Apartments for Rent in Columbus, OH(4,335 Rentals)

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Columbus, OH Local Guide

Photo of Justin Habersaat - Editing Staff
Written By:
Justin Habersaat
Editing Staff

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Columbus Overview

Columbus, the Ohio state capital, falls within the top 20 largest cities in the entire United States in terms of population. This dynamic town is full of Midwestern down-to-earth, friendly people, who often make locals feel welcomed and treated like family. Life in Columbus apartments also offer residents an engaged community full of fun alongside interesting places to eat, shop, and to enjoy the arts or a night on the town. In addition, Columbus is home to THE Ohio State University, which draws students from all over the country to this Midwest hub of energy.

What is the history of Columbus?

Columbus was the first founded by the Mound Builders Indian tribe. Then in 1700's explorers rediscovered the area and in 1797 named it Franklinton. By 1812, Columbus was the state capital and renamed. The city grew over the years due to the development of transportation outlets including a feeder canal that made its way to the Ohio Canal in 1832 and the National Road in 1833, and finally, the railroad came to town in 1850.

How is the weather in Columbus?

Like most Midwestern cities, Columbus enjoys four diverse seasons. The summers are warm, but not hot with an average temperature of 73 degrees Fahrenheit in July which allows for plenty of nice weather to enjoy the outdoors all summer long. The winters are colder with an average temperature of 24 degrees Fahrenheit in January. You can also expect snow during the winter which will allow you to take advantage of winter outdoor activities.

How do I get around town?

There are many transportation options for those living in apartments in Columbus. If you enjoy riding a bike to work, the CoGo network provides over 300 bicycles and 30 stations throughout downtown Columbus. These bikes are available year round and 24 hours a day. In addition, the Central Ohio Transit Authority, COTA, does have a bus system that serves Franklin County, as well as parts of Fairfield, Licking, Delaware, and Union Counties. If you don't live in the downtown area, bus transportation or a car will be necessary to get around. In addition, Columbus is home to the Port Columbus International Airport.

What is the Columbus commute like?

For those living in Columbus apartments and homes, the commute to work is one of the fastest in the country for a metro area even though most residents, 82% drive to work. The longest stretch takes about 23 minutes. Major highways include the I-70, I-71, I-670, Rt. 315, and Rt. 33. All of these roads do have some stop and go traffic as people make their way into the city.

What are the local media outlets?

The Columbus Dispatch is the major newspaper in Columbus but it's not the only one. Residents can also receive news and information from the Bellefontaine Examiner and the Circleville Herald. Popular radio stations include WOSU - Ohio State University radio, WQIO - Adult Contemporary, WXMG - Urban Contemporary, WLVQ - Classic Rock, and WCLT - Country.

Why live in Columbus, OH?

There's a lot to love about Columbus. It's got a thriving economy and great neighborhoods like the German Village, Merion Village, and the Arena District. From the artsy, hip culture of the Short North district, to the sports and entertainment vibe in the Arena District, there is a little something for everyone here. For college sports fans, Ohio State University serves up great football and basketball. Add in a low cost of living, and those looking for apartments in Columbus have found a true gem of a city.

What Columbus landmarks should I see?

As Columbus has a lot of history, there are a lot of historical landmarks to be found here. From the Ohio Statehouse's architecture and self-guided tour, to the Jeffrey Mansion which also includes a park that is open to the public, there are plenty of sights to be seen. Some other historical landmarks that you shouldn't miss are the Walhalla Ravine, the Kelton House, and Shrum Mound.

What is there to do around Columbus?

It's always nice to get our of the Columbus apartments you've been spending all your time in and find a little fun, and Columbus has it waiting for you. For art lovers, there is the Columbus Museum of Art and for animal lovers, Columbus Zoo, and Aquarium. For a little nightlife, there is plenty of fun to be found in the Arena District with its many restaurants, bars, and clubs.

Any annual festivals or Columbus events to know?

Summer is the time of festivals in Columbus. In fact, there are so many you'll be hard pressed to enjoy them all. However, you'll want to be sure to hit some of them like the Grove City Wine and Arts Festival in June, and the Creekside Blues & Jazz Festival also in June. In August there's the Breakaway Music Festival, and in July the Ohio State Fair is a great one for the whole family.

Where are the nearby vacation spots?

If you enjoy the arts scene, then the Museum Hotel Cincinnati is perfect for you. This art getaway includes the Contemporary Arts Center and the Aronoff Center for the Arts. For a spa and golf weekend, check out Inn Walden in Aurora, Ohio, and for a trip to a vineyard, there is the Tuscan-inspired Gervasi Vineyard.

Where is the best place to move in Columbus?

There're some great neighborhoods that you should consider when you're looking for apartments in Columbus including Victorian Village, Southside, Brewery, Harrison West, and Bexley. All of these neighborhoods have high livability scores and are within two to four miles from the city center. If you'd rather look for Columbus apartments a little further outside of the city then Gahanna, Dublin, and Powell all make great choices. Regardless of your selection, Columbus is a wonderful city that offers a strong economy and a community that you can feel a part of.

When your city is named after Christopher Columbus, it's safe to assume that proud heritage is ingrained the very culture of residents, and Columbus, Ohio proves that point every day of the year. Once named by Money Magazine as the 8th best large city to live in, Columbus apartments for rent are gaining in popularity among Ohio natives for good reason. Along with the large student population from Ohio State University, the city's economy is based on its major points of commerce - technology, retail, healthcare, insurance and education, making it a growing employment destination as well.

At ApartmentHomeLiving.com it's our goal to help you find your next apartment in Columbus or the surrounding area by featuring the best options for listings of apartments in Columbus with all of the detailed information, high-resolution photos, updated pricing and community info you need to make your apartment search decisions with ease.

No matter what part of town you wish to live in and around the Capitol of Ohio, our Columbus Apartment Living Guide has you covered. Whether you are a student looking to split a 3 bedroom University Area apartment, a young professional looking to live in a luxury apartment in Downtown Columbus or a family who wants to live out in a suburb with great schools, you can find your new home.

Naturally after moving into the perfect place, it's important to discover all of the entertaining options the city has to offer. From music and dancing, theater and movies, museums, galleries and parks, exciting opportunities abound in this great American city. We want to be your guide in demonstrating just how easy finding a fantastic apartment in Columbus, OH can be!

Check out local landmarks such as the Ohio Craft Museum, or hit the Fort Rapids Water Park Resort for some wicked wet wackiness. Columbus residents also enjoy taking trips to Franklin Park, Goodale Park, Whetstone Park of Roses or Schiller Park for hiking, jogging, picnicking and playground fun. Sitting in the gazebos and walking down the walking trail to the area's ponds allow for hours of outdoor enjoyment.

So don't miss out on the opportunity to call a Columbus your home! Whether you are moving across town or from somewhere far away, discover how great living in apartments in this city can be by searching through our listings of Columbus apartments for rent at ApartmentHomeLiving.com today!

Columbus, OH
Population: 892,533

Ranked #14

in US Census Population by City

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Pet Friendly Lifestyle
Columbus, OH

Ranked #2

Among cities in Ohio for Apartment listings with Pet Friendly Amenities

Pet Friendliness Lifestyle Score

3.5
Pet Friendly

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Remember the 3 Rules of Real Estate:
Location, Location, Location!

Explore Columbus, OH Rentals by Map

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Getting Around Columbus, OH

Walk Score®

59 / 100

Somewhat Walkable

Some errands can be accomplished on foot

Bike Score®

57 / 100

Bikeable

Some bike infrastructure

Transit Score®

34 / 100

Some Transit

A few nearby public transportation options

Frequently Asked Questions about Columbus

How much are Studio apartments in Columbus?

There are currently 251 Studio Apartments in Columbus with rent ranges from $300 to $2,742 with an average price of $1,182.

What is the current price range for One Bedroom Columbus Apartments for rent?

Today's rental pricing for One Bedroom Apartments in Columbus ranges from $300 to $9,675 with an average monthly rent of $1,447.

What does renting a Two Bedroom Apartment in Columbus cost?

The monthly rent prices of Two Bedroom Apartments currently available in Columbus range from $300 to $6,127. Today's average rental price for Two Bedrooms here is $1,759.

How expensive are Columbus Three Bedroom Apartments?

There are currently 609 Three Bedroom Apartments listings available in Columbus on ApartmentHomeLiving.com. The pricing ranges from $550 to $7,990 - averaging $2,167 for the location.

Expert Rental Resources

Helpful Apartment Articles, How-To's and Tips

The rental experts at ApartmentHomeLiving.com provide you with top advice, tools, and tips for understanding the leasing process and finding the perfect rental. Here are a few helpful rental and leasing articles from our experts to guide you on your search.

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