Living in Columbus, OH
Living in Columbus, OH
Columbus, OH Renter’s Guide
As of June 2025, the median rent in Columbus is $1,310—up 0.8% month-over-month and 1.9% year-over-year. One-bedrooms average $1,131, while two-bedrooms go for $1,354.
Prices are rising faster than the national average, but Columbus still ranks among the more affordable large cities. With steady demand and a lower cost of living, it's a strong choice for renters looking to save without sacrificing access to jobs, culture, and convenience.
Not sure where to start? Take our apartment quiz to get matched with rentals that fit your lifestyle.
Renter Satisfaction in Columbus, OH
| Category | Grade |
|---|---|
| Overall satisfaction | C+ |
| Recreational activities | A- |
| Social life | A- |
| State and local taxes | B |
| Safety and crime rate | B |
| Affordability | B+ |
| Weather | C |
| Public transit | A- |
| Jobs and career opportunities | A |
| Quality of schools | B+ |
Apartment List’s Renter Satisfaction Survey reveals how renters feel about life in Columbus—and what stands out. Based on 45,000+ responses nationwide, the results highlight where Columbus delivers and where it still has room to grow.
Columbus renters rated the city a C+ overall. The biggest strengths? Jobs, pet-friendliness, and public transit all earned A-range marks. But weather and overall satisfaction pulled down the average, suggesting the city works well on paper—even if it doesn’t always win hearts.
Key findings in Columbus include:
- Renters gave Columbus a C+ for overall satisfaction.
- Jobs, pet-friendliness, and public transit all received A grades.
- Weather earned the lowest score (C), making it a common complaint.
- Social life and recreational activities earned A- scores, indicating a lively, engaging environment.
- Commute time and affordability also scored well (A- and B+).
- Compared to other major Ohio cities, Columbus outperforms Cleveland and Cincinnati on most measures.
Columbus, OH Renter Reviews
- "It’s a great city with big city entertainment and small city safety and traffic." -Anon.
- "I love how many things there are to do, but the cost of living is high." -Julie H.
- "There’s always something to do and nothing is too far away. Great communities with friendly people." -Karl D.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are rents dropping in Columbus?
No. According to Apartment List’s most recent rental report, rents increased 0.8% last month and are up 1.9% year-over-year.
Is Columbus affordable?
Affordability remains one of Columbus’s strong suits. Nearby areas like Whitehall ($1,000 for a 1-bedroom) and Grove City ($1,090) are often more affordable than the city average. On the higher end, neighborhoods like Short North and German Village tend to come with premium pricing.
What is the cheapest area in Columbus to live in?
Neighborhoods like South Linden and Hilltop are among the most affordable in the Columbus area.
What is the best area in Columbus to live in?
Popular neighborhoods for renters in Columbus include Victorian Village, Italian Village, and Harrison West.—known for walkability, culture, and easy access to downtown.
What are traffic and public transit like in Columbus?
Columbus earned strong grades for both commute time and public transit. COTA (Central Ohio Transit Authority) buses cover most of the city, and drive times are generally manageable. Rush hour tends to peak between 7–9 a.m. and 4–6 p.m., but overall, renters report shorter commutes compared to larger metros.
Is it cheaper to rent or own in Columbus?
With average monthly homeowner costs at $1,553 and median rent at $1,310, renting is still the more affordable choice for many Columbus residents.
What’s the best time to find an apartment in Columbus?
Rent trends in Columbus show steady increases through spring and summer. January tends to be the most affordable month, while prices peak in warmer months like June and July. If you're looking to save, winter is often your best window for deals.
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