Best Student Housing in Columbus, OH 2025-26

Finding a place to live in Columbus doesn’t have to turn into a guessing game. With University Living, you get verified properties only. Most student apartments are close to main university campuses. Getting around is easy too. All thanks to COTA bus routes, shuttles, and bike-friendly streets. 

The housing itself covers what really matters: fast Wi-Fi, affordable laundry, gyms, and quiet study lounges. And when you’re off the clock? You’re steps away from coffee shops, local diners, grocery stores, and even game-day hangouts in the Short North. Don’t wait till the good spots are gone. Book your student housing in Columbus with University Living! 

Columbus has plenty of options, and not every setup works for every student. Here are different types of housings available: 

Purpose-Built Student Housing (PBSA)

These are designed with students in mind. They come furnished, often with utilities included in the rent. And you will also have extras like gyms, lounges, or study rooms. Inside PBSAs, you’ll find different setups: 

• Studios: A self-contained space with kitchen and bathroom. Costs more, but you get full independence. 

• Ensuites: Your own room and bathroom while sharing a kitchen. Balanced, social but still private. 

• Shared Flats: The budget pick. You’ve got your own bedroom but share common areas. They are cheap, social, sometimes messy, but that’s part of the charm.

Private Apartments

Want total freedom? Private apartments give you that. You pick your roommates. Or if you don’t want to do so, that is also fine. It’s more expensive, for sure. But in return, you gain privacy, extra space, and control.

University Halls

Ohio State runs its own halls, mainly for first-year students. You’ll be close to classes and libraries. It’s convenient, but don’t expect the lowest rent, or much privacy. 

Save yourself the headache of random listings. Book your student housing in Columbus with University Living today! 

Columbus has no shortage of student apartments. But some names keep coming up: 

• Peer on 7th 

• The View On High 

• Lane Lofts 

• The Seneca 

• 8th and High 

• 1359 N. 6th Street 

• Birch Creek Flats 

• 70 W. 8th Avenue - E2 

Each of these properties hits a different sweet spot. Whether it’s location, price, or the vibe. Book your student housing in Columbus with University Living today. 

Columbus is not cheap, but you can still find solid budget friendly apartments here: 

• The Abigail 

• The Griff 

• The View on Pavey Square 

• VERVE Columbus 

• Uncommon Columbus 

• Luxe Belle 

• The View on Grant 

Why risk scrolling through random ads or guessing if a property is safe? Book your student housing in Columbus with University Living. You will find verified listings, transparent pricing, and support every step of the way. 

Columbus has a mix of neighborhoods that work well for students. Here are the top areas in city students usually look at: 

Short North: This area has got various galleries, coffee shops, and nightlife.  

• This is close to the university campus. It is perfect if you want a balance of campus and city life. 

• Rent is a bit higher here, but the vibe makes up for it. 

Campus Area: This area literally wraps around Ohio State University.  

• You will find everything from dorm-style halls to private apartments. All of them are within walking or biking distance to campus. 

University District: Always buzzing with activity. Packed with restaurants, cheap eats, and plenty of student housing.  

• Affordable compared to Short North, but still minutes from OSU. 

Victorian Village: This area has got a slower pace compared to the student-heavy areas.  

• Ideal if you want a residential feel but you still stay close to Downtown and campus. 

German Village: It’s not right next to OSU. But it’s perfect for students who want character and a quieter setup. You will still being connected to the city. 

Each neighborhood offers something different. Book your student housing in Columbus with University Living! 

Columbus is kinder to student budgets. All you need is on an average around $1,350 to $2,000 per month to cover living expenses (excluding tuition). How much you actually spend depends a lot on whether you pick a shared flat near OSU or a pricier studio Downtown. Below is the monthly cost breakdown of Columbus city: 

Note: Worried about how much you might spend in Columbus? Use University Living’s Cost of Living Calculator – plug in your rent, food, and lifestyle choices to get a personalized monthly estimate before you move.