Our research shows that Dublin ranks as Columbus’ best overall neighborhood for families. Powell takes the lead for top-rated schools, and Westgate stands out as the most affordable family-friendly pick.

Raising a family in Columbus comes with plenty of perks, like excellent schools, expansive parks, and neighborhoods where community still matters. But with so many options, choosing the right one can be tricky, especially if you’re balancing the value of school districts, commute times, and housing costs.

That’s why we’ve narrowed it down to the nine best neighborhoods in Columbus for families, from quiet suburban pockets to master-planned communities brimming with amenities. Whether you're planning your first move or simply need more room to grow, this guide has neighborhood options for every stage of family life.

Which Columbus Neighborhoods Are the Best for Families?

• Best overall: Dublin - Master-planned neighborhoods, splash pads, libraries, and strong schools.
• Best for schools: Powell - A+ schools, beautiful parks, and a charming and walkable downtown.
• Best for community appeal: Bexley - Known for its exceptional public schools and a close-knit community feel just minutes from Downtown Columbus.
• Most communal: Northcrest - A quiet neighborhood with access to parks and single-family homes that won’t break the bank.
• Most walkable: Downtown Columbus - An urban, kid-friendly lifestyle between the Scioto Mile and Columbus Commons.
• Best for outdoor activities: Hilliard Green - Laid-back neighborhood for families who love the proximity to parks, youth sports leagues, and community events.
• Best for green space: Olentangy Commons - Area offering open space, walkable paths, and a calm residential vibe near the Olentangy River.
• Most well-rounded: Worthington - A neighborhood with great schools and a historic downtown that hits the sweet spot between suburban comfort and convenience.
• Most affordable: Westgate - Anchored by Westgate Park and known for neighborhood events and a strong sense of community.

Note: We used internal data and cross-referenced with neighborhood data from Apartments.com and Zumper.com to give you the most accurate snapshot of rents across Columbus, Ohio, as of August 15, 2025. We also referenced data from Niche.com, WalkScore.com, and CrimeGrade.org to help you understand the vibes of each neighborhood as a whole.

Dublin

• Best for: Master-planned neighborhoods and strong schools.
• Public school grade: A+
• Overall Niche grade: A+
• Average two-bedroom rent: $1,762
• Crime grade: B
• Map of Dublin

Dublin is a standout for families thanks to its top-rated schools, including Mary Emma Bailey Elementary and Dublin Jerome High School, plus an extensive park system with swim facilities, splash pads, bike paths, and year-round programming.

The average two-bedroom apartment rents for $1,762, reflecting the value of living in one of the metro’s most sought-after suburbs with an above-average crime grade.

Suburban comfort meets city access here, with The Ohio State University (OSU), the OSU Airport, and Downtown Columbus all within 20 minutes by car. Green spaces like Coffman Park—home to festivals and the Abbey Theater—add to Dublin’s strong sense of community.

Explore our listings in Dublin.

Powell

• Best for: A+ schools and a charming walkable downtown.
• Public school grade: A+
• Overall Niche grade: A+
• Average two-bedroom rent: $1,599
• Crime grade: C+
• Map of Powell

Powell blends small-town charm with top-tier amenities, making it a top pick for families. The average two-bedroom rent of $1,599 offers good value for easy access to attractions like Zoombezi Bay Water Park, the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, and smaller neighborhood parks.

Highly rated schools such as Scioto Ridge Elementary are major draws for parents, while lush green spaces, a walkable downtown, and a well-preserved historic district add to the area’s overall appeal.

Explore our listings in Powell.

Bexley

• Best for: Good public schools, a close-knit community, and easy access to parks.
• Public school grade: A+
• Overall Niche grade: A+
• Average two-bedroom rent: $1,161
• Crime grade: C-
• Map of Bexley

Bexley combines walkable streets, historic homes, and a 10- to 15-minute drive to Downtown Columbus with highly rated schools like Bexley High and Maryland Elementary.

The average two-bedroom rent is $1,161, and residents enjoy large public parks along Alum Creek, complete with trails and playgrounds. The Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens, just minutes away, provides cultural enrichment for all ages.

Explore our listings in Bexley.

Northcrest

• Best for: Access to parks and affordable single-family homes.
• Public school grade: A- (neighborhood close by)
• Overall Niche grade: A (neighborhood close by)
• Average two-bedroom rent: $1,128
• Crime grade: C
• Map of Northcrest

Tucked between the Scioto and Olentangy rivers, Northcrest offers budget-friendly living with an average two-bedroom rent of $1,128.

While the crime rate is average, families have ample access to parks with walking trails, playgrounds, and sports courts, and Henderson Road serves as the neighborhood’s shopping and dining hub.

Located less than five miles north of OSU, it’s also popular with faculty, students, and Buckeye football fans.

Explore our listings in Northcrest.

Downtown Columbus

• Best for: Walkable neighborhood with newer condos and an urban, kid-friendly lifestyle.
• Public school grade: C- (neighborhood close by)
• Overall Niche grade: A- (neighborhood close by)
• Average two-bedroom rent: $2,215
• Crime grade: D
• Map of Downtown Columbus

Families in Downtown Columbus enjoy a mix of newer condos and apartments with a walkable lifestyle where parks, museums, and entertainment are just beyond their doorstep.

While the crime rate is below average and local public schools have a C- rating, two-bedroom apartments rent for about $2,215, and the state capitol, the Scioto Mile, and major venues like Nationwide Arena, the Ohio Theatre, and the Center of Science and Industry are a short walk or drive away.

Proximity to major interstates and John Glenn Columbus International Airport makes getting around for school runs or weekend trips easy.

Explore our listings in Downtown Columbus.

Hilliard Green

• Best for: Proximity to parks in a laid-back neighborhood.
• Public school grade: A-
• Overall Niche grade: A
• Average two-bedroom rent: $1,281
• Crime grade: B
• Map of Hilliard Green

Hilliard Green combines suburban calm with an above-average crime rating and commuter convenience thanks to quick access to major interstates.

The average two-bedroom rent of $1,281 balances affordability with proximity to schools like Hilliard Memorial and amenities such as shopping centers, parks, and golf courses. Families can enjoy green spaces like Roger A. Reynolds Municipal Park or join in regular community events.

Explore our listings in Hilliard Green.

Olentangy Commons

• Best for: Commuters who want access to open space and a calm residential vibe.
• Public school grade: C-
• Overall Niche grade: A-Average two-bedroom rent: $1,677
• Crime grade: C-
• Map of Olentangy Commons

Located just off Olentangy Freeway in north Columbus, Olentangy Commons offers quick commutes to OSU and Downtown Columbus.

Nestled against its namesake river, Olentangy Commons has an average two-bedroom rent of $1,677 that comes with access to nearby shopping, dining, and outdoor spaces like the Anheuser-Busch Sports Park.

With a C- school and crime grades, this neighborhood is best suited for families seeking a central, connected location with a residential vibe.

Explore our listings in Olentangy Commons.

Worthington

• Best for: Good schools and a historic downtown.
• Public school grade: A
• Overall Niche grade: A+
• Average two-bedroom rent: $1,523
• Crime grade: D
• Map of Worthington

Worthington* *blends New England charm with central Ohio convenience. Two-bedroom apartments rent for an average of $1,523, which is less than the citywide average of $1,607, and the area is also close to top schools like Phoenix Middle.

A walkable historic downtown, the Worthington Farmers Market, and the Olentangy Trail provide plenty of options for recreation and community engagement.

Explore our listings near Worthington.

Westgate

• Best for: Neighborhood events, and a strong sense of community anchored by Westgate Park.
• Public school grade: C-
• Overall Niche grade: B
• Average two-bedroom rent: $1,014
• Crime grade: D
• Map of Westgate

Located six miles west of Downtown Columbus, Westgate is known for its pretty tree-lined streets and close-knit feel. The average two-bedroom rent of $1,014 makes it one of the city’s more affordable family options.

Sullivant Avenue, the neighborhood’s main thoroughfare, is the gateway to frequent bus stops for easy public transit, while drivers have quick access to Interstate 270.

Although the crime rate is lower in some other urban areas, the mix of playgrounds, green spaces like Westgate Park, and budget-friendly housing makes Westgate appealing for young families on a budget.

Explore our listings in Westgate.

Make Your Move to Columbus

Looking to find your next home in the best neighborhoods in Columbus for families? Whether you’re drawn to top-rated schools, proximity to open green spaces, or a quick commute, there’s a spot that fits your family’s needs.

When you’re ready to find your match, take the personalized Apartment List quiz and see apartments that fit. With us, you’ll spend five minutes and save 50 hours searching.

Frequently Asked Questions About Columbus’ Best Neighborhoods for Families

What are the best neighborhoods in Columbus for families?

Top family-friendly neighborhoods in Columbus include Dublin, Powell, and Hilliard Green. These areas are known for high-rated schools, low crime rates, and easy access to parks and community amenities.

What’s the best Columbus suburb for families?

Dublin consistently ranks as the best master-planned suburb for families. Powell has top-rated public schools and an average two-bedroom rent of $1,599. It also offers access to family-friendly amenities like the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, making it ideal for safety, education, and recreation.

Where is the safest place to raise a family in Columbus?

Dublin and Hilliard Green are among the safest neighborhoods for families in Columbus, both earning an above-average crime rating. They also feature strong school zones and plenty of family-friendly green spaces.

What suburbs of Columbus have the best schools?

Powell, Dublin, and Bexley offer some of the highest-rated public schools near Columbus. Both areas consistently perform above state averages and have strong parent engagement.

Which Columbus suburb has the most outdoor activities?

Hilliard Green and Olentangy Commons are some of the best Columbus suburbs for outdoor family fun, thanks to miles of open space, walkable paths and proximity to parks and community events.

What’s the most affordable family-friendly suburb near Columbus?

Westgate is one of the most affordable suburbs for families. It combines good schools, easy access to parks and walking trails like Northcrest Park, with nearby Henderson Road for shopping and dining options.

What’s the most walkable Columbus neighborhood?

Downtown stands out for its walkability, with a walk score of 82, a transit score of 62, and a bike score of 81. Families can stroll to the Scioto Mile and major venues like the Nationwide Arena while being a short walk or drive to shops, restaurants, and parks.

What’s the quietest Columbus neighborhood?

Olentangy Commons is a quiet, family-friendly area in Columbus. Here, you’re close to the Olentangy River, with access to nearby shopping, dining, and outdoor spaces like the Anheuser-Busch Sports Park.