Ohio State University Off-Campus Housing (2024)

Renting OSU Off-Campus Housing

Any Buckeye daydreaming of moving out of the dorms, and into one of the many great apartments or houses for rent in Columbus, Ohio, near campus needs to know this: If you want to make that dream a reality, they need to start searching a year ahead - because that’s when the OSU off-campus housing hunt begins. You may think that sounds a little extreme, but right when most students move-in to their new places in August, they immediately start searching for their next rental.

Don’t believe us? Well, we did a bit of digging and found that there is a peak in searches for Columbus apartments and houses near OSU during September and October. The ambitious students start signing leases in November for the next fall.

If you don’t think you can make up your mind on where you want to live by November, don’t worry - most OSU students start signing leases in between December and February. If you wait till after February to find a place, you will still be able to find apartments and houses for rent near OSU … just with a little longer commute. On the bright side, the farther from campus you get the more affordable rentals tend to be (usually).

2020 Rent Prices in Columbus, OH

Due to the new OSU sophom*ore living requirement, rent prices in Columbus, OH will be changing. Before you start freaking out that your rent is going to skyrocket, remember that not all change is bad. You’ll actually start seeing the rent for apartments and houses in Columbus, Ohio to start to decrease … eventually. If you’re wondering why rent prices on OSU off-campus housing will be going down in the coming years, it’s because there will be fewer students searching for housing near OSU, which means that the market will become less competitive - aka if landlords want you to sign a lease, they’ll be trying to underbid each other. Again, that change may take a few years to surface. Regardless, there will always be plenty of affordable housing options in Columbus depending on how far away from campus you’re willing to live.

Around campus, you’ll see a majority of the apartments and houses for rent near OSU are four-bedroom units - four-bedroom rentals can vary in price depending on how many bells and whistles you need at your next place. If you’re looking to save as many of your pennies as you can, three-bedroom rentals in Columbus have been the cheapest options per person over the last few years. Generally speaking, the more roommates you have, the cheaper your rent is going to be. If money is no object OR you’re just tired of having all your mac n’ cheese stolen, then you’re going to end up paying a good chunk of change for your own space.

How much do studio apartments near Ohio State University cost?
The average rent for a studio apartment in Columbus, OH is $665.

How much do 1 bedroom apartments near Ohio State University cost?
The average rent for a 1 bedroom apartment in Columbus, OH is $761.

How much do 2 bedroom apartments near Ohio State University cost?
The average rent for a 2 bedroom apartment in Columbus, OH is $583.

How much do 3 bedroom apartments near Ohio State University cost?
The average rent for a 3 bedroom apartment in Columbus, OH is $484.

How much do 4 bedroom apartments near Ohio State University cost?
The average rent for a 4 bedroom apartment in Columbus, OH is $560.
*The reason you will see a jump in prices for four-bedroom apartments in Columbus, OH, is because there are more higher-priced luxury apartments available than four-bedrooms at a lower price point.

How much do 5+ bedroom apartments near Ohio State University?
While there will be some differences in price points depending on if you’re looking for a 5 or a 10 bedroom rental, the average rent for a 5+ bedroom apartment in Columbus, OH is $472.

Above Photo Credit ToSam Howzit

Life at Ohio State University

As a Buckeye, it’s essential that you attend ALL THE SPORTS MATCHES, especially football games.

But sometimes you need to get away from your schoolwork grind when it isn’t football season and what’s better than relaxing on the main oval lawn? The downtown district and brewery district have many great places to spend the afternoon away from campus. And again, make sure you’re cheering from Block O at an Ohio State football game every fall.

Dining/Bars in Columbus, OH

A good time in Columbus starts with a meal at Cane’s Chicken. If you’re in need for a drink after Cane’s try some of the student favorite bars:

• Too's
• O Patio
• Lodge Bar

Many students say Larry’s has the cheapest drinks, but we’ll let your bank account be the judge. After your late night and everything is closed, Buckeye Donuts and Insomnia Cookies can fill your sugar cravings until three A.M.

Things To Do inColumbus, OH

Stepping outdoors is always a breath of fresh air, but some activities cost money, planning, equipment, and technical skills. Fortunately, the outdoor adventure center located in the adventure recreation centerprovided by OSU has you covered.

Inside they have an expansive climbing center where you can practice for your Everest climb. Guided trips and clinics are provided through this center as well requiring you just to show up. If you’re a true adventurer, they do have equipment rentals leaving no need for any large initial investment.