Finding off-campus housing near Ohio State University doesn’t have to be stressful. The right neighborhood and apartment can make your daily life easier, help you focus on classes, and give you a great student experience. This guide walks you through popular Columbus neighborhoods for grad and undergrad students. Plus, find out how student moving services from Hercules Moving can make your transition less of a mountain and more of a molehill.
Popular Neighborhoods for Graduate Students in Columbus
Clintonville
Looking for a quiet, leafy area to focus on your studies? Clintonville’s got you covered.
- Close to campus: About 10–15 minutes from OSU by bus, bike, or car, making it easy to get to class quickly.
- Study-friendly vibe: Quiet, green streets create a calm environment for homework or research; stop by Global Gallery Coffee Shop for a coffee and study session.
- Local conveniences: Parks, small grocery stores, and boutique shops are nearby, perfect for quick errands or relaxing after class.
Grandview Heights
If you want a lively, easy commute close to campus, Grandview Heights is a top pick.
- Walkable amenities: Restaurants, shops, and grocery stores are all within easy walking distance, making daily life convenient.
- Close to campus: 10-15 minutes from OSU if you have wheels (bus, bike, or car), living here means more time for classes and less time in traffic.
- Social vibe: A popular hangout for students and young professionals, making it easy to meet people. Try the Grandview Cafe for a local fave.
Short North
Love arts, culture, and nightlife? Short North puts you right in the middle of it all.
- Close to campus: Roughly 10–15 minutes by bike or bus, keeping you close to both downtown and OSU.
- Arts and culture: Galleries, live music, and trendy restaurants are everywhere; North Market is a must-visit for lunch or a weekend hangout.
- Active community: Frequent student events and local meetups make it easy to connect with peers and explore the neighborhood.
Gahanna
Need a quieter, suburban feel? Gahanna offers calm streets and green spaces without sacrificing convenience.
- Close to campus: About 15–20 minutes by car or bus, offering a quieter suburban commute.
- Community amenities: Parks, libraries, and recreation centers are nearby; Creekside Park is perfect for studying outdoors or unwinding after class.
- Affordable options: Many apartments are budget-friendly and spacious, making it easier for students to find a comfortable living situation.
Bexley
Looking for safety, charm, and a close-knit feel? Bexley checks all the boxes.
- Close to campus: Around 10–15 minutes by car or bike, giving you a short, stress-free commute.
- Safe and welcoming: Quiet streets and low traffic create a secure environment; grab a coffee at The Coffee Shop @ The Lion for a local favorite spot.
- Community feel: Parks, historic streets, and local shops foster a tight-knit neighborhood vibe, perfect for students who enjoy a friendly, walkable area.
Apartments Near Ohio State University: What to Look For
From studios and one-bedrooms to shared apartments, students have options to fit different lifestyles. Walking distance to campus saves time and stress, while slightly farther spots can offer more space or quiet. Starting your search early is key to finding the best apartments.
Keep in mind:
- Lease terms: Read your lease carefully to you know your responsibilities, fees, and lease length.
- Safety and walkability: Visit neighborhoods at different times and check local resources.
- Apartment features: Look for in-unit laundry, study-friendly spaces, and reliable internet.
- Distance from campus: Make sure you have multiple commute options to quickly and reliably get to class.
5 Quick Tips for Finding Off-Campus Housing
- Start early: Popular apartments near OSU fill fast. Start looking for new housing near the end of the school year through mid-summer. The closer you get to September, the more competitive the market will be.
- Use multiple sources: Start local – university boards and social media groups are all worth checking. Websites like PadMapper and Apartments.com are great too, but housing is less likely to be priced or geared toward students.
- Visit neighborhoods: Seeing the area in person helps you get a feel for the vibe. Live like a local for a day—try out the commute once or twice to see if it’s doable for you, check out the local grocery store, and walk around to see what the community is like.
- Ask around: Current students often know the best spots and potential issues. If you have friends in an area you’re looking at, see what their take is on it. They may know something you don’t.
- Consider movers: You can only bribe so many people with pizza. Professional student moving services save time, protect your belongings, and reduce stress.
Why Hire Student Moving Services?
Even with the perfect apartment, moving can be a challenge—stairs, elevators, narrow hallways, and limited parking all add stress and valuable time to your move. Here’s how professional student moving services can help:
- Save time and energy: Movers handle heavy furniture, boxes, and large items efficiently.
- Navigate tricky locations: Experienced movers know how to deal with busy streets, apartment complexes, and campus restrictions.
- Protect your belongings: Professional packing and transport reduce the risk of damage.
- Stress-free experience: With movers taking care of logistics, you can focus on settling into your new home and starting the semester strong.
Turning Moving Day into Moving Done With Hercules
Choosing the right off-campus housing in Columbus can make your student life smoother, safer, and more enjoyable. Pick a neighborhood that fits your lifestyle, plan ahead, and lean on student moving services to take the stress out of moving.
Ready to make your move easy? Contact Hercules Movers today for a free, no-obligation estimate and let pros handle the heavy lifting so you can focus on what’s really important: your education.
For more local guides and moving tips, check out our blog, then download our moving checklist to get your move off on the right foot.
