Ohio's capital is probably best known as the seat of Ohio State University – the third largest university in the country with more than 56,000 students. But this college town is also a city in its own right, bustling with businesses, lively neighborhoods and cultural diversity, and located in the very center of the state. Here's the scoop to help you find Columbus apartments that fit your budget and tastes:
The basics
The cost of living in Columbus is lower than the national average, and the vacancy rate is pretty high at about 5.5 percent. The average rent across all housing types in Columbus is about $720 per month, while one-bedrooms cost $690 on average and two-bedrooms cost approximately $820. The city proper is relatively compact, at 223 square miles, but a car is a necessity here. When planning your move, consider that the Columbus area has about 17 colleges, so moving in the fall when all of the students are moving in might not be ideal. Also, like other Midwestern cities, you're likely to find lower rental rates here during the chilly winter months.
The neighborhoods
Columbus as a whole is great for young professionals, and many people end up staying to work at the four Fortune 500 companies headquartered here. These are some of the best neighborhoods for young people:
Insider tips